A Student’s Guide to the Cost of Living in Malaysia Vs India

Malaysia is increasingly becoming a popular study destination for international students, particularly from India, thanks to its affordable education, high-quality universities, and multicultural environment.

With its close geographical proximity to India and strong cultural ties, Indian students feel at ease in Malaysia, where English is widely spoken.

Additionally, Malaysia's developing infrastructure, tropical climate, and relatively low cost of living (compared to other Western study destinations) make it an appealing option for higher education.

Yet, it is essential to compare the cost of living in Malaysia vs India to better prepare for the financial aspects of studying abroad.

The Cost of Living in Malaysia Vs India

When comparing the cost of living in Malaysia vs India, Malaysia is generally more expensive.

Based on an article from Expatistan, Malaysia is around 35% more expensive than India overall.

This gap can vary depending on lifestyle choices, housing options, and location within each country.

Cost of Living in Malaysia vs India
Expenses	Malaysia	India
Housing	+72%	Lower
Food	+52%	Lower
Transportation	-2%	Higher
Entertainment	+28%	Comparable

Budget for Indian Students in Malaysia

For Indian students, managing a budget in Malaysia is quite doable with proper planning.

An estimated monthly budget for students in Malaysia is approximately RM 1,500 to RM 2,500 (₹25,000 to ₹43,000).

Cost of Living in Malaysia Vs India

Here's a budget breakdown for an Indian students in Malaysia:

Rent: RM 800 - RM 1,500 (₹14,000 - ₹25,000)
Groceries: RM 300 - RM 600 (₹5,000 - ₹10,500)
Transport: RM 100 - RM 150 (₹1,700 - ₹2,600)
Dining Out & Entertainment: RM 200 - RM 400 (₹3,500 - ₹7,000)

Cost of Living in Malaysia Compared to India: Rent, Food, and Lifestyle

Category	Malaysia	India
Housing	RM 1,200 to RM 2,500 (₹21,000 to ₹43,000) in major cities. RM 800 to RM 1,500 (₹14,000 to ₹25,000) in suburbs.	Generally lower
Food	RM 300 to RM 600 (₹5,000 to ₹10,500).	Comparable cost to Malaysia
Lifestyle (dining out, gym subscriptions, etc.)	RM 15 (₹270) for an inexpensive meal. Gym subscriptions: RM 150 to RM 200 (₹2,600 to ₹3,500).	₹150 for a similar meal. Gym subscription: ₹1,000 to ₹2,500. Lifestyle costs generally lower.
Entertainment	Cinema ticket: RM 15 to RM 20 (₹270 to ₹360)	Cinema ticket: ₹150 to ₹250. Entertainment options are generally cheaper.

Advantages of Living in Malaysia for International Students

When you compare the cost of living in Malaysia vs India, it's important to consider the added benefits of studying in a more developed infrastructure with diverse international exposure.

While slightly more expensive, Malaysia’s living standards can offer a unique balance between affordability and comfort.

Other key factors that contribute to Malaysia’s status as a preferred destination for international students from India include:

Developed Infrastructure: Malaysia embraces modern and well-established infrastructure, including world-class educational institutions, campus facilities, reliable public transportation, and efficient healthcare systems.

This makes it an attractive choice for Indian students seeking a seamless and comfortable learning experience.

Cleanliness and Safety: The country is known for its high standards of cleanliness, especially in urban areas, which enhances the overall living experience for students.

In addition, Malaysia’s focus on maintaining a safe and secure environment makes it an ideal destination for students looking for peace of mind while studying abroad.

Presence of Diverse Communities: Malaysia’s multicultural society, which consists of a harmonious blend of ethnic groups such as Malays, Chinese, Indians, and others, creates a welcoming environment for Indian students.

This diverse setting fosters a sense of belonging and cultural exchange, making international students feel at home while they pursue their studies.

Overall, when comparing the cost of living in Malaysia vs India, it's clear that Malaysia is more expensive, but students still find the country a relatively affordable and student-friendly destination.

Written by Shahd Ashraf

Updated 1 month ago | min read

Shahd Ashraf is a reader, a writer, an English teacher, and a lover of classical language. Her passion for language began when she joined a poetry club in college. Shahd’s writing extends beyond words and yearns to connect with the reader on a meaningful level.