If you're planning to move to Indonesia in 2026, here's what things cost
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €320 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €480 | For families |
| Groceries | €85 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €18 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €55 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €4 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €510 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €295/month |
| Minimum Wage | €280/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €-25/month |
With an average salary of €295 and rent of €320, approximately 108% of income goes to housing.
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Cost Indices (vs New York City = 100)
| Index | Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | 26.1 | Significantly cheaper NYC |
| Rent | 9.1 | Much cheaper NYC |
| Groceries | 33.6 | Cheaper NYC |
| Restaurant Prices | 15.3 | Cheaper NYC |
| Local Purchasing Power | 29.3 | Lower than NYC |
Money-Saving Tips
- Shop at local markets: Fresh produce is typically 20-40% cheaper than supermarkets
- Cook at home: Eating in saves 60-70% compared to dining out
- Use public transport: Monthly passes are much cheaper than car ownership
- Live outside the centre: Suburbs offer 20-40% lower rent with reasonable commutes
- Compare utilities: Switch providers for electricity and internet to get better deals
- Student discounts: Available for under-26s on transport, museums, and cultural events
Salary by Sector
| Sector | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| It | €5,000 | €8,000 | €15,000 |
| Retail | €3,000 | €4,000 | €6,000 |
| Finance | €8,500 | €12,000 | €17,000 |
| Education | €4,500 | €6,500 | €9,000 |
| Healthcare | €3,000 | €5,000 | €8,000 |
| Engineering | €7,500 | €11,000 | €15,000 |
| Hospitality | €3,500 | €5,000 | €6,500 |
| Construction | €5,000 | €7,000 | €10,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Indonesia:
- Many of the expatriates living in Indonesia prefer renting accommodation owing to the generally limited duration of their stay and the current laws in force. The country has a vibrant rental market, and there is accommodation for all types of needs. It is also possible to buy land and a residence on a lease for up to 80 years.
- Under the new legislation, expatriates can purchase land or a house under the Right of Use category for a period not exceeding 30 years. After the expiration of the initial period, it is possible to renew the right of use contract twice, the first time for the same period of 30 years and the second time for 20 years. If you choose this option, you will be renting a property in Indonesia for a maximum of 80 years.
- The prices quoted (such as $250 etc) are outdated. Prices at those must be in not so nice areas or buildings. In addition, do you really want to live in an apartment when emergency services are non existent (ie fire departments). Good luck if there’s a fire and you’re on High floor. I stick with a house, thank you.
- Make sure that your future home is equipped with a circuit breaker provided by the authorities. While such a device is inexpensive, many landlords will choose not to install it. In that case, it is strongly advised to avoid renting the unit, as this could mean that the electricity might be coming from an illegal source.
- The prices quoted (such as $250 etc) are outdated. Prices at those must be in not so nice areas or buildings. In addition, do you really want to live in an apartment when emergency services are non existent (ie fire departments). Good luck if there’s a fire and you’re on High floor. I stick with a house, thank you.
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are utilities in Indonesia?
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost approximately €55. Internet typically adds another €20-50/month. In colder climates, heating can significantly increase winter bills.
How much does dining out cost in Indonesia?
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately €4. The restaurant price index is 15.3/100 compared to New York City. Budget €120 per month if you eat out regularly.
Can I live comfortably on a remote worker salary in Indonesia?
With a monthly budget of approximately €510, a remote salary of €2,000-3,000/month would provide a very comfortable lifestyle. Research specific cities for the most accurate picture.
What is the cheapest city to live in Indonesia?
Cost of living varies significantly within Indonesia. Smaller cities and rural areas are generally 20-40% cheaper than the capital. The national average rent for a 1BR is €320, but you can find significantly lower prices outside major urban areas. Research specific cities before deciding.
How much does rent cost in Indonesia?
A 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs approximately €320/month. A 3-bedroom costs approximately €480/month. The rent index is 9.1/100 compared to NYC.
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