Kuala LumpurvsCairo
Overall
💰-30.0%
Kuala Lumpur is 30.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-50.0%
Housing is 50.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-25.0%
Restaurants 25.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-41.8%
Food shopping 41.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Cairo, Egypt reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Kuala Lumpur is more affordable than Cairo by approximately 30.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Kuala Lumpur are higher than in Cairo by 100%. A one-bedroom apartment in Kuala Lumpur's city center costs around MYR 2,500, while the same in Cairo is approximately EGP 10,000.
Dining out in Kuala Lumpur is notably more expensive compared to Cairo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MYR 15 in Kuala Lumpur versus EGP 150 in Cairo.
Public transportation in Kuala Lumpur is more affordable, with monthly passes at MYR 100 compared to EGP 200 in Cairo.
Purchasing power in Kuala Lumpur is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cairo.
Grocery shopping in Kuala Lumpur is more expensive by approximately 72%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Kuala Lumpur can expect to spend approximately MYR 975 per month (excluding rent), while in Cairo, the same lifestyle would cost around EGP 4,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MYR 3,413 monthly in Kuala Lumpur versus EGP 17,430 in Cairo. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Cairo to Kuala Lumpur, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Kuala Lumpur to Cairo requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Kuala Lumpur
Cairo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kuala Lumpur more expensive than Cairo?
No, Kuala Lumpur is approximately 30.0% cheaper than Cairo. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Kuala Lumpur compared to Cairo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 77% of your Cairo salary when living in Kuala Lumpur. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cairo, you'd need about $38,462 in Kuala Lumpur for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Kuala Lumpur and Cairo?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 100%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Kuala Lumpur offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Kuala Lumpur provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Kuala Lumpur if you prioritize earning potential, or Cairo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Kuala Lumpur vs Cairo?
In Kuala Lumpur, a single person needs approximately MYR 2,475 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about MYR 6,413. In Cairo, these figures are EGP 10,980 for singles and EGP 29,430 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Kuala Lumpur and Cairo in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Cairo to maintain your lifestyle from Kuala Lumpur
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