Kuala LumpurvsCalgary
Overall
💰+44.0%
Kuala Lumpur is 44.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+66.7%
Housing is 66.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+87.5%
Restaurants 87.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+45.5%
Food shopping 45.5% more
Comparing the cost of living between Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Kuala Lumpur is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 44.0%. 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 lower than in Calgary by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Kuala Lumpur's city center costs around MYR 2,500, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Kuala Lumpur offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MYR 15 in Kuala Lumpur versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Kuala Lumpur is more affordable, with monthly passes at MYR 100 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Kuala Lumpur.
Grocery shopping in Kuala Lumpur is more affordable by approximately 31%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower 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 Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MYR 3,413 monthly in Kuala Lumpur versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. 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 Kuala Lumpur to Calgary, 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 Calgary to Kuala Lumpur 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
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kuala Lumpur more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Kuala Lumpur is approximately 44.0% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Kuala Lumpur compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Calgary salary when living in Kuala Lumpur. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $72,000 in Kuala Lumpur for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Kuala Lumpur and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 47%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Kuala Lumpur if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Kuala Lumpur vs Calgary?
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 Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Kuala Lumpur and Calgary 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 Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Kuala Lumpur
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