LimavsKuala Lumpur
Overall
đź’°+19.0%
Lima is 19.0%more expensive
Rent
đźŹ+7.1%
Housing is 7.1% higher
Dining
🍽️+14.3%
Restaurants 14.3% pricier
Groceries
đź›’+22.2%
Food shopping 22.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lima, Peru and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lima is more expensive than Kuala Lumpur by approximately 19.0%. 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 Lima are lower than in Kuala Lumpur by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lima's city center costs around PENÂ 2,000, while the same in Kuala Lumpur is approximately MYRÂ 2,500.
Dining out in Lima offers significant savings compared to Kuala Lumpur. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs PENÂ 15 in Lima versus MYRÂ 15 in Kuala Lumpur.
Public transportation in Lima costs similarly, with monthly passes at PENÂ 100 compared to MYRÂ 100 in Kuala Lumpur.
Purchasing power in Kuala Lumpur is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lima.
Grocery shopping in Lima is more affordable by approximately 18%. 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 Lima can expect to spend approximately PENÂ 867 per month (excluding rent), while in Kuala Lumpur, the same lifestyle would cost around MYRÂ 975. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about PENÂ 3,035 monthly in Lima versus MYRÂ 3,413 in Kuala Lumpur. 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
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lima 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 Lima 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
Lima
Kuala Lumpur
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lima more expensive than Kuala Lumpur?
Yes, Lima is approximately 19.0% more expensive than Kuala Lumpur overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lima compared to Kuala Lumpur?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Kuala Lumpur salary when living in Lima. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Kuala Lumpur, you'd need about $59,524 in Lima for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lima and Kuala Lumpur?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 18%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show smaller 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 Lima if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Kuala Lumpur for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lima vs Kuala Lumpur?
In Lima, a single person needs approximately PENÂ 2,067 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about PENÂ 5,235. In Kuala Lumpur, these figures are MYRÂ 2,475 for singles and MYRÂ 6,413 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lima and Kuala Lumpur in 2025 shows notable 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Kuala Lumpur to maintain your lifestyle from Lima
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