Kota Kinabalu, MalaysiaSurabaya, Indonesia
You would need around 46.7% less money in Surabaya, Indonesia to maintain the same standard of living you have in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
Overall Cost of Living
Surabaya, Indonesia is cheaper than Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
1-Bed Rent (City Center)
Groceries (Monthly)
Average Net Salary
Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia to Surabaya, Indonesia? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Surabaya, Indonesia is 46.7% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Surabaya, Indonesia's center costs around 283 USD, which is a staggering 34.6% less than in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. If you are retaining a remote income, the Remote Wealth team ranks this as a highly strategic move for wealth accumulation.
Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team
Our cost of living data for Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia and Surabaya, Indonesia is compiled using our rigorous verification methodology. We combine millions of data points from reliable sources to ensure you get the most accurate financial comparison for your relocation.
Read more about our team →Salary Comparator
Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Surabaya, Indonesia to maintain your current lifestyle in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
You need in Surabaya, Indonesia
314 USD
Geo-Arbitrage FIRE
Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.
By moving from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia to Surabaya, Indonesia and investing the 47% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 7.0 years earlier.
Budget Simulator
Instantly adapt your Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia budget to local Surabaya, Indonesia prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.
Investment Planner
You save 150 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Surabaya, Indonesia.
Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~25,200 USD in 10 years.