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Calculate Your Finances in Penang

Enter your gross monthly salary to see net pay, affordable neighborhoods, and savings

MYR/month

Free calculator with 2026 tax rates. No data stored.

Cost of Living in Penang, Malaysia

Island state known for heritage and food. Growing tech hub (Silicon Island), UNESCO old town. Digital nomad favorite.

Currency
MYR (RM)
English Level
Good
Healthcare
Public + Private

Rental Prices in Penang

1-Bedroom Apartment
RM1,500 - RM3,100
per month
2-Bedroom Apartment
RM2,300 - RM4,800
per month

* Prices shown are second-hand rental market rates, typical for expats.4 neighborhoods tracked. Source: Official government housing statistics.

Monthly Living Costs

Groceries
RM650
Transport
RM150
Utilities
RM350
Dining Out
RM400

Utility costs based on Eurostat Energy Statistics.

Popular Neighborhoods

George Town Central
UNESCO heritage zone. Colonial architecture, street art, street food. Walkable historic core.
0 min walk•RM1,500+/mo
Gurney Drive
Seafront promenade area. Upscale condos, hawker food, malls. Popular with expats.
10 min car•RM1,900+/mo
Tanjung Tokong
North coast suburb. Straits Quay marina, newer condos, beach access. Growing expat area.
15 min car•RM1,700+/mo
Batu Ferringhi
Beach resort area. Hotels, night market, water sports. Relaxed vacation vibe.
30 min car•RM1,500+/mo

Work Visa

Employment Pass for professionals (min RM5,000/month). DE Rantau digital nomad visa.

Processing: 2-4 weeks

Relocation Costs

Usually 2 months deposit + 0.5 month utility deposit. Agent fee varies.

Typical deposit: 2 months rent

Enter your salary above to see a personalized breakdown of your finances in Penang

Our calculator shows net income after taxes, affordable neighborhoods, and savings potential

Data last updated: January 2026•View methodology

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Guides for Penang

  • Moving Abroad Checklist: Everything You Need to DoThe complete checklist for relocating internationally - from 6 months before to your first week abroad. Documents, finances, housing, and more.
    Planning14 min read
View all guides →

Explore similar cities

More in Malaysia

Kuala LumpurCapital and economic center
Avg. 1BR: RM3,563/mo
Johor BahruSouthern gateway city bordering Singapore
Avg. 1BR: RM1,617/mo

Similar cost of living

MunichBavaria's capital
Avg. 1BR: €1,744/mo
LondonGlobal financial and tech hub
Avg. 1BR: £2,111/mo

Frequently Asked Questions about Penang

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See what your salary really means before you move. Net pay, rent, and savings across 32 countries.

Updated Jan 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Jan 2026 rent data