Cost of Living in Indonesia: Updated Prices, Comparison with Other Countries

If you are considering relocating to Indonesia for higher education, it’s essential to understand the cost of living in Indonesia to manage your budget and ensure a comfortable studying experience. The cost of living in Indonesia varies depending on the specific region you intend to visit, as well as whether you choose to stay in rural or urban areas.

In general, Indonesia is recognized as a country with a comparatively affordable cost of living when compared to numerous Western, European and Southeast Asian countries. This blog outlines the cost of living in Indonesia and a detailed overview to help you make an informed decision before moving to Indonesia. Keep reading to find out more about what is the cost of living in Indonesia.

Cost of Living in Indonesia

The cost of living in Indonesia depends on what part of this country you are visiting. But generally, the average cost of living in Indonesia for a single person is approximately IDR 7,274,845 per month, without rent according to Numbeo Data. If we consider rental costs, the rent for a one-room apartment ranges from IDR 2,783,883 to IDR 10,000,000 per month. Food expenses are about IDR 3404757 per month, and transportation costs are around IDR 177,500 per month.

The overall cost of living in Indonesia can vary based on the standard of living, type of accommodation, food preferences, and personal spending habits. All these costs play a significant role in determining the overall cost of living costs. For your reference we have given a detailed overview that provides a clearer picture before moving to Indonesia, it will help you in effective financial planning.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Cambodia: A Guide on Expected Expenses

Costs of Accommodation in Indonesia 

In Indonesia, rental rates for houses vary from IDR 2,783,883 per month to IDR 10,000,000 per month, reflecting the wide range of options available. Compared to many other countries, rental prices in Indonesia are quite affordable and these costs can vary by location and type of apartment.

Housing expenses constitute a major part of the overall cost of living in Indonesia. When budgeting for your stay, it’s essential to factor in these costs. To aid your planning, we’ve compiled average cost data for various flats both inside and outside the city centre.

Apartment and location	Approx Cost
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre	IDR 4742485
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre	IDR 2783883
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre	IDR 12966608
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre	IDR 7216885

Cost of Dining in Indonesia

One of the best parts of Indonesia is its cuisine. The country is known for its street food and offers a wide range of traditional Indonesian and Southeast Asian dishes. There are also numerous excellent restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines. The monthly cost of food in Indonesia is around IDR 3404757.

For students, eating out regularly can affect their budget for the cost of living in Indonesia. Consequently, cooking at home is often a more economical choice. However, the cost of eating out varies based on the type of restaurant, the cuisine, the number of diners, and the location. Here is an approximate estimate of the price of food at restaurants in Indonesia you can expect: 

Meal Type	Approx Cost
A simple meal at an inexpensive restaurant	IDR 30,000
A three-course meal mid-range restaurant for two individuals	IDR 250,000
McDonald’s Combo Meal	IDR 50,000
Cappuccino (regular)	IDR 31,404

Cost of Grocery in Indonesia

If you wish to cook at home, then you are in luck because fruit, vegetables, meat, and poultry are very affordable.  Grocery prices can vary depending on the quality and quantity of the products, as well as the location and availability of the store.

In Indonesia, grocery costs will not impact that much the overall cost of living in Indonesia. Below is a table providing an overview of the average grocery expenses in Indonesia:

Grocery Item	Approx Cost
Apples (1kg)	IDR 42379
Banana (1kg)	IDR 22508.41
Oranges (1kg)	IDR 29424.69
Milk (regular), (1 liter)	IDR 20339.83
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)	IDR 18224.43
Rice (white), (1kg)	IDR 13952.7
Eggs (regular) (12)	IDR 25628.41
Local Cheese (1kg)	IDR 121577.79
Tomato (1kg)	IDR 20095.8
Potato (1kg)	IDR 20805.38
Onion (1kg)	IDR 34161.83
Lettuce (1 head)	IDR 13865.3
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	IDR 6983.45

Also Read: Cost of Living in Taiwan: A Guide on Expected Expenses

Cost of Utilities in Indonesia

For a one-bedroom apartment in Indonesia, monthly utility costs are typically around IDR 1,052,403. However, this amount may vary depending on the type of services used and the size of the apartment. Utility services in Indonesia include electricity, water, heating, internet and waste management. Understanding the costs associated with these utilities can help students manage their monthly expenses more effectively.

It is important to take utility expenses into account when calculating the total cost of living in Indonesia, as they can have a significant impact on your budget. Below is an overview of average utility expenditure in Indonesia:

Utility Type	Approx. Cost
The monthly cost for an apartment (Heating, Cooling, Electricity, Garbage, etc.)	IDR 1,052,403.06
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data	IDR 74,714.05
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)	IDR 413,633.06

Cost of Transportation in Indonesia

Indonesia boasts excellent transportation infrastructure, encompassing four distinct railway networks along with numerous ports, and well-maintained roads, making a total of 673 of them.  As a result, it is generally effortless to locate suitable means of transportation such as buses, ferries, taxis, trains, or rental cars to reach your desired destination.

As a student, evaluating transportation costs in Indonesia is crucial, as commuting to and from college will be a regular part of your routine. Transportation expenses can significantly impact your overall cost of living in Indonesia. To help you estimate your transportation budget, we’ve provided a table with average transportation costs below. Please have a look:

Mode of Transport	Approx Cost
Monthly Pass (Local bus)	IDR 177,500
One-way Ticket (Local bus)	IDR 5,000
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)	IDR 9,000
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)	IDR 5,000
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)	IDR 50,000
Gasoline (1 liter)	IDR 13,460

Cost of Living in Indonesia Compared to Other Countries

The cost of living in Indonesia is very affordable compared to many other countries. It is considerably lower than in developed nations such as the Philippines, Malaysia, the US, Thailand, South Korea, and the UK. This makes Indonesia an attractive option for students and expatriates seeking a balance of quality living, and education at reasonable expenses.

So to give you an idea of ​​how the cost of living in Indonesia compares to other countries like the Philippines, Malaysia, the US, Thailand, South Korea, and the UK. We’ve given the cost of living in other countries and cities. Please have a look:

Cost of Living City Wise	Average Cost of living (including rent)	Comparison with Cost of Living in Indonesia
Cost of Living in the Philippines	IDR 8721941	Higher than Indonesia
Cost of Living in Malaysia	IDR 7905645	Higher than Indonesia
Cost of Living in the US	IDR 18974064	Higher than Indonesia
Cost of Living in Thailand	IDR 9187126	Higher than Indonesia
Cost of Living in South Korea	IDR 16617475	Higher than Indonesia
Cost of living in the UK	IDR 17010815	Higher than Indonesia

By understanding these comparisons, you can better plan your budget and make an informed decision about living in Indonesia.

Average Tuition Fees in Indonesia

The average tuition fees for international students in Indonesia range from IDR 11337550 to IDR 98798650 per year. The tuition fees will vary depending on the institution and level of study. If you choose to study for a medical degree, you can expect your tuition fees to be higher than this.

By doing careful financial planning, students can maximize their opportunities to obtain a high-quality education from their desired university or college at an affordable price. It is advisable to check for financial aid or scholarships on the official websites of the universities. Below is a table summarizing the tuition fees at universities in Indonesia:

University Name		Average Annual Fee
Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI)		IDR 11337550 – IDR 29153700
Universitas Hasanuddin (UNHAS)		IDR 11337550 – IDR 32393000
Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS)		IDR 11337550 – IDR 32393000
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM)		IDR 12957200 – IDR 40491250
Universitas Brawijaya (UB)		IDR 12957200 – IDR 37251950
Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP)		IDR 12957200 – IDR 35632300
Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR)		IDR 14576850 – IDR 38871600
Universitas Indonesia (UI)		IDR 16196500 – IDR 48589500
Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB)		IDR 19435800 – IDR 56687750
Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB)		IDR 16196500 – IDR 45350200

Why Choose Indonesia to Study Abroad?

Indonesia presents an excellent opportunity for international students seeking a quality education at an affordable cost of living. The universities in the country follow the conventional three-tiered degree system—bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral—and also offer Associate degrees. The country offers a rich blend of delectable cuisine, captivating landmarks, and hospitable locals, making it an ideal destination.  

Apart from an affordable cost of living in Indonesia, here are some of the reasons why Indonesia can be an ideal destination for studying abroad:

• Across Indonesia, you’ll find a wide array of public and private higher education institutions, all overseen by the Ministry of Education and Culture. 
• Since gaining independence in 1945, the education sector in Indonesia has witnessed remarkable growth.
• Notably, four Indonesian universities, namely Universitas Indonesia, Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Gadjah Mada University, and Airlangga University, are listed among the top 500 universities in the QS World University Rankings.  
• The enrollment of approximately 6,000 international students at Indonesian universities signifies its popularity as a study destination. 
• Many programs are taught in English or other languages, accommodating those who are not proficient in Indonesian. Nevertheless, studying in Indonesia provides a fantastic opportunity to acquire another language, which enhances the appeal of your CV/resume.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Hong Kong: A Guide on Expected Expenses

Things to Know When Moving to Indonesia

Apart from getting an understanding of the cost of living in Indonesia. This country is often preferred by tourists, and students due to numerous reasons, which include the incredible natural beauty it offers. The country is home to some of the most stunning beaches, mountains, and forests. Whether you enjoy hiking, surfing, or just soaking up the sun, Indonesia has something to offer everyone. 

While this nation is among the most preferred destinations, you still need to keep a few things in mind before you go there. So, here are some of the things:

Language 

The official language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia. While English is spoken in many tourist areas and by some locals, learning basic Indonesian phrases can greatly enhance your experience and help with daily interactions.  

Cultural Diversity

Indonesia is a diverse country with various ethnicities, religions, and cultural traditions. Respect and embrace the local customs, traditions, and beliefs. Familiarize yourself with the etiquette, greetings, and gestures specific to Indonesian culture.  

Cost of Living

Major cities like Jakarta and Bali may have higher living expenses compared to smaller towns or rural areas. Consider factors such as housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and entertainment.  

Climate

Indonesia has a tropical climate with high humidity and varying weather patterns. Prepare for hot and humid conditions, as well as rainy seasons in certain regions. Pack appropriate clothing, including lightweight and breathable fabrics, as well as rain gear.  

Expatriate Communities 

Connect with expatriate communities and forums online or on social media platforms. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and support during your transition to Indonesia.  

Leisure and Recreation 

Indonesia offers diverse recreational opportunities, including stunning natural landscapes, cultural sites, and outdoor activities. Take advantage of exploring the country’s beautiful beaches, national parks, and historical landmarks.

Relevant Reads:

Cost of Living in Seychelles: A Comprehensive Guide on Expenses	Cost of Living in Beijing: A Comprehensive Guide on Beijing’s Expense
Cost of Living in Malaysia: A Complete Guide on Expenses	Cost of Living in Seoul: A Comprehensive Guide on Seoul’s Expense
Cost of Living in China: A Comprehensive Guide on China’s Expenses	Cost of Living in Taipei: A Comprehensive Guide on Taipei’s Expense

FAQs on Cost of Living in Indonesia

So, this was all about the cost of living in Indonesia. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.