I’ve called Kuala Lumpur home for over a decade, and apparently, I’m not the only one who loves it. A recent survey ranked KL as the third most livable city in Asia and eighth globally—by actual expats, not just analysts sitting in an office somewhere. If you’re thinking of making the move, let’s break down what’s great (and not so great) about living here.
The Pros
- Tax-Friendly Living
One of the biggest reasons many expats choose Malaysia is its tax system. If you’re making money inside the country, you’ll pay tax—fair enough. But if your income comes from overseas? Malaysia doesn’t tax that at all. This is a huge plus if you’re running an online business or earning remotely. There’s always talk of changing this, but for now, it’s still a major benefit. - Year-Round Warm Weather
If you love the sun, Kuala Lumpur won’t disappoint. It’s hot and humid, sure, but at least it’s consistent. You won’t get any surprise cold snaps, and if you plan around the daily afternoon rain during the monsoon season, you’re golden. - Affordable Lifestyle
Whether you’re balling on a budget or living it up, KL has something for you. You can have a great meal for just a few bucks at a hawker center, or splurge on fine dining with champagne at a rooftop restaurant. Housing is also a steal compared to other major Asian cities—$1,000 a month can get you a spacious, modern apartment in a prime location. - Great Travel Hub
With AirAsia based in KL, flights around Asia are ridiculously cheap. Whether you’re jetting off to Japan, Bali, or even as far as Hawaii, travel options are abundant and affordable. - Multicultural Vibes & Modern Conveniences
Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, which means incredible food, festivals, and a unique mix of traditions. Plus, the city has all the modern conveniences—Western restaurants, international supermarkets, solid banking, and online shopping that’s almost as good as Amazon.
The Cons
- The Time Zone Struggle
If you’re working with people in the U.S. or Europe, get ready for some late nights or early mornings. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it takes some adjusting. - Less Cultural Attractions
KL has its fair share of temples and historical sites, but compared to places like Bangkok or Hanoi, there’s less of a deep cultural scene. It’s more of a great place to live than a must-visit tourist destination. - Making Local Friends Can Take Time
Many expats find it a bit challenging to integrate beyond the expat bubble. While locals are friendly, business and social circles often stick within their own communities, especially among Malaysian Chinese business owners who primarily operate in Mandarin. - The Dating Scene Is… Meh
If you’re single and looking, you might hear mixed reviews about KL’s dating scene. Some people love it, others say it’s tough. Like anywhere, it really depends on what you’re looking for. - Air Pollution & Traffic
KL’s air quality isn’t horrible, but during certain seasons—especially when forest fires in Indonesia cause haze—it can get bad. Traffic can also be a nightmare during peak hours, though public transport options are improving.
Final Thoughts
For expats who earn in USD, run remote businesses, or just want a high-quality lifestyle without breaking the bank, Kuala Lumpur is an underrated gem. If you can deal with the heat, occasional haze, and time zone quirks, you’ll get tax benefits, great food, affordable living, and a solid travel hub.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely—if you’re the kind of person who values convenience, affordability, and a laid-back, diverse city vibe.