Living Well in Penang: How I Built a Better Life for Under $2,700 a Month

Malaysia was never part of some grand life plan. But if I’ve learned anything from my years of living abroad, it’s that the best adventures happen when you let go of the map.

For 15 years, I worked internationally, spanning 10 countries, with my last posting at Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar in Malaysia. The job ended, but Malaysia never left me. The small-town charm, the warmth of the people, and the simplicity of life here stuck with me long after I left.

When I returned to the US during the pandemic, I felt like a foreigner in my own country. The fast pace, the polarization, and the ever-growing stress weighed on me. I knew then that I needed to get back to the life I had in Malaysia.

This time, I had my sights set on Penang. I had never been, but something told me it was exactly where I needed to be. I packed my life into a single duffel bag, a carry-on, and a backpack, bought a one-way ticket, and stepped into my next great adventure.

Discovering Penang: A Place That Feels Like Home

Penang’s vibrant street art brings the city to life.|©Stephen Havrilla

Penang is a fascinating blend of history, modern convenience, and diverse culture. While many expats settle in George Town, with its vibrant street food and colonial charm, I chose to live in Bayan Lepas, a more local area close to Queensbay Mall.

My fully furnished two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo on the 20th floor offers sweeping views of the Straits of Malacca, an infinity pool, a fitness center, and all the amenities you’d expect from a five-star resort—at a fraction of what it would cost in the US.

I spend my days exploring the historic streets of George Town, where colorful Chinese shophouses and colonial architecture tell stories of centuries past. On Armenian Street, murals decorate the old walls, depicting daily life as it once was. A stroll through Chew Jetty offers a glimpse into the indigenous Chinese communities who built their homes on stilts above the water. And when I need a change of pace, I hike through the lush trails of Kek Lok Si Temple, often spotting dusky leaf monkeys along the way.

Living Well for Less

Stephen’s stylish apartment in Bayan Lepas.|©Stephen Havrilla

Life in Malaysia is remarkably affordable. My monthly budget, covering rent, groceries, entertainment, and healthcare, runs between $2,000 and $2,700. And that figure means rarely denying myself anything, as well as socializing outside my home with friends several times a week.

Here’s what that gets me:

• Rent: $855 for a luxury two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo.

• Groceries: $450-$500 per month.

• Electricity: $25-$30 per month.

• Entertainment: $400-$500 per month.

• Mobile Phone: $8 for unlimited data, calls, and texts.

• Dining Out: A meal at a local hawker stall costs $10-$20 for two people, while a restaurant dinner, including wine or a bucket of beer, runs $30-$50.

• Transportation: Grab rides (Malaysia’s version of Uber) cost between $2-$5 per trip.

Even high-end dining is accessible. Michelin-starred restaurants charge $75-$150 for two, far less than you’d pay in the US. The only costly indulgences are alcohol and imported goods, but overall, the quality of life here is much higher for much less.

Healthcare in Malaysia is exceptional and affordable. A comparable insurance plan in the US. would have cost me $12,000-$15,000 annually, but I secured a global medical insurance plan—including coverage in the US—for just $4,000 per year. As a resident, I also have access to Malaysia’s local healthcare system, which I plan to supplement with a private policy.

Life in Penang: Busy But Slow-Paced

A glimpse of Penang’s heritage streets, where old meets new.|©Stephen Havrilla

One of the most pleasant surprises about moving to Penang has been the thriving expat community. I joined Internations and the Penang Expat Community WhatsApp group, where I quickly found my people. Weekly activities include hiking in Penang Hills, playing pickleball at Gurney Plaza, and gathering for the Penang Curry Club’s legendary dinner nights.

There’s no shortage of things to do, and I find myself busier than I ever was in the US—except now, my days are filled with things I actually enjoy.

My typical day starts around 7 am in the morning with an espresso on my balcony, watching the sunrise over the Straits of Malacca and the local fisherman heading out for their day's catch. It’s so peaceful and a great way to start my mornings.

I see so many people getting their day started by exercising, walking, and jogging below by the seaside; this inspires me to get active and get ready for my daily walk, which takes me by the seaside and finishing up at the local hawker for some breakfast of Curry Mee, Dim Sum or the local favorite Char Kuey Teow and a cup of Kopi.

I then head home for a relaxing swim in the infinite pool while visiting with the local residents and reading a good book. When it’s time for lunch, I often cook at home and relax for the rest of the day on my balcony, enjoying the sea breeze.

I also like the many festivals and open markets that you find in the local neighborhoods selling local foods and handicrafts. These usually are more active on the weekends and are a good place to take in the local culture and try new foods.

Life here moves at a slower pace, one that I’ve fully embraced.

If you’re on the fence about making the move, my advice is simple: Be adventurous and take the leap.

Do your research, but don’t overthink it. Before you go, ensure you have:

• Insurance coverage that suits your needs.

• Enough funds to cover at least two months’ rent plus agent fees if leasing a condo.

• A sense of where you want to live—expat-heavy areas vs. local communities, and access to amenities that matter to you.

• Connections in local Facebook and WhatsApp groups to get insights and advice before arriving.

Malaysia, and especially Penang, has a way of welcoming those who are open to embracing its culture and pace of life. If you’re looking for a place that offers safety, affordability, and an incredible quality of life, this might just be the home you didn’t know you were looking for.