BEST AREAS TO LIVE FOR EXPATS IN KL [KUALA LUMPUR]

Which are the most popular areas to live for expats in Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur (or “KL” as everyone calls it) is a vibrant city in Malaysia. It is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and languages, making it an attractive destination for expatriates.

With its mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture, lush green parks, bustling markets, and a wide array of food options, KL offers a unique living experience.

We now call KL our home for over a year. During that time we had the chance to explore most areas in KL! We compiled this guide to help you decide on the best areas to live in KL based on your situation!

Most Popular Areas to Live for Expats in KL

1. KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Center

This is where we decided to settle. Slightly more expensive than other areas in KL, here the benefit is that you can walk pretty much anywhere. From the beautiful KLCC Park perfect for a walk or run at night, to the hectic Bukit Bintang area full of bars, restaurants and rooftops.

It is also an area very well served by public transport (Monorail, LRT, bus).

In KLCC, you will mainly find a fully equipped Condo, with a pool, a gym etc. As we said before, prices tend to be on the higher end here with less square footage…

Generally, KLCC is perfect for couples and first-timers in KL! We, for sure, love it here.

READ: VISIT THE BEAUTIFUL KLCC PARK IN KL

2. Ampang

Ampang is the Embassies district! France, Russia, UK, China, etc. this area is therefore quite safe!

Many expats live here, due to the easy access to KLCC and the many options in terms of accommodations which are more affordable than KLCC.

Ampang is a quieter, more residential, and very green neighborhood. However, being without a car in this neighborhood can be a bit tricky; public transportation is located only on Jalan Ampang the main street.

READ: BEST BRUNCH AND CAFES IN KL

3. Bangsar

Located southwest of Kuala Lumpur, on top of a hill, Bangsar is another popular neighborhood for expats!

The area has many restaurants, shops, and shopping centers. Bangsar’s advantage lies in its varied choice of accommodation, from condominium apartments to houses in guarded residences, or independent villas.

There is a very high concentration of Expats in Bangsar. It is also well-served by Public Transportation.

READ: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BANGSAR

4. Mont Kiara

This is the international school district. Hence, you will find many expats in Mont Kiara! It’s probably THE most popular location for expats in the city.

Located northwest of Kuala Lumpur, you will find many modern accommodations here.

There are also numerous restaurants, bars and shopping centers, gyms, yoga studios all nestled between the residential towers.

Here, however, there are fewer large green spaces and the traffic can be quite bad during school and office hours.

READ: 10 BEST YOGA STUDIOS IN KL

5. Damansara Heights / Bukit Damansara

It is by definition the relatively upscale district of Kuala Lumpur. Quiet and green, to the west of the capital, it is mainly made up of individual houses with gardens or secure residences.

There are a few shops and restaurants, however, the area is rather quiet and peaceful.

Like many other places on the outskirts of the capital, you will not find easy access to public transport there. So having a car would be quite essential.

Parts of Damansara are also more multicultural, showcasing the true diversity of Malaysia!

READ: MOST INCREDIBLE ROOFTOPS IN KL

6. Desa Park City

Desa Park City is a dynamic neighborhood located in the northwest of Kuala Lumpur.

Organized around a park and a lake, it conveys a true concept of community. There are many public spaces and neighborhood life there. It is located 35 minutes from the city center, and around 15 minutes from Mont Kiara and Damansara.

The advantages here are the greenery, the amenities (shops, restaurants, etc.), and for some the proximity to the international school or the Sime Darby hospital.

READ: 15 FUN FACTS ABOUT MALAYSIA

Type of Accommodations

Condominium

For expats the most common choice are Condominium. This high-rise building offers the most convenience, with a swimming pool, gym, and sometimes a lot more amenities such as a sauna, karaoke room, tennis court, and basketball field!

Private Houses/Bungalows

If your budget allows, it can also be common for expats to choose a private house/villa/bungalow in KL. There are also many options in the city. Those places are usually very spacious and come with a garden and quite often a pool too.

Of course, expect to pay a lot more for it.

Semi-detached Houses

Those types of houses are usually side by side in a full row. Some are in secure housing estates, with guards and everything. Those type of houses are usually less common for expats, who would rather opt for a complete detached house or condominium in the vast majority.

The best place to look for accommodation in Malaysia is via property guru.

Housing Cost

First of all, we highly recommend working with a real estate agent. In Malaysia, the property owner pays for your agent’s commission, not you! Hence, why not making use of it 🙂

Also, negotiate your rent through your real estate agent! In KL there is a surplus of accommodations right now, hence, you can easily get a better deal!

Now, let’s talk cost:

Prices will vary depending on your location! From KLCC to Bangsar or Mont Kiara prices may vary greatly!

For a brand new condo in KLCC with 2 bedrooms, it costs anywhere from RM3,500 RM to RM5,000 per month. In comparison in Bangsar, you can probably get a 3 bedroom flat for that price.

For a Detached House with a Pool, the prices will probably start at around RM10,000.

Bear in mind that the quality of the build + a very rough climate (super hot and humid) mean that accommodations age super fast in Malaysia. Hence, look for a rather new place to avoid any issues during your tenancy.

Getting a helper

If you’ve never lived in Asia, you might find this strange, but most expat families have a full-time helper (“Maid”) living with them.

The helper will help you cook, clean your home, take care of the kids etc. This site may help you find a helper.

But usually, a lot is word of mouth from 1 expat family to another.

ALSO READ: PROS & CONS OF LIVING IN MALAYSIA

In Conclusion about the best areas to live for expats in KL

Kuala Lumpur is a city that caters to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.

Whether you’re looking for the hustle and bustle of city life or a more laid-back community vibe, there’s a neighborhood in KL that will make you feel at home.

By considering factors like proximity to work, schools, and lifestyle preferences, expats can find the perfect area in Kuala Lumpur to enjoy the best of what this dynamic city has to offer.

We hope you found this post about the best areas to live for expats in KL useful. Feel free to leave a comment below 🙂

BEST AREAS TO LIVE FOR EXPATS IN KL [KUALA LUMPUR]