Rewire Abroad Logo

Karawang, Indonesia
Capital City

Follows Indonesia Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$503
Retiree Score
90.0
Safety Index
—
Healthcare
18 facilities

Living in Karawang means settling into a practical, industrial city with a focus on manufacturing and agriculture. The city’s proximity to Jakarta—just 32 miles east—makes it a commuter hub for those working in the capital but seeking cheaper housing. Rent here is dirt cheap, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing under $75 a month, but don’t expect luxury amenities or a bustling expat scene.

The city is split into West and East Karawang, with the west side being more developed due to its industrial zones. Flooding is a recurring issue, especially during the rainy season—March 2010 saw severe floods that displaced thousands. If you’re considering Karawang, factor in the need for flood insurance and higher-ground housing. This city is best for budget-conscious expats who don’t mind a no-frills lifestyle and are okay with being a bit isolated from Jakarta’s urban buzz.

Can I afford Karawang?

$

Karawang

You could save

2,497/mo

Savings Rate83%

Monthly Costs

Rent $74
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$430

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
83/100
Retiree Score
(i)
90/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
đŸ’»Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Indonesia Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
—
Safety
18
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $1
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$1
Meal (Mid-range) $52
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $39
Mobile Plan (mo) $5
Gym (mo) *$21
Cinema Ticket $3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $74
1BR Outside (mo) *$178
3BR Center (mo) $118
3BR Outside (mo) *$480

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
low
Expat Community
medium
Top Neighborhoods
—
Best For
—

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
23°C°C - 33°C°C
Annual Rainfall
2141 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Bengkulu, IndonesiaKediri, IndonesiaLiving in Kediri, Indonesia offers raw Javanese culture and low costs, but limited amenities. Best for expats who prioritize authenticity over convenience.Curitiba, BrazilLiving in Curitiba offers LGBTQ+ inclusivity and low costs, with city center rents under $300/month. Brazil’s progressive hub balances affordability with urban Rio Grande da Serra, BrazilLiving in Rio Grande da Serra offers a low-cost, small-town lifestyle in Brazil’s Serra GaĂșcha region. Best for retirees or nomads who prioritize affordability

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Karawang

Click any question to expand the answer.

Karawang has a population of approximately 1,100,000 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $184 per month in Karawang, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $74/month.

The nearest airport to Karawang is HLP, approximately 45km away.

Karawang is generally safe, but flooding during the rainy season can pose risks. The 2010 floods affected thousands, so expats should prioritize flood-safe housing and insurance.

Karawang is ideal for budget-conscious expats or commuters working in Jakarta who prioritize low living costs over urban conveniences. It’s not for those seeking a vibrant expat community or luxury amenities.

Share This Guide