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Makassar, Indonesia
Capital City

Follows Indonesia Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$800
Retiree Score
94.0
Safety Index
62.0
Healthcare
55 facilities

This city of 1.47 million is an economic powerhouse, but the bureaucracy is a persistent headache. Makassar's tropical climate brings heavy rainfall averaging over 3,000 mm per year. While the port is a key driver of the economy, the service sector makes up 70% of activity here. Ultimately, Makassar is best suited for those seeking economic opportunity in Eastern Indonesia, despite the administrative hassles.

Can I afford Makassar?

$

Makassar

You could save

2,200/mo

Savings Rate73%

Monthly Costs

Rent $350
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$450

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
73/100
Retiree Score
(i)
94/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Indonesia Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
62
Safety
55
Healthcare
100
Walkability
65
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $1
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$2
Meal (Mid-range) $78
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $94
Mobile Plan (mo) $3
Gym (mo) *$23
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $350
1BR Outside (mo) *$178
3BR Center (mo) $750
3BR Outside (mo) *$480

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Panakkukang
Best For
traders, researchers

Expat Life Notes

The gateway to East Indonesia is a busy port city with very little international infrastructure.

Pros

  • ✓ Fantastic seafood
  • ✓ Gateway to Toraja
  • ✓ Friendly locals

Cons

  • ✗ High traffic and heat
  • ✗ Limited English
  • ✗ Minimal expat social scene

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
21°C°C - 32°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1940 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Makassar

Click any question to expand the answer.

Makassar has a population of approximately 1,338,663 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $875 per month in Makassar, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $350/month.

The nearest airport to Makassar is UPG, approximately 17km away.

Makassar is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 62.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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