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Mataram, Indonesia
Capital City

Follows Indonesia Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$620
Retiree Score
94.0
Safety Index
72.8
Healthcare
200 facilities

With a population of 441,147, Mataram is the largest city in West Nusa Tenggara province, but don't expect a smooth ride. The urban sprawl is a bureaucratic labyrinth, and the tropical monsoon climate means heavy rain from October to March. While the Sasak people make up the majority, the city is also home to Balinese, Javanese, and other ethnic groups, creating a diverse but sometimes disjointed community. Overall, Mataram is a challenging destination best suited for those seeking an authentic Indonesian experience, not a polished metropolitan lifestyle.

Can I afford Mataram?

$

Mataram

You could save

2,380/mo

Savings Rate79%

Monthly Costs

Rent $220
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$400

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
79/100
Retiree Score
(i)
94/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Indonesia Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
73
Safety
200
Healthcare
100
Walkability
5
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) $71
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $45
Mobile Plan (mo) $4
Gym (mo) *$26
Cinema Ticket $3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $176
1BR Outside (mo) *$142
3BR Center (mo) $360
3BR Outside (mo) *$384

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Senggigi, Mataram Tiga
Best For
surfers, digital nomads

Expat Life Notes

The capital of Lombok is a quieter alternative to Bali, with an emerging nomad and surf expat community.

Pros

  • ✓ Beautiful beaches nearby
  • ✓ Very low cost of living
  • ✓ Authentic local culture

Cons

  • ✗ Developing infrastructure
  • ✗ Less dining variety than Bali
  • ✗ Slower internet in residential areas

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1520 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.Cidade Dutra, BrazilLiving in Cidade Dutra, Brazil offers budget proximity to São Paulo's economy. Expect working-class grit, Portuguese necessity, and strategic safety choices forLodja, Democratic Republic of the CongoLiving in Lodja, Democratic Republic of the Congo, means adapting to remoteness and limited infrastructure. Best for those drawn to diamond mining or rice produ

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Mataram

Click any question to expand the answer.

Mataram has a population of approximately 408,900 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $550 per month in Mataram, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $220/month.

The nearest airport to Mataram is WADL, approximately 26km away.

Mataram is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 72.8. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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