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Medan, Indonesia
Capital City

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$800
Retiree Score
94.0
Safety Index
48.0
Healthcare
71 facilities

As Indonesia's fourth-largest city and home to over 2.5 million people, Medan is a bustling commercial hub with a gritty edge. The city's economic might is undeniable - it's a financial center for Sumatra and a gateway to the resource-rich western part of the country. However, Medan's rapid growth has brought its fair share of challenges, including a persistent bureaucratic headache that can make day-to-day life a frustration. The tropical climate, with over 2,200 mm of annual rainfall, is another factor to consider. But for those undeterred by the realities of urban Indonesia, Medan offers ample opportunities in trading, agriculture, and manufacturing - making it an appealing destination for those seeking to capitalize on the country's economic rise.

Can I afford Medan?

$

Medan

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.
48
Safety
71
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
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) *$2
Meal (Mid-range) $113
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $89
Mobile Plan (mo) $3
Gym (mo) *$18
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $350
1BR Outside (mo) *$178
3BR Center (mo) $800
3BR Outside (mo) *$480

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Medan Baru, Setia Budi
Best For
business travelers, adventurous foodies

Expat Life Notes

Sumatra largest city is a bustling trade hub with a gritty character and world-class food.

Pros

  • ✓ Authentic Indonesian living
  • ✓ Incredible culinary diversity
  • ✓ Low cost of living

Cons

  • ✗ Severe traffic and noise pollution
  • ✗ Limited expat infrastructure
  • ✗ Oppressive humidity

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
23°C°C - 32°C°C
Annual Rainfall
4861 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Medan

Click any question to expand the answer.

Medan has a population of approximately 2,109,330 people.

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

The nearest airport to Medan is KNO, approximately 22km away.

Medan is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 48.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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