Digital Nomad Life in Ipoh, Malaysia
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Ipoh, Malaysia because it is a relatively affordable city with a low cost of living. The city is also known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and delicious food. The approximate population of Ipoh, Malaysia is 745,000. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Ipoh is around $1,000 USD. It costs around $400 USD to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Ipoh. The best neighborhood to live in is Old Town Ipoh, as it is close to the city center and has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The weather in Ipoh, Malaysia is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C).
How do I meet people in Ipoh?
When we asked people living in Ipoh about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Ipoh can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as the Ipoh International School Parent Teacher Association, the Ipoh Expat Club, and the Ipoh Hash House Harriers. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as the Ipoh International Food Festival, the Ipoh International Run, and the Ipoh International Music Festival. Additionally, expats can join local sports teams, such as the Ipoh City Football Club, or take classes at local language schools, such as the Ipoh Language Centre. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending local meetups, such as the Ipoh Expat Meetup, or by joining online forums and social media groups," said one expat who made the move to Ipoh.
What is life like in Ipoh?
When we asked people living in Ipoh what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Ipoh is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, making it a great place to live and work. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of affordable housing options. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including temples, museums, and markets. Additionally, Ipoh is well-connected to other parts of Malaysia, making it easy to explore the country. All in all, Ipoh is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a comfortable and affordable place to live and work," explained one person living in Ipoh, Malaysia.
Where should I live in Ipoh?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Ipoh is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Ipoh. Additionally, you can search for rental listings in local newspapers and classifieds. You can also ask friends and family who live in Ipoh for recommendations. Finally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Ipoh," explained one person living in Ipoh, Malaysia.
What do I need to know before moving to Ipoh?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ipoh, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Ipoh should be aware that the cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in the country. It is important to research the local healthcare system and ensure that adequate medical coverage is available. Additionally, expats should be aware that the climate in Ipoh is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F) during the day. It is also important to research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into the new environment. Finally, expats should be aware that English is widely spoken in Ipoh, making it easier to communicate with locals," remarked one member in Ipoh.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Ipoh?
"Expats in Ipoh appreciate the city's laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals. They also enjoy the city's diverse cultural heritage, with its mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other influences. The city's vibrant street food scene is another draw, with its wide variety of delicious dishes. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's affordability, with its low cost of living and wide range of affordable housing options. Finally, Ipoh's natural beauty, with its lush green hills and nearby limestone caves, is a major attraction for expats," said one person in Ipoh.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Ipoh?
"Expats in Ipoh often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in the area. Additionally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to navigate, as they are quite different from those of other countries. Additionally, the local cuisine can be quite different from what expats are used to, and it can take some time to adjust to the flavors and ingredients. Finally, the climate can be quite different from what expats are used to, and the heat and humidity can be difficult to adjust to," remarked one member in Ipoh.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Ipoh for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Ipoh for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa from the Malaysian Embassy or High Commission in your home country. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa such as a student visa, work visa, or business visa. Additionally, you may need to apply for a residence permit or a temporary residence permit, depending on the length of your stay," said one expat who made the move to Ipoh.
Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Ipoh?
We asked people in Ipoh if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Ipoh. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, and to avoid making jokes or comments about them. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local customs and to avoid offending people by speaking too loudly or using offensive language. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and to avoid making assumptions about people based on their ethnicity or religion," said one person in Ipoh.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What are healthcare services like in Ipoh?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Ipoh, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Ipoh, are well-developed and accessible, offering a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. The city is home to several public hospitals, such as Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun and Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta, which provide affordable healthcare services to the local population. These public hospitals are equipped with modern facilities and offer a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and specialist clinics. In addition to public hospitals, Ipoh also has numerous private hospitals and medical centers, such as KPJ Ipoh Specialist Hospital, Pantai Hospital Ipoh, and Fatimah Hospital. These private facilities offer a higher level of comfort and personalized care, with shorter waiting times and a wider range of specialist services. Many of these private hospitals are also equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and have internationally trained medical professionals on staff. Ipoh's healthcare services also include numerous clinics, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers scattered throughout the city, providing convenient access to primary healthcare and specialist consultations. The city also has several dental clinics and traditional medicine practitioners, catering to the diverse healthcare needs of the local population. Overall, healthcare services in Ipoh, Malaysia, are comprehensive and cater to the needs of both locals and visitors. With a combination of public and private healthcare facilities, residents and visitors can access quality medical care at various price points, ensuring that healthcare remains accessible and affordable for all," said a member in Ipoh.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What are the pros and cons of living in Ipoh?
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Ipoh, for its affordable cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. They appreciate the delicious and diverse local cuisine, which includes a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian dishes. The city's laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make it easy for expats to feel at home and integrate into the community. Ipoh's natural beauty, with its limestone hills and numerous caves, offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The city's central location also makes it convenient for traveling to other parts of Malaysia and Southeast Asia. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may dislike the limited job opportunities in Ipoh, as the city's economy is not as developed as other major cities in Malaysia. The public transportation system is also not as extensive or reliable as in larger cities, which may make getting around more challenging for those without a car. The language barrier can be an issue for some, as not everyone speaks English fluently, although many locals do understand and speak basic English. The hot and humid climate may also be uncomfortable for those who are not used to tropical weather. Finally, the slower pace of life and lack of nightlife options may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more vibrant and bustling urban environment," said one digital nomad in Ipoh.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote
Malaysia Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Malaysia on our Malaysia forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Malaysia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Malaysia.
Digital Nomads in Malaysia offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Malaysia.