If you’ve ever heard someone describe Jakarta, you’ve probably heard the words “busy”, “lively”, or “traffic”; they’re not wrong. There’s energy, lots of it, from sunrise to well past midnight. You step into the streets, and it’s hard not to feel like you’ve stepped into a living, breathing organism.
But behind all that noise and motion, there’s a charm that grows on you. People here are warm and quick to smile. Street food is delicious, affordable, and readily available on every corner. And despite its size and speed, Jakarta still feels deeply personal, like a place that welcomes you, even if you’re a stranger trying to find your way.
If you’re thinking about moving here, whether for work, study, or adventure, one of the biggest questions you’ll ask yourself is: “How much does it really cost to live in Jakarta?” It’s a fair question, especially if you’re coming from abroad.
I’ve broken down everything, from rent and groceries to transport and leisure, you’re covered. You’ll get a realistic look at what daily life in Jakarta costs and how to make the most of your money while living here.
Those headline numbers are a helpful starting point, but here’s a more detailed picture I’d tell a friend:
Here are a few practical details that you should think about before you sign a lease:
Finally, a tip I wish I’d known sooner: rents can be negotiable, especially for longer leases or if the unit has been empty for a while. If you plan to stay six months or more, ask for a small discount or an included month of utilities. Landlords often prefer the certainty.
If you’re planning to stay in Jakarta long-term, buying an apartment may be a more sensible option than renting, especially if you’re earning in a strong foreign currency, such as USD or EUR. Property prices in the city vary greatly depending on location, access to amenities, and whether you’re buying new or second-hand.
In practical terms, a 70 m² apartment in South Jakarta, close to major offices and malls, will set you back around Rp 2 billion (≈ $120,000). If you move slightly further out to Bekasi or BSD, and the same-sized unit could cost closer to Rp 1.1 billion (≈ $67,000).
Prime areas like Sudirman, Kuningan, and Menteng are Jakarta’s equivalent of central London or Manhattan. New developments there typically start at Rp 25 million - 30 million per m², with luxury condos reaching Rp 40 million - 50 million per m² in branded towers like Pacific Place Residences or The Ritz-Carlton Apartments. These areas are popular among executives and investors seeking high rental yields, typically ranging from 5% to 7% per year for furnished units.
Emerging suburbs such as BSD City, Cibubur, and Bekasi have more affordable options, with prices hovering around Rp 13 million - 18 million per m². These neighbourhoods attract families and remote workers who value quieter living, good schools, and easy access to the city via toll roads. Many new projects here include smart-home features, gyms, and co-working lounges, targeting digital professionals.
If you’re buying, note that foreign ownership rules in Indonesia are limited. Expatriates can purchase apartments on a long-term leasehold (Hak Pakai), but not freehold land. Most developments catering to foreign buyers handle this process for you; however, it’s still advisable to consult a local agent or lawyer before signing any documents.
Example snapshot:
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How much you spend really depends on the type of venue, your expectations, and whether you’re treating yourself or simply satisfying a craving.
At the most basic level, you’ll find local eateries and warungs where a hearty Indonesian dish, such as nasi goreng or mie ayam, costs between Rp 20,000 and Rp 40,000. Street-food plates are usually less than Rp 15,000, especially early in the evening or in less touristic neighbourhoods.
When you move into mid-range restaurants like mall food courts, chain restaurants or modest sit-downs in South Jakarta, expect a meal for one to cost around Rp 60,000 - Rp 100,000, and for two people sharing a three-course dinner, maybe Rp 250,000 ‐ Rp 450,000. For example, data show “Meal for two people, mid-range restaurant, three-course” at about US $18.83 in Jakarta.
At fine-dining or international cuisine restaurants (such as hotel restaurants, those offering fusion menus, or those with high ambience), the cost rises considerably. A three-course meal for two can easily cost Rp 500,000 to Rp 800,000 (≈ US $32-50), especially if you add drinks. In Jakarta, many such restaurants add a combined “plus-plus” tax & service charge of ~21% (10% service + 11% tax).
Here’s how the main dining cost categories break down:
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The prices of groceries might vary depending on where you shop, but if you’re smart about it, you can eat well without spending too much.
Local markets like Pasar Mayestik, Pasar Senen, or Pasar Santa offer fresh produce, meat, and spices at prices 20 - 40% lower than those of big supermarkets. You’ll find beras (rice), tropical fruits, and vegetables sold by weight, with friendly vendors open to bargaining. On the other hand, modern supermarkets such as Ranch Market, Lotte Mart, and Grand Lucky cater to expats and carry imported items at premium prices.
A litre of milk costs about Rp 22,400, while a loaf of bread averages Rp 18,700. A dozen eggs cost Rp 29,000, and 1 kilogram of rice, a staple in every Indonesian meal, costs about Rp 16,000. If you’re a meat-eater, chicken fillets are around Rp 54,000/kg, and beef averages Rp 130,000/kg.
Fresh fruit and vegetables are very affordable by global standards, bananas at Rp 26,000/kg, apples at Rp 50,000/kg, and tomatoes or potatoes at Rp 30,000/kg. However, items like cheese (Rp 122,600/kg) or imported wine (Rp 380,000/bottle) can quickly push up your bill.
If you cook at home most days, you’ll spend about Rp 2.5 million - 3.5 million per month. Couples or small families spend about Rp 5 million - 7 million monthly, depending on eating habits and preference for imported products.
Tips:
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Jakarta’s public transport network has improved dramatically over the past few years. The TransJakarta buses cover most districts, and are reliable and air-conditioned. The fares start at Rp 3,500 per trip. For regular commuters, a monthly pass costs around Rp 205,000, offering unlimited rides.
The MRT Jakarta, which runs from Lebak Bulus to Bundaran HI, is a clean, efficient way to avoid traffic during rush hour, with fares ranging from Rp 3,000 - Rp 14,000 per ride depending on distance.
If you prefer flexibility, ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab dominate the scene. A short motorbike (ojek) trip across central areas costs approximately Rp 10,000-25,000, while car rides typically range from Rp 25,000 - Rp 60,000 , depending on traffic and the time of day. They’re often cheaper and faster than traditional taxis, especially for solo travellers.
Taxis remain a comfortable but slightly pricier option. Blue Bird taxis start their meters at Rp 9,000, with an additional Rp 6,000 - Rp 7,000 per kilometre. A 30-minute city ride typically costs around Rp 50,000 - Rp 80,000, depending on congestion.
If you’re planning to drive, fuel prices are quite reasonable. Petrol averages Rp 13,100 per litre, and parking in most areas costs Rp 5,000 - 10,000 per hour. However, owning a car in Jakarta comes with challenges: heavy traffic (especially during rush hours), toll road fees, and limited parking in central areas.
If you’re living in Jakarta long-term, expect to spend roughly Rp 800,000 - 1.5 million per month on transportation if you mostly use public transit or ride-hailing apps.
When it comes to utilities, living in Jakarta is relatively affordable compared to other major Asian capitals. The cost of running a household depends mostly on electricity use, especially if you rely heavily on air conditioning, and your internet or mobile data preferences.
For a standard 85m² apartment, the average monthly bill for electricity, water, cooling, garbage, and basic maintenance comes to around Rp 1,522,000 ($95). This figure assumes moderate air conditioning use. During hotter months, particularly from September to May, the cost can easily rise to Rp 1.8 million - 2.2 million if AC units are run for long hours. Smaller apartments or shared flats, on the other hand, typically cost between Rp 800,000 million and Rp 1.2 million per month.
Electricity is billed per kilowatt-hour and managed by PLN (Perusahaan Listrik Negara), the state-owned utility provider. Most apartments use prepaid meters, meaning you top up in advance, which helps control monthly spending.
Water and waste charges are typically modest, ranging from Rp 200,000 to Rp 300,000 per month, and some serviced apartments already include these costs in the rent. However, tap water in Jakarta isn’t drinkable, so you’ll likely spend an extra Rp 100,000 - 150,000 monthly on bottled water deliveries.
For connectivity, Indonesia offers one of the most competitive telecom markets in Southeast Asia. A mobile plan with calls and 10GB+ of data costs about Rp 88,000 per month. Leading providers such as Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat Ooredoo offer both prepaid and postpaid options, with excellent 4G coverage throughout the city and expanding 5G access in central districts.
High-speed home internet is widely available, with fibre connections becoming standard in most neighbourhoods. A plan offering 60 Mbps or more, with unlimited data, averages around Rp 422,000 per month. Packages from IndiHome, Biznet, or MyRepublic often include bundled TV channels or smart home options, adding convenience for remote workers or expats who work from home.
When you’re budgeting for utilities, expect to spend roughly Rp 2 million - 2.5 million per month for a comfortable one- to two-person household, including reliable internet and mobile service. Larger families or homes with heavy air conditioning use may see bills closer to Rp 3 million per month.
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You can never run out of things to do in Jakarta. Jakarta never runs out of things to do. There are concerts, exhibitions, football matches, cinemas, and a pub around almost every corner. One of my life’s wishes is to watch an actual Chelsea FC match at Stamford Bridge. We’re the pride of Jakarta anyway. The Premier League ticket prices vary widely for each club, but the Premier League has capped away game tickets at Rp30.
A gym membership typically costs around Rp30-Rp50 per month, although premium studios can charge more. If you prefer something indoors, cinemas are really popular. A movie ticket is about Rp15. In contrast, a pint at the pub costs around Rp6-Rp7. There are many other enjoyable experiences, including museums, galleries, and public parks, which are open to everyone. Finding a balance between paid activities and free exploration is the key to enjoying Jakarta without overspending.
It may not look like it from the outside, but the people of Jakarta know how to unwind. There are, in fact, plenty of ways to balance work with play, often without spending much.
Gym memberships in Jakarta range widely depending on location and amenities. Mid-range gyms such as Celebrity Fitness or Fitness First charge around Rp 450,000 - Rp 700,000 per month. Boutique gyms and yoga studios in upscale neighbourhoods like Kemang, Senayan, or Kuningan may charge up to Rp 1,200,000 monthly, while smaller community gyms can cost as little as Rp 250,000 - Rp 400,000. Many apartments also include free access to small fitness centres, which can help cut costs.
If you’re into sports, tennis courts are available in both private clubs and public facilities. Renting a court for an hour on the weekend typically costs around Rp 180,000. Some premium clubs in South Jakarta, such as the Jakarta Tennis Club, may charge between Rp 300,000 and Rp 400,000 per hour, especially when playing under lights or with coaching sessions included.
For entertainment lovers, cinema culture in Jakarta is thriving. You’ll find everything from IMAX theatres to boutique cinemas with reclining seats and in-seat dining. A ticket for an international release costs around Rp 60,000, though deluxe cinemas like CGV Velvet or XXI Premiere can go up to Rp 120,000 - Rp 150,000. A regular night out, two tickets, popcorn, and drinks, would likely total around Rp 200,000 - Rp 250,000.
If nightlife is more your thing, you’re also covered. Expect to spend about Rp 100,000 - Rp 200,000 on cocktails in trendy areas like SCBD or Senopati, or Rp 40,000-Rp 60,000 for a local beer at a casual bar. Cultural enthusiasts can also enjoy live music, art galleries, and local theatre shows, often for under Rp 100,000 a ticket.
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Preschools and kindergartens are widely available in most neighbourhoods. Local private preschools cost around Rp 1.5 million - Rp 3.5 million per month, depending on location, class size, and whether they follow national or Montessori-style curricula. In expat-heavy areas like Kemang, Menteng, or Pondok Indah, international early learning centres charge closer to Rp 7 million - Rp 12 million per month, especially those affiliated with British or American systems such as Kinderland or Jakarta Montessori School.
For primary and secondary education, international schools are the top choice for expat families. Tuition for globally recognised schools like Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS), British School Jakarta (BSJ), or Australian Independent School (AIS) ranges between Rp 250 million and Rp 500 million per year, depending on grade level and facilities. These schools offer bilingual education, small class sizes, and extensive extracurricular activities, all of which contribute to the higher costs.
On the other hand, local private schools that follow the Indonesian curriculum are significantly more affordable, averaging Rp 15 million to Rp 40 million per year, making them appealing to long-term expats seeking immersion and value.
If you need childcare or babysitting services, Jakarta’s large domestic workforce makes this accessible and convenient. Hiring a full-time live-in nanny (pembantu) costs around Rp 2.5 million - Rp 4.5 million per month, often including meals and accommodation. Part-time babysitters charge roughly Rp 50,000-Rp 80,000 per hour, depending on experience and language skills.
Jakarta is a perfect place to chase new experiences. On an average budget of Rp 15-25 million per month, you can rent a comfortable apartment, eat out often, enjoy the city’s café culture, and still save. The cost of living here is far lower than in places like Singapore or Hong Kong, yet the quality of life, especially if you earn in foreign currency, can be just as good, if not better.
Now, if you earn in foreign currency, you can create free multi-currency bank accounts, allowing you to receive USD, EUR, or GBP and convert them seamlessly to IRP. Take advantage of great exchange rates, transfer funds quickly, and keep your finances in one secure place.
Open a free Grey account today or download the app and make living and earning in Jakarta a smoother experience.
Disclaimer: This article is based on researched data and is intended to give readers a general overview of the cost of living in Jakarta. The figures provided are estimates gathered at the time of writing and may vary depending on location, lifestyle, and market changes.
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