Balikpapan

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Cost of Living

Sections

Cost of Living in Balikpapan, Indonesia: Housing and Accommodation

Rental Costs

  • Apartments:

    • 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center): IDR 3,000,000 - IDR 5,000,000 per month
    • 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Center): IDR 2,000,000 - IDR 3,500,000 per month
    • 2-Bedroom Apartment (City Center): IDR 5,000,000 - IDR 8,000,000 per month
    • 2-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Center): IDR 3,500,000 - IDR 5,500,000 per month

  • Houses:

    • 3-Bedroom House (City Center): IDR 8,000,000 - IDR 15,000,000 per month
    • 3-Bedroom House (Outside City Center): IDR 5,000,000 - IDR 10,000,000 per month

Neighborhood Price Ranges

  • City Center (e.g., Balikpapan Baru, Gunung Malang): Higher rental prices, more amenities, and proximity to business districts.
  • Suburban Areas (e.g., Sepinggan, Kariangau): More affordable options, larger spaces, and a quieter environment.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished Options

  • Furnished Apartments: Generally available, prices may be 10-20% higher than unfurnished. Commonly include basic furniture, appliances, and sometimes utilities.
  • Unfurnished Apartments: More common, allowing for personal customization. Typically lower rent.

Utilities Costs

  • Electricity: IDR 500,000 - IDR 1,000,000 per month (depends on usage)
  • Water: IDR 100,000 - IDR 300,000 per month
  • Internet: IDR 300,000 - IDR 600,000 per month (varies by provider and speed)

Deposits and Fees

  • Security Deposit: Usually 1-2 months' rent, refundable at the end of the lease if no damages occur.
  • Agency Fees: If using a real estate agent, expect to pay a fee equivalent to 1 monthโ€™s rent.

Tips for Finding Housing

  • Online Platforms: Use local websites like OLX, Rumah123, or Facebook Marketplace for listings.
  • Local Real Estate Agents: Consider hiring a local agent who understands the market and can negotiate on your behalf.
  • Networking: Join expat groups on social media to get recommendations and insights from current residents.

Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Lease Agreements: Typically 1-year leases are standard. Ensure to read the contract carefully, especially regarding termination clauses.
  • Local Customs: Be prepared to negotiate rental prices; itโ€™s common in Indonesia.
  • Language Barrier: While some landlords may speak English, learning basic Bahasa Indonesia can be beneficial.
  • Safety and Security: Research neighborhoods for safety; some areas may have higher crime rates.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of housing and accommodation costs in Balikpapan, helping newcomers navigate their options effectively.