Jakarta

Kost (Boarding Houses) in Jakarta, Indonesia

Types of Kost Available

1. Kost Putri: Female-only boarding houses, often with shared facilities.
2. Kost Putra: Male-only boarding houses, similar to Kost Putri.
3. Kost Campur: Mixed-gender boarding houses, accommodating both males and females.
4. Kost Harian: Short-term rental options, suitable for travelers or temporary stays.
5. Kost Bulanan: Monthly rentals, typically more common for long-term residents.

Average Costs

• Kost Putri/Putra: IDR 1,500,000 - IDR 3,500,000 per month.
• Kost Campur: IDR 1,800,000 - IDR 4,000,000 per month.
• Kost Harian: IDR 150,000 - IDR 300,000 per night.
• Prices vary based on location, amenities, and room size.

Amenities Provided

• Basic Amenities: Bed, wardrobe, desk, and chair.
• Shared Facilities: Kitchen, bathroom, laundry area, and common living space.
• Utilities: Water, electricity, and internet (may be included or charged separately).
• Additional Services: Cleaning services, security, and sometimes meals.

Rental Procedures

1. Search: Use online platforms (e.g., OLX, Rumah123) or local real estate agents.
2. Visit: Schedule visits to inspect the kost and its amenities.
3. Documentation: Prepare necessary documents (ID, proof of income, etc.).
4. Agreement: Sign a rental agreement outlining terms, duration, and costs.
5. Deposit: Pay a security deposit (usually one month’s rent).

Payment Methods

• Cash: Common for monthly payments.
• Bank Transfer: Increasingly accepted, especially for larger amounts.
• E-wallets: Some kosts may accept payments via local e-wallets (e.g., OVO, GoPay).

Cultural Norms and Expectations

• Respect Privacy: Be mindful of shared spaces and fellow residents.
• Quiet Hours: Adhere to quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM.
• Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness in shared areas.
• Social Interaction: Engage with housemates, but respect personal space.

Local Considerations and Tips

• Location: Choose a kost close to public transport (TransJakarta, MRT) for easier commuting.
• Safety: Research the neighborhood’s safety; opt for kosts with security features.
• Community: Consider joining local social media groups for expats or residents to find recommendations.
• Language: Basic knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia can be helpful for communication.
• Utilities: Clarify what utilities are included in the rent to avoid unexpected costs.

This structured guide should help you navigate the process of finding and living in a kost in Jakarta effectively.