Kuala Lumpur is a dynamic and diverse city, and more affordable than other capitals in the region, making it a sensible choices for expats living in Southeast Asia. Around a quarter of a million foreigners are currently renting in Kuala Lumpur. Whether your preference is for a condo in fancy Mont Kiara neighbourhood or a relaxing suburb like Bukit Jalil, the Malaysian capital has much to offer. From students to families, there’s a neighbourhood to suit your needs. Here’s our list of the some of best places to live in Kuala Lumpur for expats!
#1 Mont Kiara
Mont Kiara is a favoured neighbourhood for expats renting in Kuala Lumpur and ranks among the pricier places to live. The area has a high volume of condos, with about half unoccupied, offering a wide range of options. You can find everything from older, larger and more affordable units to newer, smaller and costlier ones. Houses are also available but tend to be more expensive.
Continuous construction in the area means it can be noisy, and condos here are often built close together, which might limit your view to more buildings than green spaces. Yet, some locations do offer a better panorama, including city scenes of KL’s famous twin towers or even the jungle from places along Jalan Kiara 5 or the Kiaramas area.
Mont Kiara is also near a jungle trail (Bukit Kiara), which is rare in Kuala Lumpur. And it’s ideal if you or your child attends one of the nearby international schools, as you can avoid heavy traffic during peak hours. The only caveat is that some people might prefer a quieter, less crowded area.
#2 Bukit Damansara (aka Damansara Heights)
Bukit Damansara is in between TTDI (Taman Tun Dr Ismail) and the Perdana Botanical Garden, and also close to Mont Kiara and Bangsar. Given its freeway access, this one of the best places to live in Kuala Lumpur for those working in the city’s central or west side.
The area is peaceful, primarily residential, and hilly, enhancing the air quality and providing pleasant views of KL. A few good dining options in the neighbourhood include Flour, which offers Indian cuisine with a European twist, Sitka serving Modern Asian dishes, JungleBird, a rum bar that has featured in Asia’s 50 Best Bars, and artisan bakery Huckleberry.
There’s a choice of condos and houses here, but for renting in Kuala Lumpur or even staying in serviced apartments, living can be more costly in Damansara than other parts of the city.
#3 Desa Park City
Desa Park is one of the relatively new places to live in Kuala Lumpur and on the outskirts, attracting families seeking peace and more space. Renting in Kuala Lumpur here is more affordable compared to more central locations, and also provides ample outdoor space for activities like biking.
The township has essential amenities, including a hospital, an international school and a residents’ clubhouse. There’s also a park with eateries facing a lake and a shopping centre to enhance the living experience.
Desa Park offers a variety of housing options, such as condos, houses and bungalows. Given its slightly remote location, rental costs are generally lower than in Mont Kiara and Bukit Damansara.
While Grab taxis are easy and economical enough as a transport option, having a car in this area is a plus.
#4 Bangsar
Bangsar is a highly popular place to live in Kuala Lumper for expats, and one you’re sure to come across as you scout the suburbs. It’s close to the city, just 2.5 kilometres from KLCC, and also convenient if you need to be near schools like Alice Smith or Garden International.
The area blends busier commercial spots with quieter residential zones. It mostly has low-rise buildings, including a lot of houses, and a few high-rise condos. As far as renting in Kuala Lumpur goes, prices here tends to be higher.
Bangsar Baru is a lively part of town and a popular hangout spot. It’s known for its stretch of restaurants and bars along Jalan Telawi, and is home to Bangsar Village I and II shopping centres. There’s also a famous Sunday night market, Pasar Malam. Bangsar Shopping Center in the eastern Taman Sa district has one of KL’s top supermarkets and several eateries and shops. Nearby are Mid Valley Megamall and The Gardens Mall.
The main road, Jalan Maarof, splits Bangsar into east and west sections. On the east side are neighbourhoods like Bangsar Park and Bukit Bangsar. The west includes Bangsar Baru and Lucky Garden. For city views of Kuala Lumpur, serviced apartments in Bangsar South are a good option, with proximity to a six-acre park near Bukit Gasing forest for those who enjoy a walk.
#5 TTDI (Taman Tun Dr Ismail)
TTDI is known for being a residential area, and it retains an easy-going feel. There’s plenty of room to breathe, and a nearby park area of jungle with trails for weekend walks. (The park here is set to be redeveloped in 2024 and 2025, so check for closures.)
The area mostly features low-rise buildings, including many houses and a few condos. It’s more affordable than nearby Mont Kiara, and the community combines well-to-do locals and a handful of expats who prefer the quieter surroundings.
TTDI is larger than it seems at first glance, with several areas of restaurants, all a short drive from each other. For shopping, there are a few small centres and a Hero supermarket, and it’s close to larger malls like 1 Utama. The British International School of Kuala Lumpur is nearby, and there’s a golf course in the area too. You’ll also find Malaysia’s only dedicated comedy club, Crackhouse, here.
#6 Ampang
While much of the newer development in Kuala Lumpur has been on the city’s west side, Ampang in the east of the city has been a popular expat choice for many years. Situated near the embassies and the International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL), it has a leafy, spacious feel and a more suburban vibe, despite still being close enough to the city centre.
Ampang stands out with its mostly low-rise architecture. While the area is home to many large gated estates, it also offers a variety of housing options ranging from bungalows to modest and luxurious condominiums.
There are several parks and lakes in the neighbourhood, and a jungle along its eastern edge. Set against that same jungle backdrop is atmospheric Thai fusion restaurant Tamarind Springs, which is well worth a visit.
#7 Wangsa Maju
Once a rubber estate, this major Kuala Lumpur township is now more urban. Wangsa Maju is home to major retailers like Carrefour and JUSCO and various affordable housing options. Whether you’re looking buying or renting in Kuala Lumpur, condos, semi-detached and terraced houses are available at reasonable prices.
The area is known for its educational institutions, including Tunku Abdul Rahman University, Institute CECE and the VTAR Institute. The Wangsa Maju and Sri Rampai LRT lines make it easy to get around. For entertainment, Wangsa Walk Mall has shopping and dining, ranging from fast food to fine dining, karaoke and cinemas.
#8 Seputeh
Seputeh is one of the best places to live in Kuala Lumpur for peace and convenience. For one thing, it’s ideal for retirees needing easy access to amenities. And it’s also close to the city while not being too close.
Mid Valley Megamall, The Gardens and KL Eco City are nearby for shopping and entertainment. A short drive takes you to NU Sentral and KL’s Golden Triangle. Healthcare is also accessible, with Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur just a car ride away, along with Columbia Asia Hospital and Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya. Travel is easy, too, even without owning your own vehicle.
#9 Bukit Jalil
Located between Sri Petaling and Sri Kembangan, Bukit Jalil is a medium-sized area known for its relaxed pace, appealing to both younger and older families.
Bukit Jalil offers amenities such as a golf and country club, parks, varied shopping options, an IMU Healthcare clinic, and a retirement resort within KL Wellness City and Pavilion Bukit Jalil shopping centre.
Despite recent developments, Bukit Jalil has also maintained its safe feel (the crime rate is said to be lower here than in nearby areas), which makes it a welcome environment for residents. It’s also well connected by public transport and major highways, including the Shah Alam Expressway (KESAS), Maju Expressway (MEX) and New Pantai Expressway (NPE).
Tips for renting in Kuala Lumpur
- During visits to Kuala Lumpur serviced apartments or condos, expect to see some untidiness, as units are typically cleaned only after a lease is signed, not before showings. Look beyond initial impressions such as dust and leftover belongings.
- Requesting updates such as fresh paint or new fixtures is reasonable before moving into a property.
- Don’t hesitate to negotiate rent; advertised prices can often be reduced. For example, it’s possible to negotiate a reduction from the listed price.
Found your preferred neighbourhood? Now read our list of fun outdoor activities in and around Kuala Lumpur.
