Brunei flagCost of Living Guide · Brunei

Cost of Living Guide in Brunei

Complete pricing for housing, food, transportation, and everyday expenses

Brunei offers a moderately affordable cost of living, about 15% higher overall (including rent) than the Asia regional average, with consumer prices excluding rent 20% above the regional norm but rent prices nearly identical to the Asia average. It stands out in Southeast Asia for its high quality of life and strong purchasing power, making it attractive for expats and digital nomads seeking stability over rock-bottom prices. No home country comparison available.

Estimated Monthly Budget

Frugal
BND 900–1,500 (~$670–$1,100 USD) — local food from markets, shared housing or basic outside-center rental, buses.
Comfortable
BND 2,000–3,000 (~$1,500–$2,200 USD) — city-center 1BR, mix of local/imported groceries, occasional dining out, ride-sharing.
Family of four
BND 5,000–8,000 (~$3,700–$6,000 USD) — 3BR expat housing, international schooling, imported goods, family car, utilities.

Brunei delivers excellent value with costs 15% above the Asia average yet high purchasing power and quality of life, ideal for expats prioritizing safety and comfort over minimal expenses.

Economic & Living Costs in Brunei
Food & Dining Costs

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

3-12 S$
Avg: 7.5 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant (3-course)

29.93-60 S$
Avg: 44.97 S$
-18.0% vs 3 months ago

McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)

7.95-12 S$
Avg: 9.97 S$
0.4% vs 3 months ago

Domestic Beer (0.5L draught)

2-5 S$
Avg: 3.5 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago
Housing & Real Estate Costs

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre

700-1300 S$
Avg: 1000 S$
+5.3% vs 3 months ago

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside Centre

500-1000 S$
Avg: 750 S$
+15.5% vs 3 months ago

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre

1200-2000 S$
Avg: 1600 S$
-13.3% vs 3 months ago

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside Centre

498.92-1500 S$
Avg: 999.46 S$
-20.0% vs 3 months ago
Transportation Costs

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

0.5-1 S$
Avg: 0.75 S$
-50.0% vs 3 months ago

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

3.99-15 S$
Avg: 9.5 S$
-5.0% vs 3 months ago

Monthly Transport Pass

30 S$
Avg: 15 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago

Gasoline (1L)

0.38-0.53 S$
Avg: 0.46 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago
Utilities & Communications Costs

Utilities for 85m² Apartment

50-127.5 S$
Avg: 88.75 S$
+22.4% vs 3 months ago

Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited)

69.85-238.48 S$
Avg: 154.16 S$
0.1% vs 3 months ago

Mobile Plan (10GB+ Data)

19.96-30 S$
Avg: 24.98 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago
Grocery Costs

Milk (1L)

2-4.99 S$
Avg: 3.49 S$
-2.6% vs 3 months ago

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)

2-4.79 S$
Avg: 3.39 S$
0.1% vs 3 months ago

Eggs (12)

2.39-4.2 S$
Avg: 3.3 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago

Local Cheese (1kg)

8-44.09 S$
Avg: 26.05 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago
Entertainment & Sports Costs

Fitness Club, Monthly Fee

29.93-120 S$
Avg: 74.97 S$
+11.1% vs 3 months ago

Tennis Court (1 hour, weekend)

13 S$
Avg: 6.5 S$
0.0% vs 3 months ago

Cinema Ticket

5-7.98 S$
Avg: 6.49 S$
0.1% vs 3 months ago

Preschool / Kindergarten (monthly, private)

150-300 S$
Avg: 225 S$
-24.8% vs 3 months ago
Last updated: 2026-04-03