The cost of living in Brunei is affordable, with a Cost of Living Index of 48.6 (NYC = 100). Groceries are moderately priced (index: 68.0), and restaurant prices are notably lower (index: 33.5).

Brunei's housing market is very affordable, with a Property Price to Income Ratio of 4.69 years. The Rent Index is also very low at 14.56, indicating highly accessible rental costs.

The purchasing power in Brunei is excellent, reflected by a Purchasing Power Index of 145.51, indicating significantly higher buying power compared to New York City.

Brunei has a highly favorable tax system, with no personal income tax, VAT/sales tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or gift tax for individuals. Corporate income tax is 18.5%, with commercial properties subject to an annual tax of 1-12% of assessed rental value.

Brunei is ranked 66th globally for ease of doing business (2019 data) and 16th for starting a business. The country is actively diversifying its economy under Wawasan 2035 and supports a growing startup ecosystem, though regulatory transparency can be limited.

Brunei offers universal healthcare for citizens and subsidized rates for expats. A new National Pension Scheme (SPK) provides retirement annuities for citizens and permanent residents. As of July 2025/January 2026, foreign nationals require mandatory private health insurance, typically employer-provided.

Deposits in Brunei are protected up to BND 50,000 (approximately USD 39,000) per depositor per bank under the Brunei Darussalam Deposit Protection Corporation (BDPC) scheme. The financial system is stable and well-regulated by the Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB), with strong capital buffers and ample liquidity.