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Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Kota Kinabalu blends laid-back coastal living with the conveniences of a mid-sized city, making it a quiet standout for expats seeking affordability without isolation. Daily life moves at a relaxed pace, supported by accessible healthcare, modest housing costs, and a generally safe environment where English is widely spoken. The city connects easily to nature—from jungle treks to coral islands—while still offering modern amenities.
Public transit remains limited, so owning a vehicle is often necessary. While infrastructure is functional, it’s not seamless, and some services move slower than in more developed hubs. Not a cosmopolitan hotspot, but a grounded choice for those prioritizing quality of life over urban buzz.
Population
527,671
Area
222 km²
Density
2,374 per km²
Founded
-
Language
English, Malay
Distance to Coast
2 km
Districts & Neighborhoods in Kota Kinabalu
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Climate & Weather in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu has a tropical rainforest climate (Köppen Af) with hot temperatures, high humidity, and rainfall throughout the year. Long-term climate data show a narrow temperature range, with annual averages around 26–28°C and about 2,400 mm of rainfall, consistent with a persistently warm and wet coastal tropical setting. The city is influenced by the Northeast and Southwest monsoons, but it does not have a true dry season.
Summer Average
29°C
Winter Average
27°C
Climate Type
Tropical Rainforest
Rainy Days
220
Sunny Days
170
Humidity
82%
Spring
March - May
27-31°C
Hot and humid conditions continue through spring, with frequent showers and occasional heavier rain during inter-monsoon periods. Temperatures stay high with little seasonal variation.
High rainfall
Summer
June - August
27-31°C
Summer remains warm and humid, with cloudy periods and scattered rain from the Southwest Monsoon. Rainfall is still common, though rain can be somewhat less persistent than in peak monsoon months.
High rainfall
Autumn
September - November
26-30°C
Autumn is one of the wetter periods as conditions transition toward the Northeast Monsoon. Rainfall tends to increase, and overcast, humid weather is frequent.
Very High rainfall
Winter
December - February
26-29°C
Winter stays warm rather than cool, with humid air and regular rain from the Northeast Monsoon. Temperatures remain steady, and wet spells are common.
Very High rainfall
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Air Quality
Kota Kinabalu
Advantages
Kota Kinabalu
Stunning coastal beaches nearby
Gateway to Mount Kinabalu
Affordable tropical living
Diverse multicultural community
31 parks for recreation
Growing business opportunities
Disadvantages
Kota Kinabalu
Limited higher education options
High humidity and heat
Monsoon season flooding risks
Limited job opportunities locally
Expensive housing costs
Safety & Security in Kota Kinabalu
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Good
63
/100
Malaysia Avg
60
Asia Avg
57
Worldwide Avg
57
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Kota Kinabalu to Malaysia averages using different marker styles.Compare:
