Discover the southern metropolis in 2026: a thriving economic crossroads, an unbeatable cost of living and a gateway to the neighbouring city-state.
Located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, Johor Bahru (often simply called "JB") is no longer just a border town you pass through. In 2026, it has established itself as a serious alternative to Kuala Lumpur, and above all to Singapore, for thousands of expats and local professionals.
With a population now exceeding 1.8 million across its metropolitan area, JB offers a uniquely multicultural way of life where Malays, Chinese and Indians live side by side in a harmony that defines the very identity of Malaysia. This diversity is reflected in every street, every market and every festival, giving newcomers a rare and rich cultural immersion.
"Living in Johor Bahru means enjoying Singapore salaries while spending like you live in a Malaysian city. It's the best financial trade-off in Southeast Asia."
Thanks to the new RTS Link, operational since late 2026, you can travel from central JB to Singapore in just 6 minutes. No more enduring the legendary traffic jams on the bridges (the Causeway and the Second Link).
The cost of living in Malaysia is maximised here. The rent for a luxury condo in JB is the equivalent of a shared room in Singapore.
EduCity brings together campuses of British universities and leading international schools such as Marlborough College.
Learn more →From Legoland to the Puteri Harbour marina, weekends in JB are never dull.
Discover activities
In 2026, the SEZ has transformed the region into a genuine technology and financial hub. This bilateral project facilitates investment, cuts red tape and drives job creation in innovation, digital and advanced manufacturing.
Momentum driven by new data centres and semiconductor plants.
For eligible companies operating across the two border zones.
A steady flow of talent and capital crossing the Causeway every day.
Based in the business districts of Medini and Iskandar Puteri.
Compare your estimated monthly budget for 2026.
Outer-ring neighbourhood
Sea view & pool
Estimated annual savings on cost of living
* Based on an average basket including rent, food and transport.
The expat district par excellence. Ultra-modern, it is home to Legoland, EduCity and Puteri Harbour. Ideal for families looking for peace and quiet alongside international amenities.
For those who work in Singapore and use the RTS. This is the beating heart of the city, with giant shopping malls and direct access to the customs checkpoints.
The trendy district. Known for its nightlife, themed cafés and countless restaurants. Hugely popular with affluent young locals and digital nomads.
Check out our complete guide to renting furnished apartments in Malaysia to avoid the classic pitfalls.
The job market in Johor Bahru is undergoing rapid change. While many expats choose to live in JB while working on site or remotely for companies based in Singapore, more and more international groups are opening their regional headquarters within the Iskandar corridor.
Essential for working locally. See the categories here.
The ideal option for retirees or high-net-worth individuals. Details on the retirement programme.
The perfect visa for digital nomads working remotely.
The food scene in Johor Bahru is a spectacular fusion. Don't miss the Laksa Johor, unique because it is made with spaghetti (a historic royal influence), or the Mee Rebus.
The city is full of food courts such as Meldrum Walk, where you can dine for under RM 10 under the neon lights, but also award-winning fine-dining restaurants in the glass towers of Medini.
Explore the night markets (Pasar Malam) too for an authentic experience.
Johor Bahru is one of the most important logistics hubs in Southeast Asia.
Direct flights across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and China. Often cheaper than Changi.
Ferry connections to the Indonesian islands of Batam and Bintan for weekend getaways.
Yes, safety has improved considerably thanks to smart surveillance and an increased police presence in the tourist and residential areas of Iskandar. For more details, see our guide to safety in Malaysia.
With a comfortable "expat" lifestyle (a condo with a pool, an international school, regular outings), budget between RM 10,000 and 15,000 per month (around €2,000 - 3,000).
Although most doctors speak English, we have listed a few contacts in our directory of French-speaking doctors.
It's a game changer. It can carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour. Immigration checks are centralised (a "Single Checkpoint"), which speeds up crossing enormously.
Avoid the festive periods (Chinese New Year, Hari Raya) as administrative activity slows down. The climate is stable all year round.
The tap water is treated, but most residents use filters (Coway or Cuckoo) or buy bottled water for cooking and drinking.
Join our community of more than 5,000 French-speaking expats already settled in Malaysia. Ask your questions and plan your move with peace of mind.