Cost of Housing in Surabaya for Expats: Average Rent and Money-Saving Tips

r123-share-title

Cost of housing in Surabaya for expats can vary widely depending on the type of property, location, and facilities offered.

Many expatriates are curious about how much they need to budget for rent and how to find the best deals.

This guide provides an overview of average rental prices for apartments, houses, and serviced accommodations, along with practical tips to save money while renting in Surabaya.

Overview of Housing Options for Expats in Surabaya

Expatriates in Surabaya have several housing options depending on budget, lifestyle, and preferred location.

The main types of rental properties include:

1. Apartments

Apartments are popular among single expats or couples.

They range from small studios to larger 2-bedroom units.

Many apartments offer amenities such as security, parking, and shared facilities like gyms or pools.

2. Houses or Villas

For families or those seeking more space, renting a house or villa is common.

Houses can have multiple bedrooms, private gardens, and parking.

Villas are often located in quieter residential areas or suburban neighborhoods.

3. Serviced Apartments or Exclusive Boarding Houses (Kost Eksklusif)

Serviced apartments and high-end boarding houses provide fully furnished units, utilities, and sometimes cleaning services.

This option is convenient for expats who prefer hassle-free living without managing bills and maintenance.

Factors affecting rental costs include the property type, location, size, facilities, and whether the property is furnished.

Choosing the right option depends on your budget, family size, and desired lifestyle in Surabaya.

Check out this guide: Company Registration Number in Indonesia: A Guide for Expats

Average Rent Prices by Property Type

The cost of housing in Surabaya for expats depends on the type of property and the facilities included.

Here is a general overview:

1. Apartments

• Studio: Rp3–6 million per month
• 1 Bedroom: Rp5–10 million per month
• 2 Bedroom: Rp8–15 million per month

Apartments usually include security, parking, and sometimes access to shared amenities like gyms or swimming pools.

2. Houses or Villas

• Small house (2–3 bedrooms): Rp7–12 million per month
• Medium house (3–4 bedrooms): Rp10–20 million per month
• Luxury villa: Rp20 million per month and above

Houses and villas are popular for families and often come with private gardens, parking, and more space compared to apartments.

3. Serviced Apartments or Exclusive Boarding Houses (Kost Eksklusif)

• Rp4–10 million per month, often including utilities like electricity, water, and internet.

This option is convenient for expats who prefer fully furnished units and hassle-free living.

Note: Prices can fluctuate depending on the neighborhood, proximity to offices, schools, or shopping centers, and the quality of the property.

For expatriates who want to know the exact rental prices, it is recommended to visit dedicated listings on Rumah123, such as houses for rent in Surabaya or apartments for rent in Surabaya.

These pages provide up-to-date information, detailed property descriptions, and contact options to help you find the right place.

Check out this guide: How to Live in Bali Permanently: Everything You Need to Know

Tips to Save on Housing Costs

Renting in Surabaya can be affordable if you know how to plan and negotiate.

Here are some practical tips for expatriates:

1. Compare Multiple Neighborhoods

Prices vary across the city. Central Surabaya tends to be more expensive due to its proximity to offices, shopping centers, and restaurants.

West Surabaya offers a balance between price and convenience, while East Surabaya and suburban areas are generally more affordable.

2. Negotiate Rent

Many landlords are open to negotiation, especially for long-term leases.

Renting for one year or more may give you room to request a discount.

3. Consider Serviced Apartments or Shared Housing

Serviced apartments and high-end boarding houses (Kost Eksklusif) can include utilities, internet, and maintenance, which can save money compared to managing separate bills in a private house or apartment.

4. Check What’s Included

Before signing a lease, confirm which costs are included in the rent, such as electricity, water, internet, and parking.

This helps avoid unexpected expenses.

5. Use Trusted Platforms and Agents

Using reputable platforms or agents ensures the property is legitimate and the process is smooth.

Platforms like Rumah123 offer listings with verified details, helping you compare prices and find the best deals.

By following these tips, expatriates can make smarter decisions, reduce monthly expenses, and enjoy a comfortable stay in Surabaya.

***

The cost of housing in Surabaya for expats varies depending on property type, location, and included facilities.

By understanding average rental prices, comparing neighborhoods, and following practical money-saving tips, expatriates can find suitable housing within their budget.

Careful planning, research, and using trusted platforms or agents will help ensure a safe and comfortable stay in the city.