Living in Johor Bahru or KL/Selangor — which is better?
Quick answer: KL/Selangor offers higher incomes (2024 median household income: KL RM10,802, Selangor RM10,726) but pricier homes (KL median transaction ~RM710k). Johor (median RM7,712) is cheaper for landed homes and close to Singapore wages, the JS-SEZ and the RTS Link — good for families wanting more space on the same budget.
| Johor | KL | Selangor | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household income (2024) | RM7,712 | RM10,802 | RM10,726 |
| Median residential transaction (12 months) | ~RM479,500 | ~RM710,000 | ~RM498,000 |
| Pros | Bigger landed homes, near Singapore, JS-SEZ | Corporate jobs, MRT/LRT | Many jobs & townships |
| Challenges | Causeway traffic, lower local wages | High home prices | Traffic, rising prices |
Price medians cover all residential types (incl. condos) — a general picture only.
Read the full JB vs other states guide.
Frequently asked questions
Living in Johor Bahru or KL/Selangor — which is better?
KL/Selangor offers higher incomes (2024 median household income: KL RM10,802, Selangor RM10,726) but pricier homes (KL median transaction ~RM710k). Johor (median RM7,712) is cheaper for landed homes and close to Singapore wages, the JS-SEZ and the RTS Link — good for families wanting more space on the same budget.