Data updated Nov 13, 2026
Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 79)
Makassar sits on the southwestern coast of Sulawesi, a port city of 1.3 million people built just 7 meters above sea level in the Asia/Makassar timezone. The climate is a tropical monsoon pattern, with heavy rain and high humidity shaping daily rhythms through the year. Among the small expat community, Panakkukang is the neighborhood most often chosen, a practical base with easy access to the city's commercial and dining life.
Rent is the headline number here. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center runs $196/mo, while the same outside the center drops to $151/mo. Three-bedroom units go for $391/mo centrally and $307/mo farther out. Utilities add $89/mo, internet $25/mo, and a mobile phone plan just $3/mo. A monthly public transport pass costs $4/mo and a gym membership $21/mo. Eating out is inexpensive: $2 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant, $9 for a three-course mid-range meal for two, and $2 for a cappuccino. Single adults can live on a budget tier of $310/mo, a mid-range tier of $410/mo, or a comfortable tier of $479/mo, all rent included. Excluding rent, a single person spends around $450/mo and a family of four around $1,400/mo. Against that, the average monthly net salary locally is $214/mo, and the cost of living index sits at 36/100 against New York City at 100.
Safety is moderate, with a safety index of 60/100 and a crime index of 40/100, where lower is safer. Healthcare quality is rated good. Air quality is a concern, with an air quality index of 65, where lower is better. Internet averages 50 Mbps, enough for most remote work and streaming.
For longer stays, Indonesia offers the Retirement Visa (KITAS) and the Remote Worker Visa (E33G), both requiring a minimum monthly income of $2,000/mo. The nearest airport is UPG, 16 km away. English proficiency is limited and the expat community is small, so this city rewards those who arrive with patience and a willingness to adapt. Scores reflect that mix: an overall expat score of 79/100, a FIRE score of 81/100, a retiree score of 60/100, and a digital nomad score of 64/100. Makassar suits budget-focused savers, early retirees chasing a low cost of living, and remote workers who value low overhead over a large international social scene.
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Makassar at the budget tier comes to about $368 a month for one adult, with $151 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $69.00 on groceries, $9.00 on dining out, $18.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $117 on utilities and connectivity and $4.00 on transport.
Rent
$151/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$69.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$9.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$18.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$117/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$4.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Makassar at the mid-range tier comes to about $435 a month for one adult, with $151 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $92.00 on groceries, $22.00 on dining out, $49.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $117 on utilities and connectivity and $4.00 on transport.
Rent
$151/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$92.00/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$22.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$49.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$117/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$4.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Makassar at the comfortable tier comes to about $556 a month for one adult, with $196 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $129 on groceries, $40.00 on dining out, $70.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $117 on utilities and connectivity and $4.00 on transport.
Rent
$196/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$129/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$40.00/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$70.00/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$117/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$4.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $195.58/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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Makassar is moderately safe for expats, with a Safety Index of 60 suggesting reasonable security relative to Indonesian standards. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and motorcycle robbery are the primary concerns, particularly in crowded markets and at night. Avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, and stay alert in the port district and outer neighborhoods. Violent crime against foreigners is uncommon. The city's large expat community and established infrastructure provide a stable environment. Exercise standard precautions rather than heightened vigilance—this is a viable option for remote workers and retirees comfortable with typical Southeast Asian urban conditions.
Makassar has a safety index of 46.99/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
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See how Makassar's healthcare compares with Madiun
Tropical monsoon climate with heavy rain and high humidity.
Indices last read Nov 13, 2026.
Makassar is a cultural hub bursting with traditional and modern elements.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Ruang Kerja Bersama (RKB) Makassar | A popular local coworking space in Makassar, RKB offers a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. It's located in Panakkukang, a central area, making it convenient for accessing amenities and transportation. Good for those seeking a local vibe. |
| Kedai Kolega | Kedai Kolega is a coworking space that combines a cafe atmosphere with workspace facilities. Located in the Tamalate area, it's a good option for those who enjoy a casual and social working environment. Offers good coffee and food options. |
| Nakamura.id | Nakamura.id provides a modern and professional coworking environment. It's located in a strategic area of Makassar, offering easy access to various business and commercial establishments. Caters to a more professional crowd. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Makassar long-term? Indonesia Remote Worker Visa (E33G) lets remote workers live legally with a minimum income of $2,000/month.
View full requirements →Working remotely from Makassar? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
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See how Makassar's digital nomad life compares with Madiun
The gateway to East Indonesia is a busy port city with very little international infrastructure.
Areas of Makassar that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Vibrant waterfront, tourist-centric
Centered around the iconic Losari Beach promenade, this area is popular with tourists and locals alike. Expect higher prices and more crowds, but also easy access to restaurants, cafes, and entertainment. While walkable along the beach, transportation is needed to reach other parts of the city.
Modern, commercial, convenient living
A modern district with shopping malls, restaurants, and apartments. It's a convenient place to live with good access to amenities, but can be busy and noisy. Many younger professionals and families reside here. Public transport is available, but traffic can be heavy.
Upscale, coastal, residential area
An upscale coastal area with newer housing developments and potentially quieter streets. It's further from the city center, offering a more relaxed environment. Expect higher rental costs. Car ownership is recommended due to limited public transportation.
Historic, cultural, central location
The heart of Makassar, close to historical sites like Fort Rotterdam and Somba Opu. Offers a mix of old and new, with traditional markets and modern shops. Can be crowded and noisy, but provides easy access to cultural attractions and local experiences.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $196/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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