Data updated Oct 8, 2026
Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 74)
Samarinda, the capital of East Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, sits at an elevation of 10 meters above sea level in a tropical rainforest climate that is consistently hot and wet year-round. The city is home to 828,000 people and operates on Asia/Makassar time. While specific expat neighborhoods are not named in available data, the city's overall expat score of 74 out of 100 suggests a generally favorable environment for foreign residents.
Living costs in Samarinda are notably low. A single adult's monthly expenses excluding rent average $350, while a one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for $300 per month and outside the center for $200. Three-bedroom apartments run $600 in the center and $400 outside. Utilities cost $28 monthly, internet $56, and a gym membership $14. An inexpensive restaurant meal is $2 per person, a three-course mid-range meal for two is $8, and a cappuccino costs $1. The average monthly net salary for locals is $331, making the cost of living extremely accessible for those earning foreign income. Budget-tier total expenses for a single adult including rent come to $700 per month, mid-range to $1,200, and comfortable to $2,000.
Safety and healthcare in Samarinda present a mixed picture. The safety index stands at 50 out of 100, and the crime index is also 50 out of 100, with lower numbers indicating less crime. Healthcare quality is rated as fair. The air quality index is 55, where lower numbers mean better air. English proficiency among locals is limited, which can be a challenge for newcomers who do not speak Indonesian.
For those considering a move, visa options include the Indonesia Retirement Visa (KITAS), which requires a minimum monthly income of $2,000, and the Indonesia Remote Worker Visa (E33G), also with a $2,000 monthly income threshold. The nearest airport is Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport (IATA: AAP), located 19 kilometers from the city. Samarinda is best suited for budget-conscious expats, retirees with sufficient income, and remote workers who can meet the visa income requirements and are comfortable with limited English proficiency and fair healthcare.
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Samarinda at the budget tier comes to about $368 a month for one adult, with $200 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $63.00 on groceries, $7.00 on dining out, $14.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $84.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$200/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$63.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$7.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$14.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$84.00/mo
utilities, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Samarinda at the mid-range tier comes to about $421 a month for one adult, with $200 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $84.00 on groceries, $17.00 on dining out, $36.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $84.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$200/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$84.00/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$17.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$36.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$84.00/mo
utilities, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Samarinda at the comfortable tier comes to about $589 a month for one adult, with $300 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $117 on groceries, $35.00 on dining out, $53.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $84.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$300/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$117/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$35.00/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$53.00/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$84.00/mo
utilities, internet
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 $300/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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See how Samarinda's cost of living compares with Kediri
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Samarinda presents moderate safety challenges typical of a large Indonesian city. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and motorcycle robbery occur regularly, particularly in crowded markets and at night. Avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or ride-apps, and stay out of poorly-lit areas after dark. Gang activity and occasional violent crime exist but rarely target expats directly. The city lacks the infrastructure and police responsiveness of Jakarta or Bali, making self-reliance essential. For expats comfortable with vigilance and basic precautions, it's manageable; those seeking low-crime environments should look elsewhere.
See how Samarinda's healthcare compares with Kediri
Tropical rainforest climate; consistently hot and wet year-round.
Indices last read Nov 12, 2026.
Samarinda has a developing infrastructure with limited options for remote workers.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Regus Samarinda | Regus offers a reliable, professional coworking environment in Samarinda. Located in a central business district, it provides standard amenities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and administrative support, making it a convenient option for expats seeking a familiar and functional workspace. |
| Ruang Kerja Samarinda | Ruang Kerja is a popular coworking chain in Indonesia, offering a modern and collaborative workspace. While specific Samarinda location details may vary, expect standard amenities like Wi-Fi, printing, and meeting rooms. It's a good option for connecting with local entrepreneurs and remote workers. |
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 Samarinda 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 Samarinda? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
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See how Samarinda's digital nomad life compares with Kediri
Areas of Samarinda 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.
Riverside views, relaxed atmosphere
Located along the Mahakam River, this area offers scenic views and a more laid-back environment. It's popular with families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. While not a major expat hub, English is spoken in some establishments, and it's relatively easy to get around by taxi or ride-hailing apps.
Residential, family-friendly, convenient
A primarily residential area with a mix of housing options. It's a good choice for those seeking a more local experience and don't mind being further from the city center. Public transportation is available, but a motorbike or car is recommended for easier commuting. Limited English spoken.
Local markets, traditional culture
This neighborhood offers a glimpse into traditional Samarinda life, with bustling local markets and traditional houses. It's a budget-friendly option, but may require more effort to navigate for those who don't speak Bahasa Indonesia. Expect limited English and a more authentic, less tourist-oriented experience.
Hilly, quieter, residential area
Located on higher ground, Gunung Kelua offers a slightly cooler climate and a more peaceful atmosphere. It's primarily residential, with a mix of houses and apartments. Transportation can be a bit challenging due to the hills, so having your own vehicle is recommended. Very little English spoken.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $300/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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