Exploring Brunei: A Costly Adventure In The Kingdom Of Unexpected Expenses

Brunei is a small country located in Southeast Asia, on the island of Borneo. The cost of living in Brunei is estimated to be 27% lower than in the United States. For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are around $3000-$4800, excluding rent. A single person can expect to spend around $800-$2400 per month, also excluding rent.

Accommodation in Brunei can be expensive, especially in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan, due to limited options and lack of competition. Transportation costs are relatively low, with local buses costing around $0.80 per ride and taxis being the primary option after 8 pm. Food in Brunei is comparable in price to the rest of Borneo, with meals averaging about $5 per person.

When planning a trip to Brunei, it is important to consider the limited attractions and the conservative Muslim culture, which expects modest dress, especially at religious sites.

A family of four can expect to spend around $3,004.7-$4,824 per month, excluding rent

A family of four can expect to spend around $3,004.70-4,824 per month, excluding rent. This estimate is based on data from 2024 and may vary depending on lifestyle and location within Brunei. The cost of living in Brunei is, on average, 27% lower than in the United States, with rent prices being 56% lower on average.

For a family of four, the monthly costs can be broken down as follows:

• Housing: As mentioned, rent prices in Brunei are significantly lower than in the United States. However, it is important to note that the availability of lodging options is quite limited, especially in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. The relative lack of tourists means there is little competition, resulting in higher prices and lower standards for budget accommodations.
• Food: Food costs in Brunei are comparable to the rest of Borneo. Meals at smaller local establishments or street food options can be reasonably priced, with an average cost of around $5 US per person per meal. It is worth noting that Brunei is a dry country, so alcohol is not sold, which can help keep costs down.
• Transportation: Brunei is a small country, and many of the main sites in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, are clustered in the central business district, making it convenient to walk around. Local buses are also available, costing around $0.80 US per ride, but they may have limited routes and schedules.
• Attractions: There are limited attractions in Brunei, and many of them are free to visit. However, transportation costs to and from these sites can add up.

Overall, while Brunei may have lower costs in certain areas, such as rent and food, other factors, such as limited lodging options and the cost of transportation, can impact the overall monthly expenses for a family of four.

It is always a good idea to research and plan a budget that fits your specific needs and lifestyle when considering a move or extended stay in a new country.

A single person's estimated monthly costs are $826.3-$2,363, excluding rent

A single person's estimated monthly costs in Brunei are $826.30-$2,363, excluding rent. This range takes into account the different costs of living for a single person in the country. Here is a breakdown of some of the costs that contribute to this range:

Housing

The cost of housing in Brunei varies depending on location and property size. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from BND 400-700 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in the same area can cost BND 1,500-2,500 per month.

Food

The cost of food in Brunei depends on the location and type of food. A loaf of bread costs around BND 1, a litre of milk is approximately BND 2, and a dozen eggs cost BND 2-3. A meal for two in a mid-range restaurant can range from BND 25 to BND 40. Grocery prices may be higher in tourist areas.

Utilities

Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas are relatively affordable in Brunei. The average monthly cost for these services is around BND 150-250. Internet and mobile phone plans are also reasonably priced, with unlimited internet plans starting at about BND 35 per month.

Leisure

Brunei offers a range of leisure activities, including exploring its rainforests and beaches. The cost of these activities varies. Visiting a museum or national park typically costs between BND 2 and BND 5, while a day trip to a nearby beach can cost BND 30-50 per person.

Transport

Transportation costs in Brunei depend on the mode of transport. A litre of gasoline is around BND 0.53, and a monthly public transportation pass is approximately BND 20-25. Taxi services are also available, with an initial charge of BND 3 and a cost of about BND 0.20 per kilometre.

Clothing

The cost of clothing in Brunei varies widely depending on the type and brand. High-end fashion brands tend to be more expensive, while basic clothing items like t-shirts and shorts are more affordable. Traditional markets and bazaars offer bargain prices on clothing and accessories.

Household Goods

The cost of household goods in Brunei depends on the type of goods. Basic furniture, such as a bed, table, and chairs, can cost around BND 800-1,500. Electronics, such as televisions and laptops, may be more expensive due to import taxes.

It is important to note that these estimates may not include all possible expenses, and actual costs may vary depending on individual lifestyle choices and circumstances.

The cost of living in Brunei is 27% lower than in the US

For example, a family of four can expect to pay around $3004.70 per month, excluding rent, while a single person's monthly costs are estimated at $826.30, also without rent. In comparison, a single person's estimated monthly costs in the US are $2363, according to Expatistan.

The local currency in Brunei is the Brunei dollar (BND), and it is recommended to use this when making smaller purchases, as some smaller businesses may not accept foreign currency. US dollars are accepted in some tourist areas, and major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are also readily available across the country.

The cost of food in Brunei varies depending on the location and type of cuisine. A meal for two in a mid-range restaurant can cost between BND 25 and BND 40, while a loaf of bread is approximately BND 1, a liter of milk is around BND 2, and a dozen eggs cost BND 2-3.

Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas are affordable in Brunei, with the average monthly cost for these services at around BND 150-250. Internet and mobile phone plans are also reasonably priced, with unlimited internet plans starting at about BND 35 per month.

Transportation costs vary depending on the mode chosen. A liter of gasoline is around BND 0.53, and a monthly public transportation pass is approximately BND 20-25. Taxis are readily available, with an initial charge of BND 3 and a cost of around BND 0.20 per kilometer.

Overall, the cost of living in Brunei is significantly lower than in the US, making it an attractive option for those looking for a more affordable place to live.

Accommodation in Brunei can be expensive and options are limited

Accommodation in Brunei

Brunei has a reputation for being expensive for travellers, particularly when compared to its neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. However, it is still more affordable than many countries in North America and Western Europe.

Free Accommodation Options

Couchsurfing is an option in Brunei, although it exists on a very small scale. Housesitting is another possibility, but it operates on a small scale, with only about one opportunity available per month. Volunteering is another way to find free accommodation; WorkAway, for example, has a placement in Brunei where volunteers help build a permaculture garden for students in exchange for free accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing opportunities.

Budget Accommodation Options

There are hostels in Brunei, and they are reasonably priced. The cheapest option is 22 Hours ($13/£11/18 BND for a dorm bed), which is located about 5 km outside of Bandar Seri Begawan. A slightly more expensive option is the CoLiving Hostel Bandar ($16/£13/25 BND for a bed in an 8-bed dorm), which is within walking distance of the city's most popular attractions and offers a small co-working space and a kitchen for guests.

Mid-Range and Luxury Accommodation Options

For mid-range options, Capital Residence Suites ($61/£50/83 BND for a double bed) is one of the best-rated hotels in Bandar Seri Begawan and offers a free breakfast and shuttle service. For a more traditional experience, the Kunyit 7 Lodge ($56/£46/76 BND for a basic triple room with a shared bathroom) is located in Kampong Ayer, a traditional floating village on the river. The only luxury hotel in Bandar Seri Begawan is the Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam ($120/£98/164 BND for a superior double room), which offers clean and spacious rooms, fast internet, helpful staff, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a free shuttle service.

Overall Costs

The cost of living in Brunei is, on average, 27.0% lower than in the United States, and rent is 56.0% lower. For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are 3,004.7$ (3,970.5S$) without rent, while for a single person, the estimated monthly costs are 826.3$ (1,091.9S$) without rent.

Food in Brunei is comparable in price to the rest of Borneo

The cost of living in Brunei is generally lower than in developed countries. For example, rent in Brunei is, on average, 56% lower than in the United States. However, the cost of a healthy diet in Brunei is among the highest in Southeast Asia, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The daily cost per person in Brunei is USD4.41, based on purchasing power parity exchange rates. This is the second-highest cost in the region, after Indonesia (USD4.47).

Despite the relatively modest increase in inflation, Bruneians are feeling the pinch of the upward trend in food prices. The prices of basic food items have been steadily climbing, impacting households across the country. The government has responded by adopting a collective approach to effectively mitigate the impact of global inflation. Initiatives to increase productivity and improve efficiency in local agriculture, such as modern and innovative farming techniques, access to credit facilities, and the expansion of agricultural sites, are helping to reduce reliance on imports and stabilise prices.

The private sector is also playing a crucial role in fostering resilience, encouraging local production, and diversifying import sources to stabilise prices and ensure food security. Efficient supply chains are pivotal in minimising food price inflation, and several initiatives are underway to optimise them, such as port infrastructure development and the increase of flights with the establishment of new airlines.

The cost of food in Brunei is comparable to the rest of Borneo, and while prices have been increasing due to global economic factors, collective efforts by the government and private sector are helping to stabilise prices and ensure food security.

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