Being the capital and most populated city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur has emerged not only as one of the major attraction for citizens within the country but also for expats around the world. The growing development and convenience in the city have attracted people from all across the world to move there and call it home, as it is a perfect place to sustain a high standard of living while offering expats a cost-effective environment to stay. But where exactly are some of the best areas to live in KL for expats? In today’s article, we will guide you through the top 5 areas that expats should consider for the best living environment.
- Bangsar
Bangsar is a large settlement that has a combination of both the busy commercial area and a quieter residential area. It is a peaceful and mature neighbourhood with bungalows and condos, at the same time home to the city’s best shopping malls, restaurants, bars and cafes. The residential district generally consists of few high-rise apartment complexes and numerous landed properties.
An extremely popular hangout area for middle/upper-class locals and expats, you will most likely be a regular visitor to, is its high-end shopping centres like Bangsar Shopping Centre, Bangsar Village I and Bangsar Village II, even if you don’t live there. Other than that, they have many independent restaurants and cafes that serve all kinds of cuisines, perfect for gathering or even meals alone.
Here, there are many daycare centres and preschools, suitable for family with young kids. Even though there are no international schools around, many families would willingly drive for a short distance to neighbouring areas.
Related Article: 5 Reasons Why Expats Choose to Live in Bangsar South
- TTDI (Taman Tun Dr Ismail)
One of Kuala Lumpur’s prime residential township, TTDI is a popular residential area that has a calm and relaxing vibe, which consists of properties such as townhouses, penthouses, landed properties and condominiums. The locals living within the community are mostly a mix of well off Malaysians and expats. Besides that, the area is rather big, housing a few central hubs with restaurants and shops that are near to each other.
Its main attraction is the TTDI recreation park, which is connected to the jungle and a golf course. It also has a strategic location, conveniently located right next to bigger malls like 1 Utama. The neighbourhood has a number of preschools and secondary institutions around, so families with children need not be worried about their education options.
Filled with much greeneries, TTDI is a town that caters to residents who prefer a more relaxed and slow-paced lifestyle.
- Ampang
Ampang is a popular expat area as it’s located near the embassies, and also various international schools like The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) and Sayfol International School. It is a town that feels rather suburban, with greeneries and spacious parks and lakes, although located just beside the hustle and bustle of KLCC.
In Ampang, there are higher-end gated mansions and bungalows, to lower-end condos to let, depending on the surroundings and facilities you’re looking for. And like many places in KL, the traffic tend to be quite atrocious during peak hours.
This area is pretty sought after as there are many shopping malls nearby, with the National Zoo only fifteen-minute drive away. Private hospitals scattered around the zone, thus finding a healthcare provider will not be an issue at all.
With its great and convenient locale, Ampang is definitely a safe and perfect place to live in.
- Mont Kiara
If you’re looking to settle down in a neighbourhood with a strong international community, look no further than Mont Kiara as it is already home to many expat families. It’s a popular expat neighbourhood and has become one of the most expensive areas to live in KL.
Here, there are many available lets, from older and cheaper condominiums to sleeker and pricier ones. Landed houses are also available but at more expensive rates. One downside about this area is the ongoing developments which cause irritating noises and block the surrounding views. But if you’re one that enjoys the concrete view of a city, then this is the place for you!
Expat families with children need not fret about their education as Mont’ Kiara International School would be an ideal choice for education. Other than that, the parks and recreation areas allow family activities like picnics and treks to take place.
Image Credit: retalkasia
- Damansara Heights
One of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur, Damansara Heights is a peaceful and hilly area with a high concentration of lavish residential buildings. You will be spoilt for choice choosing where to live in as condominiums, penthouses, semi-d homes and bungalows can be seen everywhere in the area.
For those who are health-conscious, gyms, fitness outlets and independent grocery stores are available all around town. Also, shopping malls like Plaza Damansara and Damansara City mall allows for a family-friendly entertaining activity. Not forgetting the restaurants and bars around that serve international and delicious cuisines!
Damansara Heights is also easily accessible through a few MRT stations, increasing the convenience to commute from home to work, and vice versa. Thus, we conclude the top 5 areas to live in KL for expats.
Having trouble finding tenants? Let us help you transform your property to attract your target tenants and we even manage it for you. Engage us for property management services today!
