Moving from Medellín to Penang (2026)
Penang has a COL index of 44 vs 35 for Medellín (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 24% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$40 more/mo
on rent + taxes · $75K salary baseline
Change cities
Key differences
COL index
35 → 44
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$500 → $460
per month
State tax
None → None
income tax
COL difference
35 → 44
24% more expensive
Salary needed in Penang to match your Medellín lifestyle
Based on the 24% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Medellín | Equivalent in Penang |
|---|---|
| $40K | $49,714 |
| $50K | $62,143 |
| $60K | $74,571 |
| $75K | $93,214 |
| $80K | $99,429 |
| $100K | $124,286 |
| $120K | $149,143 |
| $150K | $186,429 |
Adjust your salary
Save ~$48/moon core expenses at $75K
Monthly budget at $75K — Medellín vs Penang
| Expense | Medellín | Penang |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $500 | $460 |
| Groceries | $380 | $380 |
| Transport | $150 | $150 |
| Utilities | $55 | $55 |
| Internet | $30 | $22 |
| Left after essentials | $3,626 | $3,674 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Penang cheaper than Medellín?
No. Penang has a cost of living index of 44 vs 35 for Medellín (100 = US average). That's about 24% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Medellín to Penang?
On a $75K salary, moving from Medellín to Penang saves roughly $40/month on core expenses. That's ~$480/year.
What salary do I need in Penang to match my Medellín lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Medellín, you'd need roughly $93,214/year in Penang. This is based on the overall COL index difference.
Moving from Penang to MedellínMedellín vs Penang — full comparisonMedellín cost of livingPenang cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only