Is Penang more expensive than Colombo?

Penang is 0.6% cheaper than Colombo overall. Rent is 31.6% lower, groceries 8.9% cheaper, and restaurants 7.8% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Colombo or Penang?

Colombo has a purchasing power index of 19.4 while Penang has 78.5 (NYC = 100). Penang offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇱🇰 Colombo vs 🇲🇾 Penang

2026

Penang is 0.6% cheaper

Category	🇱🇰 Colombo	🇲🇾 Penang	Difference
Cost of Living	34.3	34.1	-0.6%
Rent	11.7	8.0	-31.6%
Groceries	48.4	44.1	-8.9%
Restaurants	25.6	23.6	-7.8%
Purchasing Power	19.4	78.5	+304.6%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Add your salary for a personalized comparison

See exact tax differences, net income, and savings potential.

40k Salary 60k Salary

Explore

🇱🇰 Cost of Living in Colombo

Explore

🇲🇾 Cost of Living in Penang

Explore

🇱🇰 Should I Move to Colombo?

Explore

🇲🇾 Should I Move to Penang?