Is Colombo more expensive than Penang?

Colombo is 0.6% more expensive than Penang overall. Rent is 46.3% higher, groceries 9.8% more expensive, and restaurants 8.5% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Penang or Colombo?

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

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇲🇾 Penang vs 🇱🇰 Colombo

2026

Colombo is 0.6% more expensive

Category	🇲🇾 Penang	🇱🇰 Colombo	Difference
Cost of Living	34.1	34.3	+0.6%
Rent	8.0	11.7	+46.3%
Groceries	44.1	48.4	+9.8%
Restaurants	23.6	25.6	+8.5%
Purchasing Power	78.5	19.4	-75.3%

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

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🇲🇾 Cost of Living in Penang

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🇱🇰 Cost of Living in Colombo

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🇲🇾 Should I Move to Penang?

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🇱🇰 Should I Move to Colombo?