socialexpat-living-in-jakarta-a-guide-cover

Living in Jakarta – a Guide

Share:

Living in Jakarta; a Guide – Moving aboard might be chaos if you don’t know where and what you’re looking for. Moreover, when the country has very different cuture and development. But worry not, we’re here to help you to understand more about the lifestyle, here, in Jakarta.

Here are some things that you need to know.

Communication

Firstly, you need to activate your SIM card in order to communicate here. You can activate it and choose the internet plan with different prices and benefits. Telkomsel (simPATI), XL and Indosat/IM3 Ooredoo are some providers that you can choose.

Transportation

As previously written, Jakarta is a city with severe congestion problems. It’s better to use public transportation such as the TransJakarta bus or MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). You can download the TransJakarta apps to know more about the route and schedule. You might also want to consider downloading an online taxi application to make your trip easier. Read our detailed article about transportation in Jakarta here.

Living Cost

Living in Jakarta is undoubtedly expensive, especially in the central business district downtown. Housing, lifestyle, or maybe a dining place choice can be one of the reasons why living cost in Jakarta is expensive.

Entertainment and Lifestyle

Jakarta is one stop entertainment city. You can find fancy cafés, gyms, shopping malls, and restaurants –you named them, almost everywhere. Plus, keep on the lookout for some events held in some malls or districts that you don’t want to miss out on!

Housing Area

Last but not least, considering the right neighborhood with a reasonable distance from home to the office is a win-win solution to make your life in Jakarta more comfortable. Some areas that might be our suggestion for you are:

  • Kemang – an international laid-back village in South Jakarta
  • Pondok Indah – wonderful residential area
  • Kebayoran Baru – the best suburban area with parks and gardens
  • Cipete – great location with good access
  • Cilandak – good option for better value for money
  • Senayan – a living choice for skyscraper lover
  • Menteng – home for the elite of Indonesia
  • Kuningan – living in the middle of the hustle
  • BSD – a potential suburban

Furthermore, you can find the complete explanation for each area.

Jakarta is always a love-hate for some people. But as you now trying to make Jakarta your (temporary) home, prepare your working visa or KITAS as a resident. If you need one, better to reach LetsMoveIndonesia for assistance!

Content Writer

Gita Regina is a straightforward speaker, knowledge seeker, cake eater, and razzle-dazzle thinker. Her biggest interest is lifestyle, beauty, and fashion. She started her writing journey in 2009, while still a college student on her beauty blog. You will mostly feel like talking to her through her writing.

Related News

A different kind of matchday moment unfolded at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (GBK) in Jakarta last weekend. As the Indonesian national team secured a win over Saint Kitts and Nevis in a FIFA Series match, two men stood out in the crowd not for cheering the loudest, but for quietly narrating the game. They were […]

Relocating as an Indonesia expat can be both exciting and challenging. With a growing international community, the country continues to attract professionals from around the world. However, adjusting to a new environment often requires preparation, particularly when navigating daily life, cultural differences, and professional expectations. Traffic congestion, language barriers, and unfamiliar business practices are among the […]

Looking to expand your circle and meet like-minded professionals? Jakarta continues to host a vibrant lineup of expat networking events this April, offering everything from business talks to social nights. April 2026 Expat Event Networking Guide in Jakarta, Indonesia Whether you’re new in the city or building your professional community, these events are designed by […]

Ever dreamed of a more adventurous life, fully embedded in the culture of one of the Southeast Asia countries? Or maybe moving to Indonesia is just what you need. Among all the misconceptions about expat life in Indonesia, this article tries to put them right and show the real colors of living in this exotic […]

Indonesia Guide

Just For Fun

Write For Us

Exclusive Promotions

Event Gallery