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Makassar🇮🇩

Indonesia · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Timezone
Asia/Makassar
Nomad community
Small

City metrics

📊 Data estimated — figures are based on published regional averages and are updated quarterly. Last verified: May 24, 2026

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)$300/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)$180/mo
COL index30 (vs Switzerland=101)
Cheap meal$3.00
Mid-range meal for 2$9.00
Monthly groceries~$140

Infrastructure

Internet speed40 Mbps
Healthcare index55/100
Coworking spaces~5

Lifestyle

Safety index55/100
Air quality55 AQI — Moderate
Walkability50/100
Climate score75/100
English proficiencylow
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communitySmall
Visa easemedium
Budget score86/100
Lifestyle score65/100
Overall nomad score
58/100
Source: NoodlePants composite (World Bank ICP, Ookla, OpenAQ) · Updated Quarterly

What it's actually like here

Looking for a deep dive into genuine affordability? This Indonesian gem might be your next digital nomad hub. With 1-bedroom rent a mere $300 in the center or $180 outside, plus cheap meals ($3) and groceries ($140/month), your budget will stretch far. It's ideal for cost-conscious nomads who prioritize saving and don't mind a less-trodden path. Internet speeds are respectable at 40 Mbps, and while not blazing, it’s functional for most remote work. There are a few coworking spaces, suggesting a growing, albeit small, nomad community. However, be prepared for low English proficiency; you’ll want to brush up on your Bahasa Indonesia. This city suits adventurers seeking an authentic Southeast Asian experience at a fraction of the cost, who are comfortable with self-reliance and perhaps a slower pace. The main caveat? The small nomad community means you'll need to be proactive in finding your tribe.

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Who this suits

Budget nomad

Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Makassar.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to live in Makassar as a digital nomad?+

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Makassar averages around $300 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 30 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.

Is Makassar safe for digital nomads?+

Makassar scores 55/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most central neighbourhoods are fine with normal big-city awareness.

How fast is the internet in Makassar?+

Headline average internet speed in Makassar is around 40 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.

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