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What it's actually like here
Living in Makassar offers a genuinely affordable experience, especially compared to bigger Indonesian cities. It's best suited for the adventurous digital nomad or expat who enjoys uncovering lesser-known gems and thrives in a more local environment. Internet speeds are generally reliable for remote work, though you might encounter the occasional patchy Wi-Fi in some cafes. The overall infrastructure is developing but perfectly functional. You won't find a huge expat or nomad community here; it's a quiet scene, so be prepared to make an effort to connect with locals. English proficiency among the general population is lower than in major tourist hubs, so learning some Bahasa Indonesia will significantly enhance your experience. Honestly, its main caveat is the limited English widely spoken, which can sometimes make day-to-day interactions and navigating bureaucracy a bit more challenging without local help or a translation app. But for those seeking an authentic, budget-friendly Indonesian immersion, Makassar holds real appeal.
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Who this suits
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. The national cost-of-living index for Indonesia sits at 56975 (USA=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. 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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