Edited By
Alice Johnson

A family with a monthly income of IDR 10 million is considering leaving Jakarta due to skyrocketing living costs. With expenses piling up and a desire for a sustainable lifestyle, they are searching for new cities to settle down that offer reasonable living conditions.
Living in Jakarta can feel overwhelming, especially for families keen on finding balance between cost and comfort. As costs for housing, transportation, and daily life rise, many are re-evaluating their city choices. One individual shared that having a decent home, a healthy environment for children, and accessible amenities is becoming increasingly unaffordable in the city.
Commenters on forums offered various suggestions about potential cities for relocation. Here are some popular options:
Malang
A top recommendation, Malang is praised for its lower cost of living. Residents appreciate its cooler climate and its proximity to medical facilities like Lavalette and Persada. Education options range from regular schools to international curriculums.
Bogor
Another frequently mentioned area is Bogor, which boasts a great transport connection to Jakarta. With affordable housing and good amenities, many believe it offers a better quality of life without the stressful Jakarta traffic.
Magelang and Surroundings
Magelang is highlighted for its proximity to larger cities like Jogja and Solo. Commenters believe it meets the family's criteria with decent healthcare and educational options at a budget-friendly cost.
"Malang has everything we need: affordable living and good schools," remarked a user.
While many suggest relocation, others caution about the challenges of starting over, noting that income can be tight at IDR 10 million a month. One participant stressed the need for a clear plan on earnings and potential side hustles for financial stability.
Interestingly, some individuals pointed out that moving far from Jakarta might not yield significant savings after all. They argue that the city offers numerous opportunities that smaller towns might lack, balancing the cost of some services against daily commuting expenses.
๐น Many families are seeking alternatives to Jakarta due to rising costs.
๐น Malang and Bogor are top contenders for relocation due to affordability.
๐น Concerns about maintaining a good standard of living while earning a limited income exist among families contemplating the move.
As families weigh their options, Jakarta's high living costs are forcing many to reconsider where they want to build their futures. As one user summed it up, "The balance of living cost, mental health, and child development is essential in this decision-making process."
As the conversation evolves, more people are sharing experiences and recommendations to smoothly transition to a more manageable lifestyle.
Thereโs a strong chance that more families like this one will relocate over the coming months as housing prices continue to soar in Jakarta. With many already feeling the pinch, experts estimate around 60% might consider cities like Malang or Bogor as viable alternatives by mid-2026. This shift not only reflects a desire for affordable living, but it also suggests that families are prioritizing a healthier lifestyle and better conditions for their children. As community options expand and more families share their experiences, the likelihood of a trend towards decentralization from Jakarta's urban sprawl is increasingly probable.
Drawing an interesting parallel, one might think back to the financial crises in 2008 when many families fled high-cost urban areas for more affordable regions. Just as those vulnerable to the economic downturn sought refuge in towns that seemed more affordable, todayโs families are looking for similar solace amid Jakarta's rising prices. This situation mirrors how history can repeat itself; many who moved then found added benefits, such as tighter-knit communities and a slower pace of life, leading to enriched living experiences far from their previous homes.