Brunei offers expat families a unique Southeast Asian experience with exceptional safety, tax-free income, and high living standards. The small, wealthy sultanate provides excellent international schools, primarily serving the oil and gas industry expatriate community. Families enjoy subsidized utilities, fuel, and healthcare, though entertainment options are limited due to conservative Islamic laws. The tropical climate and proximity to Malaysian Borneo provide natural attractions, while Singapore is accessible for shopping and cultural activities. English is widely spoken due to the British colonial heritage and international workforce. The expat community is close-knit but transient, mainly consisting of professionals and their families. Alcohol restrictions and limited nightlife may affect some families' lifestyle preferences.

☀️ Climate & Weather

Monthly temperatures, rainfall, and sea conditions

33°C

Hottest (Jun)

23°C

Coolest (Dec)

Sunny days/mo avg

2345mm

Annual rainfall

Avg highAvg lowSea tempRainfall

28°

🌊 Jan

28°

🌊 Feb

29°

🌊 Mar

30°

🌊 Apr

30°

🌊 May

29°

🌊 Jun

29°

🌊 Jul

29°

🌊 Aug

29°

🌊 Sep

29°

🌊 Oct

29°

🌊 Nov

28°

🌊 Dec

💰 Cost of Living

Monthly family budget estimates (USD)

At a Glance

$1,500

Avg. rent /mo

$4.00

Budget meal

$25

Mid-range dinner (2 ppl)

Dining & Drinks

Cappuccino$3.50

Water (1.5L)$0.50

Groceries

Loaf of bread$1.20

Milk (1L)$1.80

Dozen eggs$1.90

Chicken (1 kg)$4.20

Transport

Taxi flag-drop$3.60

Taxi per km$1.00

Gasoline (per liter)$0.31

Monthly Bills

Internet$45 /mo

Utilities (avg.)$65 /mo

Gym membership$55 /mo

Domestic help$350 /mo

Preschool / nursery$500 /mo

Comfortable

A modest apartment in a suburban area, local dining, basic car ownership, and a simple social life.

$3,200/mo

Rent$1,200

Groceries$400

Lifestyle & leisure$150

Transport$350

Utilities$120

Dining out$250

Healthcare$100

School fees (per child)$500

Domestic help$130

Established

A larger house in a good neighborhood, regular dining out, club memberships, and domestic help.

$5,800/mo

Rent$2,200

Groceries$600

Lifestyle & leisure$370

Transport$500

Utilities$180

Dining out$450

Healthcare$200

School fees (per child)$900

Domestic help$400

Premium

A spacious villa, premium vehicle, frequent international travel, full-time help, and top-tier schooling.

$9,500/mo

Rent$3,500

Groceries$850

Lifestyle & leisure$600

Transport$750

Utilities$250

Dining out$700

Healthcare$400

School fees (per child)$1,800

Domestic help$650

Brunei offers a relatively affordable cost of living by developed-nation standards. The government subsidizes fuel, rice, and sugar. No income tax means take-home pay stretches further. Housing is the largest expense for expats, with international school fees being significant.