The Showdown of Two Expat Hotspots
Colombia or Malaysia? Two countries on opposite sides of the globe, both promising affordable living, friendly people, and an escape from U.S. costs that feel like they’re on steroids. But when you’re choosing where to retire, work remotely, or simply live abroad without draining your savings, which one actually comes out on top?
I’ve lived, researched, and spoken with countless expats in both regions, and today we’re putting Colombia and Malaysia head-to-head across the big categories: cost of living, flights, visas, taxes, healthcare, safety, lifestyle, and even the all-important question — how easy is it to get a drink?
Cost of Living
Both Colombia and Malaysia are budget-friendly havens compared to the U.S.
Colombia: A modern one-bedroom in Medellín or Bogotá runs $400–800/month. Eating out is ridiculously cheap — a full lunch costs $3–6, and groceries (aside from imported goods) are equally affordable.
Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur or Penang are in the same ballpark for rent ($400–700/month). But Malaysia shines in its food culture — legendary street stalls where a full meal runs $2–4.
Winner? Tie. Colombia holds its own on housing; Malaysia wins if you’re the type who wants every meal out without guilt.
Flights & Distance
Colombia: Medellín to Miami? About 3 hours. Bogotá to New York? 6 hours. That’s quicker than a U.S. cross-country flight.
Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur to the U.S. East Coast? 15–20 hours with multiple connections. Brutal jet lag. But you’re a budget flight away from Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali.
Winner? For Americans, Colombia wins hands-down. If Southeast Asia is your playground, Malaysia makes sense.
Visas & Residency
Colombia: Easy access. Digital Nomad Visa with just $900/month of foreign income. Retirement Visa with $800/month pension. Even a $90k real estate investment qualifies for residency pathways.
Malaysia: The famous MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) requires big assets, deposits, and higher income thresholds. A newer digital nomad pass exists, but mainly for tech pros earning $24,000+/year.
Winner? Colombia. Fewer hoops, smaller income requirements, and smoother renewals.
Taxes
Colombia: Become a tax resident after 183 days, which means worldwide income is taxed. U.S. Social Security isn’t taxed, but other income may be. Expect accountants and paperwork.
Malaysia: Territorial system. Only Malaysian-sourced income is taxed. Foreign income and pensions? Usually tax-free, even when brought in.
Winner? Malaysia, no contest. Expats love the low-tax structure.
Healthcare
Colombia: Ranked #22 by WHO, ahead of the U.S. Public EPS system plus private care makes it cheap and high-quality. Specialist visits cost $40–60, private insurance runs $60–150/month.
Malaysia: Ranked lower but shines as a medical tourism hub. Hospitals like Gleneagles and Prince Court are world-class, English-friendly, and efficient. Specialist visits? $30–50. MRIs around $200–250.
Winner? Toss-up. Colombia is cheaper overall, Malaysia feels more polished and international.
Safety & Stability
Colombia: Safer than its reputation, but petty theft exists. Stick to good neighborhoods and use common sense.
Malaysia: One of Asia’s safest countries. Violent crime is rare, and political stability is relatively high.
Winner? Malaysia.
Language
Colombia: Spanish is essential. English is minimal outside tourist areas.
Malaysia: English is everywhere — hospitals, banks, schools, street signs.
Winner? Malaysia by a wide margin.
Culture & Lifestyle
Colombia: Salsa, street festivals, and a coffee-driven culture. Bogotá’s food scene is booming. Medellín’s nightlife is strong.
Malaysia: Culinary paradise with Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. Tropical islands, cultural diversity, and modern malls.
Winner? Depends on your vibe. Colombia for dancing and nightlife, Malaysia for food and cultural variety.
Wine, Beer & Spirits
Colombia: Affordable Chilean and Argentinian wine, strong beer culture, and aguardiente if you’re brave.
Malaysia: Alcohol is taxed heavily. Limited options, higher costs, less variety.
Winner? Colombia.
Expat Community
Colombia: Growing but still relatively new. You’ll find nomads in Medellín and retirees in Bogotá or Cartagena.
Malaysia: Long-established expat hubs, international schools, organized meetups, and strong networks.
Winner? Malaysia.
Final Score
Colombia wins on visas, proximity to the U.S., and a livelier drinking culture.
Malaysia wins on taxes, safety, healthcare polish, language ease, and expat infrastructure.
Bottom line?
If you want to stay close to the U.S. with affordable visas and a vibrant social scene, go Colombia.
If you want turnkey expat life, low taxes, and a multicultural hub in Asia, go Malaysia.