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Yes, we do update this article regularly to make sure the information stays fresh and relevant for anyone considering a move to Medan.
This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Medan as an expat in 2026, from cost of living and safety to schools, healthcare, and visa options.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Medan.
Is Medan a good place to live in 2026?
Is quality of life getting better or worse in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, quality of life in Medan is gradually improving, though the pace is uneven across different aspects of daily living.
The factor that has improved the most in Medan over the past two to three years is the expansion of ride-hailing services and digital payment options, which has made getting around the city and paying for everyday purchases significantly easier than before.
On the other hand, the persistent challenge that continues to frustrate residents and expats alike in Medan is the daily traffic congestion combined with road conditions that vary widely from one neighborhood to another.
Are hospitals good in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, hospitals in Medan offer solid care for routine and emergency medical needs, though they may not fully match the standards you would find in top-tier facilities in Western Europe or North America.
The hospitals that expats in Medan most commonly recommend include Siloam Hospitals Medan (Dhirga Surya) for its modern facilities and English-speaking staff, RSUP H. Adam Malik as the main public referral hospital for complex cases, and Columbia Asia Medan for its expat-friendly service.
A standard doctor consultation in Medan typically costs between IDR 150,000 and 400,000 (roughly 9 to 24 USD or 8 to 22 EUR) for a general practitioner, while specialist visits range from IDR 300,000 to 700,000 (18 to 42 USD or 17 to 39 EUR).
Private health insurance is strongly recommended for expats living in Medan because it provides faster service, clearer billing, and access to private rooms without the friction that can come with navigating the public system.
Are there any good international schools in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, Medan has around 10 international or bilingual schools, with a handful offering truly international curricula and accreditation that meet global standards.
The international schools most popular among expat families in Medan include Medan Independent School (MIS), which is the only school in Medan offering the full IB curriculum from preschool through diploma, and SIS Medan (Singapore Intercultural School), which follows a Singaporean curriculum with Cambridge and IB options.
Annual tuition fees at international schools in Medan range from approximately IDR 75 million to IDR 275 million per year (roughly 4,500 to 16,500 USD or 4,200 to 15,400 EUR), depending on the grade level and the school you choose.
Waitlists can be an issue at the most popular international schools in Medan, especially for mid-year enrollment, so it is wise to start the application process six to nine months before your intended start date, and public schools are generally not a practical option for expat children who need English-medium instruction.
Is Medan a dangerous place in 2026?
As of early 2026, Medan is not uniquely dangerous compared to other large Indonesian cities, but it does have a moderate crime rate that requires everyday awareness and sensible precautions.
The most common safety concerns for expats in Medan involve petty theft and bag snatching in crowded markets or busy streets, as well as occasional motorbike-related robberies targeting people who display valuables openly.
Neighborhoods generally considered safer for expats in Medan include Polonia, Medan Baru, Taman Setia Budi (Tasbi), Petisah, and the Setia Budi corridor, all of which offer gated communities, active street life, and reasonable proximity to malls and services.
Women can generally live alone safely in Medan if they choose secure housing with controlled entry, use ride-hailing apps instead of walking alone at night, and keep a low profile with valuables in public spaces.
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How much does everyday life cost in Medan in 2026?
What monthly budget do I need to live well in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, a single expat can live comfortably in Medan on a monthly budget of around IDR 18 to 25 million (roughly 1,100 to 1,500 USD or 1,000 to 1,400 EUR), which covers good housing, regular dining out, and convenient transport.
For a more modest but still decent lifestyle in Medan, you could manage on IDR 12 to 15 million per month (720 to 900 USD or 670 to 840 EUR), though this means choosing a simpler apartment and cooking more often at home.
If you want a more comfortable or upscale lifestyle in Medan with a modern condo, gym membership, frequent cafe visits, and private healthcare, you should budget IDR 25 to 35 million per month (1,500 to 2,100 USD or 1,400 to 1,950 EUR).
Housing is typically the largest expense for expats in Medan, often consuming 30 to 40 percent of the monthly budget, followed by food and transport, but families with children will find that international school tuition quickly becomes the dominant cost.
What is the average income tax rate in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the effective income tax rate for a typical middle-income earner in Medan (someone earning around IDR 300 million per year) is approximately 10 to 15 percent after basic reliefs and deductions.
Indonesia uses a progressive income tax system with marginal rates ranging from 5 percent on the first IDR 60 million of taxable income up to 35 percent on income exceeding IDR 5 billion, so your actual rate depends on how much you earn and your residency status.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Indonesia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What kind of foreigners actually live in Medan in 2026?
Where do most expats come from in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the most common nationalities among expats in Medan include Malaysians, Singaporeans, Chinese, Indians, and a smaller contingent from Europe, Australia, and the United States.
Medan's foreign resident population is relatively small compared to Jakarta or Bali, with most estimates suggesting a few thousand expats living in the city at any given time.
Most expats from neighboring countries like Malaysia and Singapore come to Medan because of business ties, family connections, or corporate assignments in industries like trading, logistics, and agribusiness that form the backbone of Sumatra's economy.
The expat population in Medan is predominantly made up of working professionals on corporate assignments or business owners, rather than digital nomads or retirees, because the city is more of an economic hub than a lifestyle destination.
Where do most expats live in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, expats in Medan tend to concentrate in neighborhoods like Polonia, Taman Setia Budi (Tasbi), Medan Baru, Petisah, Setia Budi, and the newer complexes along the Jamin Ginting corridor toward Tuntungan.
These neighborhoods attract expats because they offer gated communities with security, modern housing stock, proximity to international schools like Medan Independent School, and easy access to malls, private hospitals, and the toll road to Kualanamu Airport.
The Cemara Asri and Royal Sumatra complexes are emerging as popular options for expats who want larger houses, greener surroundings, and a more suburban feel while still being within reasonable distance of the city center.
Are expats moving in or leaving Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the expat population in Medan appears relatively stable, with flows driven more by corporate assignments and project cycles than by lifestyle migration trends.
The main factor drawing expats to Medan right now is the city's role as the commercial gateway to Sumatra, with opportunities in logistics, agribusiness, manufacturing, and mining-related industries that require specialized skills.
The main factor causing some expats to leave Medan is the limited international infrastructure compared to Jakarta or Bali, including fewer fully English-first services and a smaller expat social scene.
Compared to other Indonesian cities, Medan sees less of the digital nomad influx that places like Bali or Yogyakarta experience, making its expat community more corporate-focused and assignment-driven.
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What paperwork do I need to move to Medan in 2026?
What visa options are popular in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the three most popular visa types for expats moving to Medan are the work-sponsored KITAS (limited stay permit tied to employment), the business visa for short-term meetings and activities, and the retirement KITAS for those aged 55 and older who want to live in Indonesia without working.
The most commonly used expat visa in Medan is the work KITAS, which requires sponsorship from an Indonesian-registered company, a valid work permit (IMTA), relevant qualifications or experience, and a passport with at least 18 months validity.
Indonesia does offer a digital nomad visa (E33G Remote Worker Visa) that allows remote workers to live in the country for up to one year, but it requires proof of income, health insurance, and is less commonly used in Medan compared to work-sponsored arrangements.
Work KITAS permits in Medan are typically valid for six months to two years depending on the job type and can be renewed before expiration, with senior positions often qualifying for the longer 12-month permits that are extendable.
How long does it take to get residency in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the typical processing time for a work-sponsored KITAS (which functions as temporary residency) is approximately four to ten weeks from start to finish, assuming all documents are in order and the sponsoring company is well-prepared.
Common factors that can delay the residency process in Medan include incomplete documentation, slow employer preparation of the RPTKA (foreign worker utilization plan), or backlogs at immigration offices, while having an experienced visa agent and a proactive employer can speed things up considerably.
To become eligible for permanent residency (KITAP) in Indonesia, an expat must typically live in the country with a temporary KITAS for four consecutive years, or two years if married to an Indonesian citizen, after which the KITAP grants a five-year stay that can be renewed.
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Indonesia. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.
How hard is it to find a job in Medan in 2026?
Which industries are hiring the most in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the industries hiring the most around Medan include logistics and supply chain management, trading and distribution (especially for FMCG and industrial goods), agribusiness and plantation operations, and manufacturing or engineering project roles tied to Sumatra's resource economy.
Getting hired in Medan without speaking Bahasa Indonesia is realistic for senior technical roles, management positions in multinational companies, and jobs in international schools or NGOs, but even basic Indonesian will dramatically improve your daily effectiveness and job prospects.
The types of roles most accessible to foreign job seekers in Medan are specialist positions that require expertise not easily found locally, such as supply chain directors, plantation managers, engineering consultants, and senior corporate roles where the employer can justify sponsorship.
What salary ranges are common for expats in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, typical salary ranges for expats working in sponsored roles in Medan fall between IDR 35 million and 120 million per month gross (roughly 2,100 to 7,200 USD or 1,950 to 6,700 EUR), depending heavily on seniority and whether housing or schooling allowances are included.
Entry-level or mid-level expat positions in Medan generally pay between IDR 35 million and 60 million per month (2,100 to 3,600 USD or 1,950 to 3,350 EUR), which is enough for a comfortable lifestyle but not necessarily for expensive international school fees.
Senior or specialized expat roles in Medan, such as directors, engineering leads, or plantation managers, typically command IDR 60 million to 120 million per month or more (3,600 to 7,200 USD or 3,350 to 6,700 EUR), often with additional benefits like housing and car allowances.
Employers in Medan do sponsor work visas, but this happens most often when the role genuinely requires specialized expertise or is part of a multinational company's staffing plan, so sponsorship is not automatic for every position.
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What's daily life really like for expats in Medan right now?
What do expats love most about living in Medan right now?
Expats in Medan consistently praise three things: the incredible food culture (Sumatra is a serious culinary destination), the lower cost of living compared to Jakarta or Bali, and the warmth of local relationships once you build a trusted network.
The lifestyle benefit most frequently mentioned by expats in Medan is the ability to afford generous housing, domestic help, and regular dining out on salaries that would only cover basics in more expensive cities.
On the practical side, expats appreciate that Medan has all the essential infrastructure (malls, hospitals, ride-hailing apps, international schools) without the overwhelming scale and congestion of Jakarta.
Culturally, many expats find Medan rewarding because the city feels authentically Indonesian rather than curated for tourists, which allows for deeper immersion into local life and genuine friendships with Indonesian neighbors and colleagues.
What do expats dislike most about life in Medan right now?
The top complaints from expats in Medan are the daily traffic congestion and aggressive driving style, the limited availability of fully English-first services, and the relatively small expat social scene compared to Jakarta or Bali.
The daily inconvenience that frustrates expats the most in Medan is the unpredictable traffic combined with road conditions that vary widely, which can turn a short commute into an hour-long ordeal during peak times.
On the administrative side, expats often struggle with the opacity of bureaucratic processes, from setting up utilities to renewing permits, which is why having a trusted local helper, agent, or HR team makes such a big difference.
Most expats who stay in Medan consider these frustrations manageable rather than deal-breakers, especially once they establish routines, build relationships, and learn to navigate the city's quirks.
What are the biggest culture shocks in Medan right now?
The biggest culture shocks for expats moving to Medan include how much gets accomplished through personal relationships rather than formal processes, the flexible approach to time and schedules, and the importance of indirect communication even when directness might seem more efficient.
The social norm that surprises newcomers the most in Medan is the expectation that you will invest time in relationship-building before getting down to business, whether that means extended small talk with colleagues or multiple social visits before a deal can move forward.
The aspect of daily routines that takes the longest for expats to adjust to in Medan is the heat combined with the rhythm of the day, where early mornings and late afternoons are often the most productive times while midday slows down significantly.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Indonesia compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
Can I buy a home as a foreigner in Medan in 2026?
Can foreigners legally own property in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, foreigners in Medan cannot hold freehold land ownership (Hak Milik), but they can legally acquire use rights (Hak Pakai) or certain strata title arrangements that allow them to own apartments and houses under specific conditions.
The main restrictions for foreigners buying property in Medan include minimum price thresholds that vary by region, the requirement to hold a valid stay permit (KITAS or KITAP), and the need to work with a reputable notary (PPAT) to ensure the legal structure is correct rather than using informal nominee arrangements.
Foreigners in Medan can own apartments or houses built on Hak Pakai land, but they generally cannot own freehold land directly, and any purchase should be structured properly under the framework established by Government Regulation PP No. 18/2021.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing the whole property buying process for foreigners in Medan.
What is the average price per m² in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, the average price per square meter for residential property in Medan ranges from approximately IDR 10 million to 35 million (roughly 600 to 2,100 USD or 560 to 1,950 EUR per m²), with prime central neighborhoods commanding the higher end and outer areas sitting closer to IDR 6 to 12 million per m².
Property prices in Medan have shown modest growth over the past two to three years, generally tracking inflation and regional economic expansion, though the market remains more stable and affordable than the faster-moving markets in Jakarta or Bali.
Also, you'll find our latest property market analysis about Medan here.
Do banks give mortgages to foreigners in Medan in 2026?
As of early 2026, mortgages for foreigners in Medan are available but limited, with most banks requiring strong documentation, a valid long-term stay permit, and often a local income trail or established banking relationship.
Banks in Indonesia that have been known to work with foreign buyers include Bank Central Asia (BCA), Bank Mandiri, and CIMB Niaga, though each has its own eligibility criteria and not all branches may offer foreign mortgage products.
Typical mortgage conditions for foreigners in Medan include down payments of 30 to 50 percent, interest rates in the range of 8 to 12 percent per year, and maximum loan terms of 10 to 15 years, though these terms can vary significantly based on your profile and the property type.
To qualify for a mortgage in Medan, foreigners typically need a valid KITAS or KITAP, proof of income (ideally Indonesian-sourced), bank statements, a tax number (NPWP), and documentation of the property being purchased with proper legal title.
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What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Medan, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can … and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source | Why it's authoritative | How we used it |
|---|---|---|
| BPS Medan (City Statistics) | Official government statistics office for Medan city. | We used this to anchor 2026 price trends and inflation context for Medan. We then translated the inflation data into realistic budget and cost-of-living estimates. |
| Bank Indonesia (Inflation Targets) | Indonesia's central bank sets official monetary policy targets. | We used this as the macro framework for 2026 price expectations. We cross-referenced it with actual Medan CPI to assess whether costs are running hot or normal. |
| Bank Indonesia (Exchange Rates) | Official source for Indonesian rupiah exchange rates. | We used this to convert all IDR amounts to USD and EUR accurately. We applied January 2026 rates to keep conversions consistent throughout the article. |
| Medan Independent School | Official website of Medan's main IB international school. | We used this to identify a concrete school option and verify tuition ranges. We then built family budget estimates around actual school fee levels. |
| Siloam Hospitals Medan | Major private hospital chain with official facility information. | We used this to name a top-tier private healthcare option expats actually use. We then referenced it when discussing medical costs and insurance recommendations. |
| Indonesia Immigration (eVisa Portal) | Official government portal for visa applications and categories. | We used this to frame realistic visa pathways for foreigners in 2026. We then added practical timelines based on how the system actually works. |
| BPS Indonesia (Crime Statistics) | Official national statistics on crime combining police and survey data. | We used this to ground our safety assessment in official data rather than anecdotes. We then translated patterns into practical precautions for expats in Medan. |
| World Bank (Indonesia Economic Prospects) | Top-tier international institution with rigorous economic analysis. | We used this to describe Indonesia's macro direction and risks relevant to expats. We cross-checked it against local conditions to ensure our guidance is grounded. |
| BPS North Sumatra (Unemployment) | Province-level official labor market data for the Medan region. | We used this to assess how hard it is to find a job around Medan. We combined it with sector realities to give honest guidance on employment prospects. |
| Bank Indonesia (Property Price Index) | Official survey-based reporting on residential property prices. | We used this to ground housing price discussions in an official index. We then triangulated with local listing signals to estimate per-m² prices for Medan in 2026. |
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Indonesia. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
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