Where renters live around Kuala Lumpur

The Klang Valley is large, and travel time matters more than distance on a map. Rooms within walking distance of an LRT or MRT station cost more than similar rooms a short drive away, and the difference is usually worth paying for anyone without a car.

Bukit Bintang

The centre of Kuala Lumpur, served by the monorail and the MRT Kajang Line. Rooms here are mostly in high-rise condominiums. It suits people who work in the city centre and want to walk to food and shops, and it is the most expensive area on this list.

Bangsar

An established neighbourhood on the LRT Kelana Jaya Line, a few stops from KL Sentral. It mixes older low-rise apartments with newer towers, and is popular with young professionals.

Petaling Jaya

A city in its own right to the west of Kuala Lumpur, with many terrace houses where each bedroom is rented separately. The LRT Kelana Jaya Line runs through it. Sections close to a station are the practical choice for commuters.

Subang Jaya

A student area. SS15 has its own LRT station and is home to several colleges, while the Bandar Sunway side is linked by the BRT Sunway Line. Rooms are plentiful and turn over with the academic calendar, so the best ones go a few weeks before each intake.

Cheras

A wide district south-east of the centre along the MRT Kajang Line. It is more affordable than the city centre and has a large supply of rooms in both apartments and landed houses.

Setapak

North-east of the centre and known for student housing, with rail access from Wangsa Maju on the LRT Kelana Jaya Line. Rents are among the lowest for an area this close to the city.

Mont Kiara

A condominium district popular with expatriate families. It has no rail station of its own, so it suits people who drive or rely on ride-hailing. Rooms here tend to be in well-kept buildings with full facilities.

Once an area is chosen, read how renting works before contacting landlords.