7 Best Neighbourhoods Around KL for Expats to Live In 2025

Whether you’re a digital nomad, a creative freelancer, or a young professional looking to build your life in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur has a neighbourhood for you. But where exactly should you settle to find the right balance between affordability, lifestyle, and convenience?

We’ve explored the city’s vibrant streets, parks, malls, and hidden corners to find the most liveable and expat-friendly areas. From buzzing café hubs to lush hillside retreats, here are the 7 best neighbourhoods around KL for expats—curated especially for Gen Z and Millennial readers ready to explore Malaysian city life to the fullest.

1. Mont Kiara: The Expatriate Enclave of KL

Mont Kiara is often referred to as “Little Seoul” or the “Beverly Hills of KL” for a reason. This luxury neighbourhood is known for:

High-rise serviced condos and gated landed homes
A large international community
Lifestyle malls like 1 Mont Kiara, Publika, and Arcoris

Expert Tip:
“If you’re relocating with kids or want to network with other international professionals, Mont Kiara is hands down the best place to start.” — Emily Tan, Property Consultant at PropSocial.

💡 Bonus: Don’t miss Society Mont Kiara’s pop-up weekend markets and rooftop dining spots for your dose of upscale living.

2. Bangsar: The OG Lifestyle Hotspot

If Mont Kiara is KL’s Beverly Hills, Bangsar is its artsy, urban cousin. Just 15 minutes from the city centre, Bangsar is packed with culture and character. Here’s why expats love it:

Bangsar Village I & II for boutique shopping
The best local food scene in KL (hello, banana leaf!)
Trendy nightlife spots like Coley and APW Bangsar
Weekend hikes at Bukit Gasing or chill café hopping

Pro Tip:
Avoid rush hours if you’re driving—Bangsar’s narrow roads can get jammed. But its walkability and proximity to the LRT make up for it.

3. Damansara Heights: Luxe, Leafy & Laidback

Looking for something quieter but still upscale? Damansara Heights is a hidden sanctuary.

Nestled between Bangsar and TTDI
Upscale housing, chic bungalows, and exclusive condos
Close to Pavilion Damansara Heights and The Five for curated dining
Ideal for nature lovers and morning joggers

“Damansara Heights blends the best of suburban calm with urban connectivity,” says local architect Jason Leong. “You’re minutes away from KL but feel worlds apart.”

4. TTDI: For the Local-Global Vibe

Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) is the bridge between KL and Petaling Jaya, offering an authentic yet modern Malaysian lifestyle.

Local vibes with a cosmopolitan touch
Home to TTDI Market and artisan cafés like Dough & Dolce
Pet-friendly parks and community trails
Quick drive to Bandar Utama, The Curve, and IKEA

🎉 TTDI is also known for its bar scene—check out The Pawn Room for speakeasy-style vibes.

💬 “For expats who want to live like locals and still enjoy modern comforts, TTDI hits the sweet spot,” says Nadia Rozlan, a long-term expat living in PJ.