How to make Jakarta your (temporary) home
Written by Esti McMillan, Dec 2020
It’s not a secret: There are cities on our planet that are easier to live in than Jakarta. Pollution, traffic chaos, a non existing public transport system combined with the yearly rainy season that regularly floods big parts of the city and the blistering heat during the dry season.
I am originally from Indonesia but I have spent big parts of my life in other countries. When the decision came that our family would be moving from Australia to Jakarta because of my husband’s job, I wasn’t very happy in the beginning. I came back to Indonesia in 1997 and I have made this city my home. And over the years I have helped countless families to find their (temporary) home in Jakarta. No, this city is not easy, but if you manage to find the right house or apartment in the right neighborhood for you it’s totally a city where you can feel home. |
Related articles:
|
It’s all about you and your needs
In fact, Jakarta has a lot on offer regarding housing. Compared to most other Asian countries, the rental prices are quite affordable and spacious, actually the rental prices even went down over the last few years.
Especially if you are new to the city, you should find out first, which area is the best for you to live in. This mainly depends on your expectations and needs as well as on your lifestyle. You just need to know what you want.
Whenever clients approach me to help them with their home search, we first find out together what he or she and his or her family want. Once we have defined this, we can narrow down the options and start with a targeted house research.
Especially if you are new to the city, you should find out first, which area is the best for you to live in. This mainly depends on your expectations and needs as well as on your lifestyle. You just need to know what you want.
Whenever clients approach me to help them with their home search, we first find out together what he or she and his or her family want. Once we have defined this, we can narrow down the options and start with a targeted house research.
Basic 1:
House or apartment, compound our stand-alone house: That’s where your decision making process starts.
Apartments
In most of its parts, Jakarta feels more like a huge accumulation of countless rather low houses. There are far less skyscrapers than in most other capital cities in Asia. This means, living on a high floor in an apartment building will most probably grant you with a free sight over the city. Especially during the last few years the city has been adding up on modern apartment buildings equipped with all the amenities you would wish for. Apartment buildings usually offer spacious common areas such as gyms, pools, gardens. Living up in the air also means an escape from the pollution and the heat and the always present mosquitos. However, you should take into account that apartment rents tend to be higher than the rent of houses. Also, many apartment buildings don’t allow dogs on their premises.
Compound
Most expat areas in Jakarta have bigger or smaller compounds on offer. This option is often the best for families with smaller kids: You are living in your own house, but in a safe environment with play streets, green common spaces, play grounds, swimming pools - and usually a big neighborhood community. Your kids can enjoy something that’s actually not possible in a city like Jakarta: They can move freely and on their own, they can meet friends whenever they want, they have space to move and many kids to make friends with. Another plus, of course, is the security aspect. Compared to years ago, cases of burglary declined. But they are still there and in a compound you usually have security service 24 hours a day.
Stand alone house
Living in a spacious stand alone house with a garden and a pool - that’s the “traditional” style of living in Jakarta as an expat. Usually, a stand alone house is the option that will provide you with the most for your money. If you come from a country or a city where housing in a freestanding house is just not possible or not affordable, this way of living might feel like paradise for you. Services like gardening, security and maintenance can usually be organized easily in Jakarta.
Basic 2:
Finding the right neighborhood
with reasonable distance from home to work and to school
Once you know how you want to live it’s time to think about where your new home should be located best. Don’t forget to check the distance of your potential new home to your workplace as well as your kids’ school.
Veronika's recommendations:
1) Check distance from home to school and to work (children might have after-school activities and might need to go to school 2x a day)
2) Check mosques proximity and their sound (some expats found an ideal house, but the sound of mosque 5x a day was too much for them)
3) Check that your house is not in a flooding area (e.g. Pondok Indah is not very affected by floods, some areas of Kemang might be)
1) Check distance from home to school and to work (children might have after-school activities and might need to go to school 2x a day)
2) Check mosques proximity and their sound (some expats found an ideal house, but the sound of mosque 5x a day was too much for them)
3) Check that your house is not in a flooding area (e.g. Pondok Indah is not very affected by floods, some areas of Kemang might be)
This article will give you an overview about the main expat living quarters in Jakarta, about their pros and cons and about their specialties. It hopefully helps you to make a reasoned decision on your new home in Jakarta.
Areas:
1. Kemang - Excitement and comfort just a footstep away
2. Pondok Indah - Wide roads with elegant and spacious houses
3. Kebayoran Baru - Striking homes in an exclusive surrounding
4. Cipete - Large houses with garden
5. Cilandak - Good houses and compounds for reasonable prices
6. Senayan - Urban lifestyle in upscale apartment buildings
7. Menteng - Shady tropical streets, colloquial style houses and traditional villas in a prestigious area
8. Kuningan - Living where life happens
9. BSD - Living in Jakarta Suburbia - with all the pros and cons
1. Kemang - Excitement and comfort just a footstep away
2. Pondok Indah - Wide roads with elegant and spacious houses
3. Kebayoran Baru - Striking homes in an exclusive surrounding
4. Cipete - Large houses with garden
5. Cilandak - Good houses and compounds for reasonable prices
6. Senayan - Urban lifestyle in upscale apartment buildings
7. Menteng - Shady tropical streets, colloquial style houses and traditional villas in a prestigious area
8. Kuningan - Living where life happens
9. BSD - Living in Jakarta Suburbia - with all the pros and cons
1. Kemang - Excitement and comfort just a footstep away
Kemang is probably one of the most famous expat areas in the South of Jakarta. It’s a popular area to live in. Walking around the streets of central Kemang you might feel a bit like being in an international laid back village. You will find a big choice of restaurants, cafes, bars, supermarkets here.
Kemang offers many different ways of living: houses, compounds and apartments. In Kemang Dalam, which is the center of this area, you will find spacious houses with gardens in rather quiet laid back neighborhoods. Especially in the afternoons and during weekends you will see many people walking their dogs or doing their outdoor exercise in the streets of Kemang Dalam.
Several international schools are located in Kemang, like Australian Independent School (AIS), Academic Colleges Group (ACG), and New Zealand Intercultural School (NZIS). Other international schools, like Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS) are accessible from Kemang.
Lippo Mall Kemang is located at the edge of Kemang. You will find a big selection of brands here as well as a gym and a cinema. Lippo Mall also offers a big selection of restaurants with outside seating.
One thing you have to know about Kemang is the traffic. Depending on the time of the day, the main streets of Kemang can become heavily congested and it might happen that you need half an hour for a distance of just a few kilometers. Especially Friday night, you can get locked in the traffic as Kemang is also a favorite nightlife spot.
Rental fees in Kemang start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 6000.
Kemang offers many different ways of living: houses, compounds and apartments. In Kemang Dalam, which is the center of this area, you will find spacious houses with gardens in rather quiet laid back neighborhoods. Especially in the afternoons and during weekends you will see many people walking their dogs or doing their outdoor exercise in the streets of Kemang Dalam.
Several international schools are located in Kemang, like Australian Independent School (AIS), Academic Colleges Group (ACG), and New Zealand Intercultural School (NZIS). Other international schools, like Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS) are accessible from Kemang.
Lippo Mall Kemang is located at the edge of Kemang. You will find a big selection of brands here as well as a gym and a cinema. Lippo Mall also offers a big selection of restaurants with outside seating.
One thing you have to know about Kemang is the traffic. Depending on the time of the day, the main streets of Kemang can become heavily congested and it might happen that you need half an hour for a distance of just a few kilometers. Especially Friday night, you can get locked in the traffic as Kemang is also a favorite nightlife spot.
Rental fees in Kemang start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 6000.
Apartment buildings in Kemang:
Kemang Village Residences: Connected to Lippo Mall Kemang, this rather new apartment building is located at the edge of Kemang with direct access to many restaurants, shops and supermarkets
Apartment Nirvana Kemang: Located on Kemang Raya, probably the busiest street in Kemang, close to many restaurants and shops, in walking distance to the New Zealand School.
Kemang Jaya Apartment: Located on Jalan Kemang Selatan VIII, the area inside of the compound is very green, but the apartment itself is quite dated and not so desirable anymore.
Then there are few other small and older apartment complexes which have not been so popular with expats.
Apartment Nirvana Kemang: Located on Kemang Raya, probably the busiest street in Kemang, close to many restaurants and shops, in walking distance to the New Zealand School.
Kemang Jaya Apartment: Located on Jalan Kemang Selatan VIII, the area inside of the compound is very green, but the apartment itself is quite dated and not so desirable anymore.
Then there are few other small and older apartment complexes which have not been so popular with expats.
Compounds in Kemang:
Kemang Club Villas: Located in Kemang Dalam, the green center of Kemang and it is the biggest compound in Kemang. One of the older compounds with most complete facilities but rather small houses. Many expats decide for this compound because of the great neighborhood with many families and kids and because of the great common areas. Dogs are allowed.
There are a few smaller compounds around Kemang Dalam with around six houses each. The houses have normally standard 4 bedrooms plus study, and each house has its own private pool but no other facilities like Kemang Club Villa.
Lembong compounds: Located on the outer of Kemang Dalam, around Kemang Timur and Pejaten Barat area, Lembong compounds are like townhouses with some green area and playground facilities inside the compound.
There are a few smaller compounds around Kemang Dalam with around six houses each. The houses have normally standard 4 bedrooms plus study, and each house has its own private pool but no other facilities like Kemang Club Villa.
Lembong compounds: Located on the outer of Kemang Dalam, around Kemang Timur and Pejaten Barat area, Lembong compounds are like townhouses with some green area and playground facilities inside the compound.
Freestanding houses in Kemang:
The best area to look for a freestanding house in Kemang is Kemang Dalam. The streets in Kemang Dalam are rather quiet and green. Most houses are equipped with a garden and a pool. Kemang Dalam used to be an expat neighborhood since the 1980ies. Some of the houses are older but you can see more and more new modern houses replacing them.
2. Pondok Indah - Wide roads with elegant and spacious houses
Many families whose kids attend Jakarta International School (JIS) opt for Pondok Indah. This area once used to be full of plantations but it has been developed in a wonderful residential area with clean and elegant streets and wide sidewalks. One thing you have to know though is that many houses in this area are surrounded by high walls and they usually have very little or no garden.
Besides the easy access to JIS, you are also close to many possibilities to spend your free time in Pondok Indah. There is for example the Houbii Urban Adventure Park (Indonesia's biggest Trampoline Park) which is very popular with kids and teens and there is the Pondok Indah Golf Course. Shopping wise you will find everything you need at Pondok Indah Mall I & II, which is one of the biggest malls in Jakarta, equipped with brand stores, department stores, supermarkets and restaurants.
In Pondok Indah, rental costs start from USD 3500 and range up to USD 10,000 (in Bukit Golf area).
Besides the easy access to JIS, you are also close to many possibilities to spend your free time in Pondok Indah. There is for example the Houbii Urban Adventure Park (Indonesia's biggest Trampoline Park) which is very popular with kids and teens and there is the Pondok Indah Golf Course. Shopping wise you will find everything you need at Pondok Indah Mall I & II, which is one of the biggest malls in Jakarta, equipped with brand stores, department stores, supermarkets and restaurants.
In Pondok Indah, rental costs start from USD 3500 and range up to USD 10,000 (in Bukit Golf area).
Apartment buildings in Pondok Indah:
Pondok Indah Residence: this is the latest apartment block being developed right in Pondok Indah adjacent to Pondok Indah Mall 3 (will be open soon), InterContinental Hotel and Pondok Indah Mall 1 & 2. It is also located within 5 min drive to Jakarta Intercultural School.
Pondok Indah Golf Apartment (PIGA): this complex has traditionally been very popular with Japanese families, also few JIS families as only 5 min to JIS, a very spacious complex overlooking the Pondok Indah Golf Course.
The rest are older apartment blocks such as Bukit Golf Apartment, Greenview, Hampton and Bumimas Apartment, all within close distance to JIS.
Pondok Indah Golf Apartment (PIGA): this complex has traditionally been very popular with Japanese families, also few JIS families as only 5 min to JIS, a very spacious complex overlooking the Pondok Indah Golf Course.
The rest are older apartment blocks such as Bukit Golf Apartment, Greenview, Hampton and Bumimas Apartment, all within close distance to JIS.
Compounds in Pondok Indah:
There are really no compounds of houses in Pondok Indah other than one compound of 6 houses right next to Jakarta Intercultural School with its own access direct to the main gate of JIS.
Older compound of Lembong just behind the Ericson tower, it is more like townhouses of around 10 of them.
Older compound of Lembong just behind the Ericson tower, it is more like townhouses of around 10 of them.
Freestanding houses in Pondok Indah:
Areas popular with the expats are the ones closer to JIS site.
The other side of Pondok Indah is less desirable, but you can find some big houses also some small houses where Indonesian families live.
Most houses in Pondok Indah have the classic elegant style, with high pillars, and often they are called “The White House” style of houses. Finding minimalist houses in Pondok Indah is very difficult and rare.
The other side of Pondok Indah is less desirable, but you can find some big houses also some small houses where Indonesian families live.
Most houses in Pondok Indah have the classic elegant style, with high pillars, and often they are called “The White House” style of houses. Finding minimalist houses in Pondok Indah is very difficult and rare.
3. Kebayoran Baru - Striking homes in an exclusive surrounding
If you are working in the Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD), Kebayoran Baru is a good option for you to live.
SCBD is the economic centre of Jakarta. Many national and international companies have their offices here. Pacific Place is a very modern shopping mall with many exclusive brands and restaurants and a well equipped supermarket in the basement. The Jakarta Ritz-Carlton Hotel is located on top of Pacific Place. The area also offers countless restaurants, bars, cafes.
In the south, busy Kebayoran Baru turns into a green suburban area with parks and gardens. Due to its location in the middle of the city, this living quarter tends to be more expensive compared to other areas.
You usually find here two types of houses: There are luxurious one comparable to those in Pondok Indah and then there are older houses that usually still have their big lush gardens.
There are also some upscale apartment buildings located in this area, that have a lot of common space and facilities on offer.
Well-known areas in Kebayoran Baru are Senopati, Wijaya, Dharmawangsa and Pakubuwono. Many politicians, business owners and ambassadors have their home in these upscale areas.
Senopati is also known for its restaurants and nightlife.
In Kebayoran Baru rental fees start from USD 3500 and can go up to USD 15000.
SCBD is the economic centre of Jakarta. Many national and international companies have their offices here. Pacific Place is a very modern shopping mall with many exclusive brands and restaurants and a well equipped supermarket in the basement. The Jakarta Ritz-Carlton Hotel is located on top of Pacific Place. The area also offers countless restaurants, bars, cafes.
In the south, busy Kebayoran Baru turns into a green suburban area with parks and gardens. Due to its location in the middle of the city, this living quarter tends to be more expensive compared to other areas.
You usually find here two types of houses: There are luxurious one comparable to those in Pondok Indah and then there are older houses that usually still have their big lush gardens.
There are also some upscale apartment buildings located in this area, that have a lot of common space and facilities on offer.
Well-known areas in Kebayoran Baru are Senopati, Wijaya, Dharmawangsa and Pakubuwono. Many politicians, business owners and ambassadors have their home in these upscale areas.
Senopati is also known for its restaurants and nightlife.
In Kebayoran Baru rental fees start from USD 3500 and can go up to USD 15000.
Apartment buildings in Kebayoran Baru:
Senopati Suite: boutique apartment building with strategic location to Jalan Sudirman as well as Jalan Senopati while still very close to Kemang area.
District 8: this is a reasonably new apartment building completed about 2 years ago.
Senopati 8: older and not so popular with expats
Capital Residence
Pacific Place Residence: high end apartment, spacious 500 m2 4 bedroom apartment adjacent to Pacific Place Mall.
Pakubuwono Residence: high rise apartment complex very popular with expats as good distance to international schools and good facilities.
Pakubuwono Signature: spacious 4 bedrooms plus study more boutique apartment next to Pakubuwono Residence.
Pakubuwono View, Pakubuwono Spring (latest project), Pakubuwono House
1 Park Residence: popular with Japanese expats
District 8: this is a reasonably new apartment building completed about 2 years ago.
Senopati 8: older and not so popular with expats
Capital Residence
Pacific Place Residence: high end apartment, spacious 500 m2 4 bedroom apartment adjacent to Pacific Place Mall.
Pakubuwono Residence: high rise apartment complex very popular with expats as good distance to international schools and good facilities.
Pakubuwono Signature: spacious 4 bedrooms plus study more boutique apartment next to Pakubuwono Residence.
Pakubuwono View, Pakubuwono Spring (latest project), Pakubuwono House
1 Park Residence: popular with Japanese expats
Compounds in Kebayoran Baru:
There is no compound in Kebayoran Baru except one small compound of townhouses in Jalan Tulodong Bawah.
Freestanding houses in Kebayoran Baru:
Kebayoran Baru in the Sriwijaya area has many big houses, and very expensive, a lot of them occupied by Ambassadors and very high end expatriates.
On the Erlangga side of Kebayoran Baru, houses are more compact, often just pool no garden or small garden no pool. The houses there are cheaper than the Sriwijaya side.
Kebayoran Baru in the Dharmawangsa side also is also very expensive and hard to find houses for rental as many of the houses occupied by wealthy Indonesians.
On the Erlangga side of Kebayoran Baru, houses are more compact, often just pool no garden or small garden no pool. The houses there are cheaper than the Sriwijaya side.
Kebayoran Baru in the Dharmawangsa side also is also very expensive and hard to find houses for rental as many of the houses occupied by wealthy Indonesians.
4. Cipete - Large houses with garden
Cipete and also Cilandak have been established as expat areas over the last decades. Both areas are located with good access to the toll roads. From Cipete you can reach the business areas of Kuningan, Sudirman, Senayan via a flyover avoiding the typical Kemang traffic. It’s basically located next to Kemang. Besides that, Cipete has a MRT station. Taking the MRT line which has opened only in 2019 is the fastest way to reach the business areas and get towards the North of Jakarta.
Over the last years Cipete has developed quite a selection of nice restaurants and cafes itself. On the other hand you will still find a big selection of food stalls and vendors with Indonesian dishes from all over the country that are worth trying (don’t forget to check on cleanliness though).
Houses in Cipete are very often tailored to the needs and taste of expats and you will find many options with a spacious garden and pool. There is also a small selection of compounds and housing complexes available.
Some of the streets in Cipete are narrow and difficult to navigate, that might be worth considering if you are driving yourself.
Since the French International School Jakarta is located in the heart of Cipete, the French community is pretty big and you will also find delicacies and products from France in Cipete’s small shops and boutiques.
There is also a good selection of spas and salons located in Cipete.
In Cipete rental fees start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 6000.
Over the last years Cipete has developed quite a selection of nice restaurants and cafes itself. On the other hand you will still find a big selection of food stalls and vendors with Indonesian dishes from all over the country that are worth trying (don’t forget to check on cleanliness though).
Houses in Cipete are very often tailored to the needs and taste of expats and you will find many options with a spacious garden and pool. There is also a small selection of compounds and housing complexes available.
Some of the streets in Cipete are narrow and difficult to navigate, that might be worth considering if you are driving yourself.
Since the French International School Jakarta is located in the heart of Cipete, the French community is pretty big and you will also find delicacies and products from France in Cipete’s small shops and boutiques.
There is also a good selection of spas and salons located in Cipete.
In Cipete rental fees start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 6000.
Apartment buildings in Cipete:
No apartment buildings in Cipete as mostly all houses, whether they are in compounds or stand alone ones.
Compounds in Cipete:
Lembong compound in Asam Dua located within walking distance to French school.
Veranda Private Villas : it is located in North Cipete, this compound has beautiful green space, nice landscaped garden, there are 3 bedrooms townhouses mostly in the Veranda 1 and 4 bedroom townhouses in Veranda 2. It is close to MRT station and it takes about 10 minutes to the French School and 20 minutes to JIS.
Several small compounds of 3 to 5 houses are located in this area within short distance to French school.
Veranda Private Villas : it is located in North Cipete, this compound has beautiful green space, nice landscaped garden, there are 3 bedrooms townhouses mostly in the Veranda 1 and 4 bedroom townhouses in Veranda 2. It is close to MRT station and it takes about 10 minutes to the French School and 20 minutes to JIS.
Several small compounds of 3 to 5 houses are located in this area within short distance to French school.
Freestanding houses in Cipete:
There are many freestanding houses around Cipete suitable for expats and within close distance to French school, JIS and easy access to toll roads for going to British School.
Expat houses in general are cheaper in Cipete than in Kemang, some are quite spacious with big gardens.
Expat houses in general are cheaper in Cipete than in Kemang, some are quite spacious with big gardens.
5. Cilandak - Good houses and compounds for reasonable prices
Cilandak, like Cipete, is located close to the toll road so you can get anywhere very easily and avoid the worst traffic. Cilandak is north of the toll road, areas like Lebak Bulus, Fatmawati and also Kemang are easily reachable.
If you have a smaller budget but don’t want to compromise on size and quality, Cilandak might be a good option for you. You will find mainly stand alone houses with spacious gardens.
Cilandak has mostly stand-alone houses and compounds. Here you get better value for money, with large homes and good-sized gardens. On the other hand, Cilandak doesn’t give you the villagey feeling that you have in Kemang where you might bump into friends and acquaintances while running your errands.
There is one mall in the area which is popular with Indonesians as well as expats: Cilandak Town Square or CITOS. You will find a good selection of restaurants and cafes there as well a book store and a supermarket. There is also a gym and a cinema located in CITOS. Cilandak is a rather low key area, but very convenient for those who want to get around the city.
In Cilandak rental fees start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 6000.
If you have a smaller budget but don’t want to compromise on size and quality, Cilandak might be a good option for you. You will find mainly stand alone houses with spacious gardens.
Cilandak has mostly stand-alone houses and compounds. Here you get better value for money, with large homes and good-sized gardens. On the other hand, Cilandak doesn’t give you the villagey feeling that you have in Kemang where you might bump into friends and acquaintances while running your errands.
There is one mall in the area which is popular with Indonesians as well as expats: Cilandak Town Square or CITOS. You will find a good selection of restaurants and cafes there as well a book store and a supermarket. There is also a gym and a cinema located in CITOS. Cilandak is a rather low key area, but very convenient for those who want to get around the city.
In Cilandak rental fees start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 6000.
Apartment buildings in Cilandak:
There are not many high end apartment buildings in Cilandak, mostly older apartments. But some new developments are starting to come up, such as South Quarter Apt.
Bumimas Apartment: older and popular with Japanese expats, there is Japanese supermarket next door to it.
Hampton Apartment: mid range type apartment but located walking distance to JIS.
Bumimas Apartment: older and popular with Japanese expats, there is Japanese supermarket next door to it.
Hampton Apartment: mid range type apartment but located walking distance to JIS.
Compounds in Cilandak:
Executive Paradise / Astoria : Biggest and most complete compound for expatriates. Located close to the toll road for easy access to British School (BSJ) and JIS, also from the back gate of their newer compound Astoria, you can walk to Nord Anglia School (NAS).
Cilandak Tengah II compound of Lembong in Jalan Cilandak Tengah just behind Cilandak Town Square is popular with expats as it is very near toll road for expat families with children going to BSJ, JIS and still close to French school too.
Atmaya Compound : the only high end compound in South Jakarta for expats, smaller than Executive Paradise, but the compound has community pool and gym with nice tropical style houses, townhouses and low rise apartments and beautifully landscaped garden.
Cilandak Tengah II compound of Lembong in Jalan Cilandak Tengah just behind Cilandak Town Square is popular with expats as it is very near toll road for expat families with children going to BSJ, JIS and still close to French school too.
Atmaya Compound : the only high end compound in South Jakarta for expats, smaller than Executive Paradise, but the compound has community pool and gym with nice tropical style houses, townhouses and low rise apartments and beautifully landscaped garden.
Freestanding houses in Cilandak:
Cilandak is quite wide spread and divided by the toll road, so north of Cilandak is more preferred by expatriates than south of Cilandak (Lebak Bulus area).
Many stand alone houses with great floor plans designed for expat needs are available in the Cilandak area, some tropical style, some classic elegant, but also the houses have normally big gardens.
Many stand alone houses with great floor plans designed for expat needs are available in the Cilandak area, some tropical style, some classic elegant, but also the houses have normally big gardens.
6. Senayan - Urban lifestyle in upscale apartment buildings
The neighborhoods we have been describing so far are all located in Jakarta’s south, tucked away from the center and the hustle and bustle of Indonesia’s capital city. Senayan is on the brink between south and central Jakarta. If you choose to live here you are usually in a good position to reach any place located in the business district. There are plenty of upscale malls, restaurants and office buildings close by. Senayan is the area where Jakarta really feels like a modern world city - the density of skyscrapers, flyovers, modern shopping malls is nowhere higher than here.
But Senayan also has quite some green space on offer around the big sports stadium which is located in the heart of Senayan. Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (formerly Gelora Senayan Main Stadium) was originally built to host parts of the Asian Games 1962. It has been reshaped and refurbished several times to suit big sports events and a major part of the Asian Games 2019 were held here. The spacious parklike area around Gelora Bung Karno Stadium has been developed as a green outside activities park for the public.
Residing in Senayan usually means living in an upscale apartment overlooking the city. There is also quite a selection available on serviced apartments in this area, which is interesting for families who have just arrived and are still waiting for their furniture as well as for expats traveling light.
In Senayan rental fees start from USD 4000 and can go up to USD 8000.
But Senayan also has quite some green space on offer around the big sports stadium which is located in the heart of Senayan. Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (formerly Gelora Senayan Main Stadium) was originally built to host parts of the Asian Games 1962. It has been reshaped and refurbished several times to suit big sports events and a major part of the Asian Games 2019 were held here. The spacious parklike area around Gelora Bung Karno Stadium has been developed as a green outside activities park for the public.
Residing in Senayan usually means living in an upscale apartment overlooking the city. There is also quite a selection available on serviced apartments in this area, which is interesting for families who have just arrived and are still waiting for their furniture as well as for expats traveling light.
In Senayan rental fees start from USD 4000 and can go up to USD 8000.
Apartment buildings in Senayan:
Plaza Senayan Apartment: next to Plaza Senayan Mall, it is one of the highly desirable apartments as it’s very central and with good management.
Senayan City Apartment: adjacent to Senayan City Mall and some of the units overlooking the Senayan Golf Course so very green and also central location.
Senayan City Apartment: adjacent to Senayan City Mall and some of the units overlooking the Senayan Golf Course so very green and also central location.
Compounds in Senayan:
No compounds for expatriates in Senayan, there is Senayan Residence compound but mostly all wealthy Indonesian live there.
Freestanding houses in Senayan:
Finding expat houses in Senayan area is also not so easy, as many are occupied by wealthy Indonesians. Some area of Senayan such as Hang Lekir area, you may find few houses rented to expatriates.
7. Menteng - Shady tropical streets, colloquial style houses and traditional villas in a prestigious area
Menteng is home to the political elite of Indonesia. Many embassies, museums and cultural facilities are located in this upscale neighborhood. You will find wide tree lined quiet streets in this area. In the early 19th century, Menteng was established as a residential area for the Dutch as well as for high officials. Although most old buildings have been replaced, the area still feels full of history. As green and shady and laid back as it is, Menteng is also bordering the central business districts which means that you can combine both worlds.
With most of the international schools moving further south or even out of the city, Menteng has lost its interest for expat families a bit. Living in Menteng might be a bit more expensive than living in the south of Jakarta but it will also give you a bit of a colonial feeling and probably a spacious house with an even more spacious garden.
With most of the international schools moving further south or even out of the city, Menteng has lost its interest for expat families a bit. Living in Menteng might be a bit more expensive than living in the south of Jakarta but it will also give you a bit of a colonial feeling and probably a spacious house with an even more spacious garden.
Apartment buildings in Menteng:
Apartment Menteng Executive: older apartment but popular still with many embassy families.
Fraser Residence Menteng: serviced apartment for temporary short or long stay. Pets are allowed.
Kempinski Apartment: luxury apartment adjacent to Grand Indonesia and across the road from Plaza Indonesia which is a high end mall.
Several other apartment buildings nearby, from low, mid range to high end.
Fraser Residence Menteng: serviced apartment for temporary short or long stay. Pets are allowed.
Kempinski Apartment: luxury apartment adjacent to Grand Indonesia and across the road from Plaza Indonesia which is a high end mall.
Several other apartment buildings nearby, from low, mid range to high end.
Compounds in Menteng:
No housing compounds in Menteng as it is a very established old area and there is no space left for compounds.
Freestanding houses in Menteng:
Many freestanding houses in Menteng, the rental can be low for very old dated houses, to a very high rental for ambassadors or other high profile expatriates.
Many wealthy Indonesians live in Menteng.
Houses are typically modern classic type with occasionally you find minimalist style, but the newer houses tend to have no garden as land has become so expensive in Menteng.
Many wealthy Indonesians live in Menteng.
Houses are typically modern classic type with occasionally you find minimalist style, but the newer houses tend to have no garden as land has become so expensive in Menteng.
8. Kuningan - Living where life happens
Kuningan is actually one of Jakarta’s business centers. Kuningan is part of Jakarta’s Golden Triangle which includes Jalan Rasuna Said, Jalan Jendral Sudirman and Jalan Jendral Gatot Subroto. A lot of the business, financial, and diplomatic establishments are located in this area, which is therefore also the center of the city. So, living in Kuningan you live where it happens: business, livestyle, entertainment.
Kuningan is probably not the perfect place for families with kids, but for those who want to live close to work and enjoy the nightlife and upscale restaurants it’s a great choice. Kuningan offers many choices of modern, well equipped apartment buildings.
In Kuningan rental fees start from USD 3500 and can go up to USD 8000.
Kuningan is probably not the perfect place for families with kids, but for those who want to live close to work and enjoy the nightlife and upscale restaurants it’s a great choice. Kuningan offers many choices of modern, well equipped apartment buildings.
In Kuningan rental fees start from USD 3500 and can go up to USD 8000.
Apartment buildings in Kuningan:
Verde 1 and Verde 2: these are luxury apartments and popular with expatriates. Now the surrounding has become more equipped with mall, supermarkets, restaurants not too far from the apartments.
Skygarden Apartment: Part of Fraser group development and located very conveniently to many offices and embassies.
Fraser Residence/The Peak: located between Sudirman and Kuningan, it is also very popular with expats working in CBD and for embassies.
Anandamaya Apartment: very new luxury apartment located very near of many embassies.
And many other older and mid range apartments in Mega Kuningan area.
Skygarden Apartment: Part of Fraser group development and located very conveniently to many offices and embassies.
Fraser Residence/The Peak: located between Sudirman and Kuningan, it is also very popular with expats working in CBD and for embassies.
Anandamaya Apartment: very new luxury apartment located very near of many embassies.
And many other older and mid range apartments in Mega Kuningan area.
Compounds in Kuningan:
No real compound in Kuningan but in Patra Jasa area you can find some kind of semi compounds. Traditionally, many Ambassadors live in Patra Jasa area and the houses of most of them are owned by Pertamina (Government owned oil company). The area became a bit run down several years ago, but now they are refurbishing all those old houses and built gated community houses to cater for many embassy families.
Freestanding houses in Kuningan:
There are stand alone houses in Patra Jasa area owned by private owners not part of Patra Jasa Management.
Also around Mega Kuningan area side, there are some houses available for expats but the numbers are very limited and either very expensive or very old and dated.
Also around Mega Kuningan area side, there are some houses available for expats but the numbers are very limited and either very expensive or very old and dated.
9. BSD - Living in Jakarta Suburbia - with all the pros and cons
BSD stands for Bumi Serpong Damai. And actually, BSD is not even part of Jakarta anymore, it belongs to the city administration of Tangerang west of Jakarta. The district has developed over the last two decades as the city just got too small and too expensive. There are several economic hubs located in BSD and Tangerang; companies, factories and also a variety of international schools have found attractive investment possibilities in the outskirts of Jakarta.
BSD has a lot of advantages, especially for families with kids: There is a lot of space, there is a lot of green, there is less traffic and there are many modern compounds with spacious houses and gardens and safe zones for kids. And on top of it, rental prices are significantly lower than in the city center. Several malls have been built in BSD over the last years with many brands, supermarkets, restaurants on offer. So if you decide to live there, there is actually no reason to visit the congested city of Jakarta anymore. The German School Jakarta as well as the British School Jakarta have both moved in the direction of Tangerang, so the commute for school kids is convenient.
One downside though we have to mention: Due to the high density of factories the air quality in BSD is often even worse than in areas like Kemang.
In BSD rental fees start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 4000.
BSD has a lot of advantages, especially for families with kids: There is a lot of space, there is a lot of green, there is less traffic and there are many modern compounds with spacious houses and gardens and safe zones for kids. And on top of it, rental prices are significantly lower than in the city center. Several malls have been built in BSD over the last years with many brands, supermarkets, restaurants on offer. So if you decide to live there, there is actually no reason to visit the congested city of Jakarta anymore. The German School Jakarta as well as the British School Jakarta have both moved in the direction of Tangerang, so the commute for school kids is convenient.
One downside though we have to mention: Due to the high density of factories the air quality in BSD is often even worse than in areas like Kemang.
In BSD rental fees start from USD 2000 and can go up to USD 4000.
Apartment buildings in BSD:
Branz: Japanese inspired design
Aeon: adjacent to the big mall Aeon
Several other small apartment complexes.
Aeon: adjacent to the big mall Aeon
Several other small apartment complexes.
Compounds in BSD:
There are few compounds in BSD that are suitable for expats, such as Countrywood Residences, Green Cove, Habitat Terrace Residence and Vanya Park.
Freestanding houses in BSD:
Most houses in BSD are located in clusters of complexes as it is a well planned satellite city.
Esti McMillan is originally from Indonesia. She studied, lived and raised her family In Australia before relocating with her family to Jakarta 1997. Esti is familiar with the local Indonesian lifestyle but she also sees life through her perspective being an expat herself and she knows first-hand what it is like to uproot your family and move internationally. EMC Relocations International was founded in 2003 out of a passion for making that journey as easy as possible for newcomers. Esti knows and understands the needs and expectations of expats and she is able to tailor individual solutions.
With her wealth of knowledge, Esti became something of a local guru for all things about living in Jakarta and Indonesia. So, if you are looking for a new home in Jakarta - or if you have any kind of question regarding living in this city: Ask Esti. She will be able to assist from housing to schooling to finding the right doctor to finding the right hair dresser. Esti and her colleagues at EMC Relocations International are your one-stop-solution for building Jakarta as your new home. |
Get in touch with Esti via phone or WA: +62 811 949 235.
Or find out more info about EMC Relocations International at www.emcindonesia.com. |