Andrew Taylor, 70, shares his experience of retiring in Malaysia for a fraction of US costs
He used to work in admin and started thinking about retirement in his mid-fifties. But the high living costs in the US made it seem impossible. “I realized I’d have to work until I was 80 if I stayed,” he said.
After learning about the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa program, he decided to give it a shot. The program, aimed at attracting retirees, has changed a bit over the years, but it was just what he needed.
In 2015, he packed up and moved from Washington, D.C., where he had lived for 40 years. He spent seven years in Penang before settling in Kuala Lumpur three years ago.
Taylor found his current apartment in just one weekend. He loves the view from the 22nd floor, where he can see the iconic Twin Towers. His rent is 2,800 Malaysian ringgit, and he chose an unfurnished place this time to decorate it his way.
He’s got a mix of modern and traditional decor, and the condo complex has great amenities like a pool and gym. Taylor enjoys riding around the city on his Vespa and plans to keep renting for now.
He’s not alone in this choice. Many Americans are looking to retire abroad due to rising costs back home. A recent survey showed that a significant number of older Americans have no retirement savings.
Taylor feels lucky to have the MM2H visa, which has made living in Malaysia appealing. As of early 2024, there are over 56,000 active pass holders, with a good number from the US.
His lifestyle in Malaysia is similar to what he had in the States, but the lower cost means he can stretch his budget further. He spends about $2,500 a month, which he doubts would be enough in the US.
Healthcare is affordable and accessible, and he feels safer in Malaysia than he did in D.C. He’s even started making YouTube videos about his life there.
Looking back, he’s glad he took the plunge. “My family thought I’d be back in six months, but here I am, ten years later, with no plans to return,” he said.
