Living in Medan: the ultimate expat guide

Medan serves as the economic engine of North Sumatra, with industries spanning agriculture, manufacturing, trade, and services. While the job market is smaller than Jakarta's, opportunities exist for professionals with specialized skills, particularly in sectors connected to the region's primary commodities.

Key Industries and Employment Sectors

The palm oil industry dominates the regional economy, with North Sumatra hosting one of Indonesia's largest concentrations of oil palm plantations and processing facilities. Major companies including Asian Agri and Musim Mas Group maintain operations in Medan, employing thousands in agricultural management, engineering, and corporate roles. The city hosts the annual PALMEX trade exhibition, attracting over 7,000 industry professionals from across Asia.

Beyond agriculture, Medan's economy includes manufacturing, logistics and port operations through the Port of Belawan, retail and wholesale trade, and a growing services sector. Foreign professionals typically find employment in management positions, technical roles, education, and hospitality.

Work Permits and Visa Requirements

Foreign nationals must obtain a KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) to work legally in Indonesia. Your employer must first secure approval for an RPTKA (Expatriate Placement Plan) from the Ministry of Manpower, followed by a work permit notification. The process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks and costs approximately USD 1,000–1,500. Employers pay a monthly levy of USD 100 per foreign worker. Work permits are generally issued for 6 months to 2 years, depending on the position.

The table below summarizes key employment indicators for Medan and North Sumatra.

Sources: WageIndicator Indonesia, Numbeo, Ministry of Manpower Indonesia

Medan hosts several reputable universities offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs. While instruction is primarily in Indonesian, some institutions provide English-taught courses and welcome international students, particularly in graduate programs and research collaborations.

Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU)

Universitas Sumatera Utara is the largest and most prestigious public university in the region, established in 1952. With over 50,000 students across 16 faculties and 154 study programs, USU ranks among Indonesia's top universities and holds a QS World Ranking of #1001–1200. The main campus in Padang Bulan covers 120 hectares, featuring modern facilities including a teaching hospital—Indonesia's largest—a comprehensive library, and extensive sports facilities.

USU offers programs in medicine, engineering, agriculture, law, economics, and sciences. The university maintains international partnerships and welcomes foreign students, though Indonesian language proficiency is typically required for most programs. Tuition for international students varies by faculty, generally ranging from USD 1,500–4,000 per year.

Other Notable Institutions

Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) is the leading private university, with A accreditation from BAN-PT—the first private institution outside Java to achieve this distinction. UMSU enrolls approximately 15,785 students across 9 faculties and offers some English-taught international programs.

Other universities include Universitas Negeri Medan (state university focused on teacher training), Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara, and several polytechnics offering vocational education. The academic year runs from September to July, with admission typically requiring completion of secondary education and entrance examinations.

Sources: Universitas Sumatera Utara, QS Top Universities

Medan offers several international and bilingual schools catering to expatriate families. While options are more limited than in Jakarta or Bali, quality institutions provide internationally recognized curricula and English-medium instruction.

Medan Independent School (MIS)

Medan Independent School stands as the city's premier international institution, established in 1969. It is the only school in Medan offering the complete International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum—Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). MIS holds WASC accreditation (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) and membership in EARCOS (East Asian Regional Council of Overseas Schools).

The campus features a full-sized football field, swimming pool, gymnasium, science laboratories, and Medan's largest English-language library. Annual tuition ranges from approximately IDR 30,000,000 to IDR 320,000,000 depending on grade level. The school accepts both Indonesian and international students from age 3 through Grade 12.

Other International Schools

Singapore Intercultural School (SIS) Medan offers Singapore, Cambridge IGCSE, and IB Diploma curricula. Located in the Royal Sumatra complex, SIS provides education from preschool through junior college with facilities including a swimming pool, auditorium, and computer labs. The school emphasizes bilingual education in English and Mandarin.

PrimeOne School follows the Cambridge International curriculum and has earned recognition for strong academic results. HighScope Medan implements the American-based HighScope curriculum emphasizing active learning and brain-based education. Pelita Harapan School, part of a national network, offers Cambridge curriculum with a Christian foundation from preschool through Grade 12.

Enrollment and Considerations

Most international schools require application forms, previous academic records, and sometimes entrance assessments. Waiting lists may apply for popular schools, so early application is advisable. Private kindergarten fees average IDR 2,000,000–3,500,000 monthly, while international primary school tuition typically ranges from IDR 30,000,000–175,000,000 annually.

Sources: Medan Independent School, SIS Medan

Medan offers diverse housing options at prices significantly lower than Indonesia's major cities. Most expatriates live in landed houses within gated communities, though modern apartment complexes are increasingly available in the city center.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

Taman Setia Budi (Tasbi) is the most established expat enclave, featuring well-maintained gated communities with security, green spaces, and proximity to international schools. The area offers a mix of houses and apartments with good amenities.

Polonia, near the former airport site, remains popular for its central location and established residential complexes. Properties here include colonial-era houses and modern developments. Cemara Asri and Bumi Asri are newer complexes offering larger homes with gardens, swimming pools, and clubhouse facilities. Royal Sumatra provides premium housing in a landscaped environment, particularly appealing to families with school-age children given its proximity to SIS Medan.

For those seeking urban living, the Podomoro City Deli development offers modern high-rise apartments with direct mall access, swimming pools, and fitness centers in the city center near Medan Train Station.

Rental Prices and Housing Types

Rental costs in Medan are remarkably affordable by international standards. Houses in middle-class neighborhoods typically rent for IDR 3,000,000–5,000,000 monthly (USD 190–320), while upscale areas command IDR 6,000,000–10,000,000 (USD 380–630). Annual leases are common, with some landlords requesting one year's rent upfront.

Sources: Numbeo 2025

Medan's cultural diversity and proximity to spectacular natural attractions make it an exciting base for exploration. The city itself offers historical sites, vibrant markets, and excellent dining, while weekend escapes to Lake Toba and the rainforest are easily accessible.

City Attractions

Maimun Palace (Istana Maimoon) is Medan's most iconic landmark, built in 1888 by the Sultan of Deli. The yellow palace blends Malay, Mughal, and European architectural styles. Visitors can explore the throne room and dress in traditional sultan costumes for photos (entry: IDR 5,000).

Masjid Raya Al-Mashun, the Great Mosque adjacent to the palace, is one of Indonesia's most beautiful mosques, featuring Moroccan-inspired design and intricate tilework. The Tjong A Fie Mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into Medan's Chinese heritage—this restored home of a wealthy 19th-century merchant showcases European and Chinese architecture (entry: IDR 35,000).

For local flavor, explore Little India (Kampung Madras) and the surrounding areas near Pasar Ikan. The Central Market (Pasar Petisah) opens at 4 AM, selling fresh produce from the Brastagi highlands. Merdeka Walk provides evening entertainment with restaurants, cafes, and street food along a pedestrian boulevard.

Weekend Escapes

Lake Toba, approximately 4 hours from Medan, is the world's largest volcanic crater lake and a must-visit destination. Samosir Island in the lake's center offers Batak cultural experiences, traditional villages, and peaceful lakeside accommodation. The journey passes through Pematang Siantar and offers scenic views of rubber and palm oil plantations.

Bukit Lawang, about 3 hours northwest, is the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park and one of the best places in the world to see wild Sumatran orangutans. Guided jungle treks range from half-day walks to multi-day adventures.

The Karo Highlands around Berastagi offer cooler temperatures, volcanic landscapes, and the spectacular Sipiso-Piso Waterfall (120 meters). Mount Sibayak provides an accessible volcano hike with rewarding crater views and hot springs.

Dining and Nightlife

Medan is celebrated across Indonesia for its food. Sample Soto Medan (coconut milk soup), Bika Ambon (honeycomb cake), Mie Aceh (spicy noodles), and the Chinese-influenced cuisine of Kesawan. Popular expat gathering spots include Merdeka Walk and venues in Sun Plaza and Centre Point malls.

Sources: TripAdvisor, Discover Sumatra

Daily life in Medan moves at a relaxed pace compared to Jakarta, though the city still experiences significant traffic congestion during rush hours. Understanding local transportation options and cultural norms will help you settle in smoothly.

Transportation Options

Medan has limited formal public transport, making personal vehicles or ride-hailing apps essential. Grab and Gojek are indispensable—offering cars (GrabCar, GoCar), motorcycles (GrabBike, GoRide), and even food delivery. These apps provide transparent pricing and are widely available throughout the city.

Traditional transport includes angkot—colorful minibuses following fixed routes for around IDR 5,000 per trip—and becak, motorized three-wheeled rickshaws ideal for short distances. Always agree on fares before boarding a becak. Many expatriates eventually purchase a car or motorcycle; owning a vehicle significantly improves quality of life given the limited public transit.

Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) lies 39 kilometers east of the city center. The Railink Airport Train connects the airport to Medan Station in approximately 30 minutes for IDR 100,000. DAMRI buses offer a cheaper alternative at IDR 40,000–100,000 but take 60–90 minutes depending on traffic.

Climate and Lifestyle

Medan has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging 26–32°C year-round. High humidity is constant, with rainfall possible any month. The dry season (May–September) offers slightly more comfortable weather. Air conditioning is essential in homes and offices.

The city awakens early; markets bustle from 4 AM, and many businesses open by 8 AM. Lunch breaks are typically lengthy (12–2 PM), and dinner is often eaten late. Shopping malls like Sun Plaza, Centre Point, and Medan Mall serve as social hubs with air-conditioned respite from the heat. Cash remains king in traditional markets, though cards are accepted in malls and restaurants.

Language and Communication

Bahasa Indonesia is the primary language. English is spoken in international hotels, some restaurants, and by younger professionals, but learning basic Indonesian phrases will greatly enhance daily interactions. Most street vendors and taxi drivers speak minimal English.

Sources: Discover Sumatra

Medan ranks among the most affordable cities in Indonesia and globally—placing in the top 5% of least expensive cities worldwide. Living costs are approximately 57% lower than Jakarta for rent and 17–19% lower for groceries and dining. A comfortable lifestyle is achievable on a modest budget.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

A single expatriate can live comfortably in Medan on USD 800–1,200 monthly, or more modestly on USD 500–700. The table below provides a breakdown of typical monthly expenses.

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

A family of four should budget USD 2,000–3,500 monthly depending on housing choices and schooling. International school fees represent the largest expense for families.

Sources: Numbeo 2025, LivingCost.org