Johor Bahru Living: Choosing the Perfect Location
When considering Johor Bahru living, one of the first decisions to make is where to reside.
According to a 2020 report by Maybank Kim Eng, approximately 15,000 to 20,000 Singaporeans have already started Johor Bahru living.
For those crossing into Singapore frequently, proximity to the border crossing is crucial.
If you’re a frequent commuter, areas near the crossing points are ideal, despite higher rents and denser populations. Your location in Singapore determines the best crossing point:
- West (Tuas/NTU) or southwest (Teban Gardens/NUS): Tuas crossing is more convenient.
- Rest of Singapore: Woodlands crossing is preferred.
Interestingly, some opt for Woodlands despite Tuas being closer, citing significant toll cost differences between the two crossings. Conversely, others prefer Tuas for a smooth traffic despite residing closer to Woodlands crossing.
Popular Residential Options near Woodlands Crossing which many Johor Bahru living residents prefer include:
- Princess Cove
- Tri Tower
- Twin Tower
- SKS Pavilion Residences
Notably, these are all Condo options and not landed properties. These residences are currently the closest to the JB Immigration Complex. There are also upcoming developments which boast connectivity to or proximity to the upcoming RTS (Rapid Transit System) link.
Alternative options that are older, yet convenient projects include:
- V@Summerplace
- Skysuites
- Skyhabit
All of which are also within walking distance to the immigration complex.
Exploring Johor Bahru Living at the Outer Enclaves
While living near JB Sentral offers convenience, venturing further out can yield more affordable rent options, albeit with longer travel times.
Suitable for infrequent Singapore commuters, these areas also offer a tranquil retreat.
The most popular enclaves beyond the City Center for Johor Bahru living includes:
- Midvalley: Affordable condos with varied floor plans and amenities.
- Larkin: Established neighborhood with a range of residences as well as a bus hub.
- Danga Bay: Waterfront living with scenic views.
- Mount Austin: Family-friendly area with larger apartments and landed properties.
Some condos in these areas may even offer private bus services to JB Immigration Complex. You will have to check their existence and frequency with each of the residences. When present, they offer a seamless way to begin your journey. But in exchange you will have to time your journey to and back.
If not and you are not driving, then you will have to rely on Grab which can be unpredictable during peak hours and its associated surge pricing.
In general, commute and lifestyle preferences will dictate which areas you will find residence in Johor Bahru living.
- JB Sentral proximity: Public transport reliance or walking, mainly apartment living.
- Further afield: Driving or Grab needed, larger apartments and landed properties.
Over at Tuas, things are a bit more complex.
Johor Bahru living: 2nd link/Tuas area guide
If you’re considering proximity to Singapore via the 2nd link, the area surrounding it offers a unique blend of newer developments and lush green spaces.
Unlike other parts of Johor Bahru, residences here are more spread out, with an abundance of landed properties. Apartments, however, tend to cluster around bus stops that connect commuters directly to Singapore via Tuas.
Bukit Indah is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the area, boasting a range of options from the newer Sky Tree and Sky Loft to the older The Sky Executive Suites.
Another sought-after area is the Legoland vicinity, where one can find less people around. Residents can easily walk to bus stops that bring them straight to Singapore, although it will be less frequent.
Puteri Harbor is also a favorite among locals, although it currently lacks direct bus services. The area is next to the Johor Straits offering water front living, a walkable area with wide streets and pedestrian walk ways unlike the rest of Johor.
Overall when choosing where to live in this area, consider the balance between development and green spaces, as well as the variety of housing options. Proximity to bus stops and the 2nd link is, of course, a top priority. By weighing these factors, you can find the perfect spot to call home in Johor Bahru.
People of tend to live at this side of Johor Bahru prioritize a less hectic and peaceful pace of living. And because the amenities are further apart, will mainly drive. If public transport is not an option some opt to drive in and out from Singapore and back.
Living in Johor Bahru: My Story
In January 2020, I made Johor Bahru my home, drawn by its convenience and affordability.
As a tutor, I only needed to commute to Singapore 3 days a week, conducting physical classes on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
This schedule allowed me to avoid peak traffic hours, making my journeys smooth.
Initially, I settled into Paragon Residences at Straits View in Danga Bay, just a Grab ride away from the JB Immigration Complex.
However, the lockdown changed everything. Fortunately, I transitioned to digital classes and decided to stay in JB full-time.
When my lease expired at the end of 2020, I moved to Encorp Marina Residences at Puteri Harbor, securing a studio apartment for just RM1,000 per month – a steal amid the pandemic-induced rental slump.
This was a far cry from Singapore’s skyrocketing rents, which made JB an even more attractive option.
Cross-Border Commuting: My Experience
These days, I travel to Singapore about once a month or lesser.
To make the journey seamless, I drive from my home near the 2nd link to the Gelang Patah bus stop, where I park for free – a significant cost savings compared to the JB Immigration Complex (minimum RM8).
From there, I hop onto the bus that heads towards the 2nd Link crossing towards Singapore. The entire process takes under an hour from door to door (passing the crossing only).
On my return trip, I alight at the opposite bus stop, grab dinner and groceries, and head home to unwind.
Now that we’ve explored where are the areas to live in Johor Bahru as well as a little of my commuting options, let’s dive into the next crucial decision: renting or buying property in Johor Bahru property.
Experience Johor Bahru Like a Local: Guided Tour
Also, discover the authentic charm of Johor Bahru living with me in a guided tour. As your personal guide, I’ll show you what living in JB is really like.
To start, I’ll pick you up from Singapore and drive you across the border into JB. Next, we’ll indulge in:
- Local coffee and meals
- Exploring areas near Woodlands Causeway and Tuas 2nd Link
- Insider knowledge on pros and cons of different neighborhoods
- Answers to your burning questions
Notably, as a seasoned resident, I’ll share my expertise without any agenda. Consequently, you’ll get a true feel for JB’s lifestyle, amenities, and community. Moreover, I’ll provide valuable insights into:
- JB’s best neighborhoods
- Local culture as well as hidden gems
- Everyday living experiences
Unlike traditional real estate tours, my guided experience focuses on showcasing the real JB. Indicate your interest below. Otherwise, you can also explore my YouTube channel for a glimpse of life in JB.
