If you’re considering relocating to Indonesia, Jakarta naturally stands out as the center of business, governance, and international connectivity. But you’ve probably heard the alarming headlines: “Jakarta is the world’s fastest sinking city.”
This blog addresses a crucial question:
Should you still move to Jakarta? And if yes, where exactly should you live for long-term safety, comfort, and value?
Why Is Jakarta Sinking? A Brief Look at the Facts
Jakarta is sinking due to two main reasons:
- Excessive Groundwater Extraction: Much of the city extracts water directly from underground, causing land subsidence.
- Rising Sea Levels: Coastal proximity to the Java Sea increases vulnerability to flooding.
Quick Facts:
- Some parts of Jakarta are sinking by 25 cm per year.
- Over 40% of the city lies below sea level.
- North Jakarta is the most affected, while South, West, and surrounding cities remain stable and elevated.
Despite these facts, Jakarta is still highly livable—if you choose the right location.
Is Jakarta Still Livable?
Yes. Jakarta is still Indonesia’s economic engine and offers vast opportunities for families, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
But to enjoy a high standard of living, you must select elevated and well-planned residential zones.
Let’s explore the top safe, affordable, and well-connected areas in and around Jakarta.
Top Recommended Areas Around Jakarta
1. PIK 2 (Pantai Indah Kapuk 2)
- Distance from Jakarta city center: 35–50 minutes
- Distance from Soekarno-Hatta Airport: 15 minutes
- Rental Range: $250–$1,000/month (studio to landed house)
- Living Standard: Excellent infrastructure, new development, beachfront, high-speed internet, modern malls like PIK Avenue and Urban Farm.
- Greenery: Moderate, with artificial landscaping.
- Flood Risk: Very low due to elevated land reclamation.
2. BSD City (Bumi Serpong Damai)
- Distance from Jakarta: 45–60 minutes
- Distance from Airport: 40–50 minutes
- Rental Range: $200–$900/month
- Living Standard: Planned smart city with wide roads, top schools, fast internet, and shopping centers like AEON Mall and QBig.
- Greenery: High – green parks and boulevards.
- Flood Risk: Very low.
3. Serpong
- Distance from Jakarta: 45–55 minutes
- Distance from Airport: 45–60 minutes
- Rental Range: $180–$850/month
- Living Standard: Middle-class area with strong infrastructure and local malls like Summarecon Serpong.
- Greenery: Moderate
- Flood Risk: Low
4. Sentul City
- Distance from Jakarta: 1–1.5 hours
- Distance from Airport: 1.5–2 hours
- Rental Range: $180–$900/month
- Living Standard: Green hills, clean air, fast toll access, and modern developments with malls like AEON Sentul.
- Greenery: Very high – ideal for nature lovers.
- Flood Risk: None
5. Bogor City
- Distance from Jakarta: 1.5–2 hours
- Distance from Airport: Around 2 hours
- Rental Range: $150–$800/month
- Living Standard: Cooler climate, very green, good for families looking for peaceful surroundings. Local malls like Botani Square are available.
- Greenery: Excellent
- Flood Risk: Very low
6. South Jakarta (e.g., Cipete, Jagakarsa, Pondok Labu)
- Distance from Airport: 45–60 minutes
- Rental Range: $300–$1,000/month
- Living Standard: High-end zones with malls (Pondok Indah Mall, Gandaria City), international communities, and quality housing.
- Greenery: Moderate to good in selected neighborhoods
- Flood Risk: Mostly low in elevated areas
Summary Table: Living Cost and Lifestyle Overview
Area | Rental Range (USD/month) | To Jakarta | To Airport | Greenery | Malls Nearby | Internet & Roads |
PIK 2 | $250–$1,000 | 35–50 min | 15 min | Moderate | PIK Avenue, Urban Farm | Excellent |
BSD City | $200–$900 | 45–60 min | 40–50 min | High | AEON, QBig, ICE BSD | Excellent |
Serpong | $180–$850 | 45–55 min | 45–60 min | Moderate | Summarecon, Living World | Good |
Sentul City | $180–$900 | 1–1.5 hrs | 1.5–2 hrs | Very High | AEON Sentul, Bellanova | Excellent |
Bogor City | $150–$800 | 1.5–2 hrs | 2 hrs | Very High | Botani Square | Moderate to Good |
South Jakarta | $300–$1,000 | — (central) | 45–60 min | Moderate | Gandaria City, PIM | Good (some traffic) |
Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Jakarta?
Yes—Jakarta and its surrounding cities still offer strong opportunities and quality of life, as long as you avoid low-lying zones and choose well-planned residential areas.
For Pakistani expats, many of these areas offer:
- Stable housing under $1,000/month
- Modern infrastructure
- International schools and services
- Good access to the airport and central business areas
You can enjoy a modern lifestyle comparable to developed countries — without breaking your budget.
OBC Can Help You Relocate Smartly
At Overseas Business Consultancy (OBC), we specialize in:
- Setting up foreign-owned companies (PT PMA)
- Investor Visa (KITAS) support
- Legal and relocation assistance for families and entrepreneurs
Note: We do not offer real estate or school selection services, but we guide you with up-to-date, honest information so you can plan wisely.
Let us help you build your future in Indonesia — with confidence.