Pekanbaru vs. Depok: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Depok demonstrates a significantly higher average monthly net salary after taxes, at $377.23 compared to Pekanbaru's $198. This substantial difference suggests stronger potential for individual income and savings in Depok. Both cities share the same GDP per capita of $13,900 and identical population growth rates, indicating comparable economic development stages despite the salary disparity. However, Depok's higher cost of living categories partially offset by higher earnings create a more complex economic landscape for residents.

When examining cost of living categories, Depok presents a mixed picture. Residents benefit from lower transportation costs, including cheaper public transport passes and fuel. However, Depok significantly outpaces Pekanbaru in nearly all other major cost-of-living areas. Food costs are substantially higher across the board, with even basic groceries being more expensive. Both cities show similar child-rearing expenses for childcare, but Depok's international school tuition is considerably higher ($7,600 annually versus $5,000). Depok's property prices are substantially higher, particularly in city center locations.

The quality of life comparison reveals notable differences between the two cities. Pekanbaru shows slightly better performance in safety metrics, though both cities have relatively low healthcare indices. Depok demonstrates significantly lower pollution levels, creating a more favorable environmental quality. These factors combined suggest Depok offers a potentially better balance between safety, environmental quality, and economic opportunity, despite its higher cost of living.

Depok offers substantially lower transportation costs, with significantly cheaper public transit options and fuel prices. However, utility costs tell a different story, with Depok's monthly utility bills being considerably higher than Pekanbaru's, reflecting potential differences in housing stock and energy costs. This combination suggests that while daily commuting might be more affordable in Depok, maintaining a household through utilities could be more challenging.

The housing market presents a stark contrast between the two cities. Pekanbaru offers significantly more affordable housing options across all categories, with much lower monthly rent and substantially cheaper property prices. Depok features higher property values, particularly in city center locations, though it offers slightly lower interest rates for mortgages. This combination makes Pekanbaru substantially more accessible for first-time homebuyers and renters, while Depok appeals more to those prioritizing location and potentially newer housing stock.