Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Seria (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Seria, Brunei
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Seria, Brunei for an expat in 2026 averages $295–$440 (BND 400–600) per month for rent (2-br, seria town). Key costs include rent (2-br, seria town) ($295–$440 (BND 400–600)), rent (2-br, panaga / company area) ($0–$370 (BND 0–500)), groceries ($185–$330 (BND 250–450)).
Seria is a popular destination for expats relocating to Brunei. Seria is Brunei's oil capital — a quiet, purpose-built town in the Belait District where Brunei Shell Petroleum's headquarters dominates the landscape and the iconic 'Nodding Donkey' oil pump stands as a monument to the nation's petroleum wealth. With a population of around 35,000, Seria is small and sleepy but offers expats working in the oil and gas sector generous packages: company housing in Panaga, subsidised international schools (Jerudong International School bus service), and access to the Panaga Club — a British-colonial-era recreational club with swimming pools, tennis courts, and a golf course. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (2-BR, Seria town) | $295–$440 (BND 400–600) |
| Rent (2-BR, Panaga / company area) | $0–$370 (BND 0–500) |
| Groceries | $185–$330 (BND 250–450) |
| Transport (car/fuel) | $45–$110 (BND 60–150) |
| Utilities (electricity + water + internet) | $95–$165 (BND 130–220) |
| Health insurance (private) | $37–$148 (BND 50–200) |
| Dining out (2–3×/week) | $55–$130 (BND 75–175) |
| Entertainment & leisure | $30–$75 (BND 40–100) |
| Total (comfortable, mid-range) | $800–$2,000 (BND 1,080–2,700) |
Seria Quick Facts
Best For
Oil & gas engineers, petroleum professionals, Shell/Total expats
Monthly Budget
$800–$2,000 (BND 1,080–2,700)
2-BR Rent
$295–$520/mo (BND 400–700)
Internet Speed
~40 Mbps avg.
English Level
Good — universal in oil/gas companies
Key Employer
Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP), Total Energies, Brunei LNG
Nearest Airport
BWN (Bandar Seri Begawan) — 90 min drive
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Seria per month?
Monthly costs in Seria depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (2-br, seria town) ($295–$440 (BND 400–600)), rent (2-br, panaga / company area) ($0–$370 (BND 0–500)), groceries ($185–$330 (BND 250–450)). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Seria affordable for expats?
Seria is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Seria?
Rent (2-BR, Seria town): $295–$440 (BND 400–600). Rent (2-BR, Panaga / company area): $0–$370 (BND 0–500)