My Apartment in Macau

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Friends back home were asking what my living conditions are like in China so here are pictures of my apartment on the island of Taipa in Macau, China (SAR). These are pictures of the place before I moved in.

This is the view from my living room windows. Just over the river there you can see mainland China.

Taipa is the island next to Macau. My island of Taipa has a large expat community (lots of Westerners) so it’s very comfortable and not much of a culture shock. I have two large grocery stores within a 30 second walk and plenty of great restaurants – Italian, Mexican, Portuguese, Thai, American, Indian, Chinese and French.

I can get a bowl of noodles and chicken for about two dollars around the corner, or Pizza Hut is on the corner.

Next to my apartment is a public park with fish ponds, gardens and walkways. It’s very beautiful. I’m on a high floor so the view is fantastic. It’s a two bedroom. The second bedroom will be my music studio and also has a wide open view of the city. My favorite part of this apartment is the studio room with the view. Studio also has a flat screen tv on the wall and a wide work counter already built in.

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Dining room. My apartment had a professional designer create it. To me it looks a little Moroccan, not quite sure. But I dig it.

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The living room during the day. Lots of light through the bay windows.

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The main entry way. Tile floors throughout. My maid likes it because it’s easy to clean.

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A flat screen HD tv with 5.1 surround system hardwired into the walls. I’ve got my XBox already hooked up and friends have gotten me movies from across the border.

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The master bedroom. Each room has at least 6-10 different lighting fixtures that are very well designed for different moods. In the master bedroom there is a sitting area that overlooks Taipa.

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The kitchen. Most Chinese apartments have very small kitchens. This is a little more Western in style. Has a window that overlooks the city.

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The security guard working hard late at night.

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I like this lady better. She always says good morning and tries to teach me Chinese. I’m not doing very well so far. Also, when she’s at the front counter she’s usually actually awake which is a nice bonus.

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91 thoughts on “My Apartment in Macau

  1. Let me get this straight – you get a view AND a maid???

    Heh, big guy, it’s time you started praying for ME.

    grumble..mutter…nobody ever tells me anything..and now I’m too old to join the circus

  2. The apartment looks beautiful. What is the name of the apartment? And what would the rental be?

  3. Prices have gone up a lot in the last year in Taipa because so many Westerners (Venetian casino workers) have come to town. Currently this runs around $1300 a month – a year ago it might have been $600.

  4. What currency are you talking there?

    and what building is this? i need to start looking for a place and that part of Taipa is exactly the ‘taipa’ place i would like to rent.

  5. Currency is MOP (Patacas). This is in the Flower City area next between Kingsville and the stores Park ‘n Shop and Fortress. Now is a good time to rent – there’s a little slump. When I got here there was a large group of us all looking for apartments at the same time so prices jumped a little. A local real estate agent just told me a couple days ago that the market has “stabilized”.

    Next year there are many more waves of groups coming in…

    It’s very easy to get taxi’s in Macau – so don’t rule out living on Macau island. My friends that live on Coloane were able to get driver’s licenses easily and all bought cars (you can get a used car for 10,000 MOP Patacas – about 1300 dollars US).

    There are several new buildings also almost finished with construction.

  6. Amazing flat. I know that building and that view, I have a friend who used to live there. Near Park and shop and now the new supermarket, right? Near kingsville, I guess. But did you say you pay 1300 rental? I suppose you’re talking dollars, right, so around 13000 MOP. Rentals are getting crazy! I have to start looking for a new flat in Jan and I’m getting depressed just to think about it. My sallary is not much higher than that figure.

  7. To be clear, it’s $10,500 MOP per month, which is around $1350 US – this is as of April 2008. Mine is a little higher than others, many of my friends have places that are $7,000 or so. I’ve been to locals places as low as $1500 MOP per month, but not a place I would want to live in. I need space for computers and music work.

  8. Hi Mr.Askland,
    I am curious to know how it is to work at Cirque? What are the hours you work as a musician? How long do you have to prepare for an audition after they choose you to be part of the show?
    Please let me know.
    Best regards
    Daniel

  9. I have read your blog and it looks as though my husband and I will be moving to Macau in the not too distant future. Could you please let me know the name of the apartment in which you live and the approximate cost of it. It looks absolutely fabulous and it is exactly what we are looking for. Is the apartment block called the Saville?

  10. hello im cooming ovee there in macau this oct 9 do you have a night ? or short term list like 2 weeks stay?let me know i need to get a place when i get there

  11. Hi Conrad,

    Just came from Macau last night. I passed by your apartment a couple of times when I take the no 33 bus to Macau. Liked the long ride since I get to see the whole place real cheap just MOP3.3.

    The taipa village is nice. My sister and I got there by mistake when we got off the bus too early. A lot of nice resto. It has a restaurant named Cozinha Pinnochio. Just thought it was kinda different to name your resto after a Disney character. It sure got my attention.

    You should try to check out the place where the locals eat. That would be really experiencing the culture of the place. There’s this bakery place in Taipa where we got lost. The bread it sells is really quire good. And had nai cha or milk tea – the real thing not the flavored one. One thing for sure – people in Macao like bread a lot because there is so much bakeries; which is great because I just love bread.

    I was there for 3 days. It was my first time to go to Macau. Reminds me a lot of the chinatown we have here in the Philippines. Its just more glamourous.

    My sister and I wanted to see Cirque de Soleil but didnt go through with it. She got to see a preview of it when she was in Las Vegas last year.

    I enjoyed your website.

    Enjoy!

  12. Hi Conrad:

    I have friend who is planning to come to Macau in the next two months and is looking for a flat, 1500 square feet or thereabouts. He has heard a lot about Kingsville and Supreme Flower City (what a name!). What do you know about the places and what kind of monthly rent can he expect in Hong Kong Dollars? Since you are there what is the outlook for the remainder of the year. He is concerned about getting locked into a deal that would be hard to renegotiate if the market softens.

    Albert

  13. Hi Albert,
    Your friend is coming at a good time. As of January 2009 the market has softened considerably because of the mass exodus of expats due to layoffs. Prices have dropped overall 30 percent from early 2008 and there should be no problem finding a place. It’s a renter’s market right now. Kingsville is nice and so is Supreme FLower City – he’ll probably want to check out Nova City also. The apartments in Taipa are mostly located within a 6 block radius so he’ll be able to see all of them no problem.

    Standard contract in Macau states that landlords can raise rent after a year up to 20 percent according to Macau law. I don’t anticipate prices will go up in the next year due to the current global financial situation.

  14. Hi there Conrad,

    I just happened to stumble on this post of yours and guess what! I’m moving to Macau in a month all alone and I really don’t know where to start looking for apartments. Is it possible to get one even before I move? And do you think you could tell me how much your apartment costs as well please? Thanks very very much, I’m rather lost at the moment.

  15. Hi Charmine,
    Right now (March 2009) there is no problem at all to find an apartment and prices have dropped by about 30% or more since a year ago. There was a mass exodus of expats from Macau in October/November. The government is really pushing to have local Macanese and Chinese hold the jobs, so thousands of Westerners left at once.

    I actually moved to a new apartment last week because prices dropped so much. I moved to Nova City in Taipa. It’s new, mainly Westerners live here and it has a gym, swimming pool, sauna, etc. Right now you can get an unfurnished place easily for $6,000HK a month, or $7,000MOP furnished. I pay $7500HK for a furnished apartment on the top floor in a new tower.

    There are also Chinese style apartments available for $4,000HK and less, but you may find them a little dark and depressing.

    There’s roughly 8 patacas (MOP) to a US dollar. So $8000HK is around $1,000USD. Apartments are paid in Hong Kong dollars, not Patacas (MOP).

    Ocean Garden is an area that is very family friendly with the best deals, but it’s a little secluded. There’s not grocery stores to choose from close by and if you work at a place like the Venetian you’ll probably need the local bus or taxi. You can get a furnished 2 bedroom apartment in Ocean Garden with a view of the Ocean for $4500HK. Really an unbelievable price compared to early 2008 prices. The only reason I don’t live there is because I like to walk to work.

    In Taipa there is a real estate office on every street so you’ll have no problem finding a place. Downpayments are always 4x the monthly rental rate. You pay first month, two month deposit, and one month is the commission for the real estate agent.

    Whether you get your deposit back is up in the air. Some people do, some don’t. I’ve been told if you’re owner is from Mainland China then you WILL get the deposit back, but don’t know if that’s true. Most people just don’t pay the last month’s rent when they give notice, then hope they get the other money back if the apartment is in good shape. My last landlord was a real jerk, so I didn’t even bother asking for the deposit. My new landlord is very nice, and from Mainland China.

  16. whee!

    thanks so much for all that information! hopefully i’ll get one as nice as yours =)

  17. Hi,

    i’m looking to rent an apartment in macau,
    prefably near to the casinos,
    could u help me out?

    regards.

  18. Hi, Conrad

    Glad I’ve stumbled on your site – it’s really, really useful.

    I’m moving to Macau to work for Crown in June – have seen Nova City online and really loved it. Would it be possible for you to let me know how much a two-bedroom (that’s the smallest they have, right?) rent is at current market rate? I’m going to Macau alone and really don’t need that much space.

    Please let me know more about Nova City. Is it generally safe (good security?)? Any nearby grocery stores? Convenient in terms of transportation?

    Would really appreciate your information. Thank you 🙂

  19. Hi Nini,
    I moved into Nova City a couple months ago and like it. Very good security, optional workout facility and swimming pool.

    Exchange rate for reference is oughly 8,000 Patacas/Mop/Hong Kong to $1,000 USD (8:1).

    2 bedroom Nova City unfurnished 6,000. Furnished for 6,500. Top floor new building furnished for $7,500.

    Prices for rent have really dropped in Macau. As of May 2009 you can even get an apartment for 3,500 MOP. I like Nova City because it’s clean and safe.

    Many grocery stores within four blocks including Park ‘n Shop and Sanmiu.

  20. And to people looking for apartments in Macau in 2009, you will have no problem finding one. There was a major expulsion of expats in late 2008, so lots of empty apartments.

  21. Thank you so much, Conrad!

    Your info is really useful – I’m pretty sure now that Nova City will work out for me ^_^ Hope to see you in Macau soon!

  22. FYI, from Nova City you can walk to the Crown/Venetian/City of Dreams area (Cotai Strip) in 20-25 minutes.

    The City of Dreams is getting ready to open. I saw the lights of the Hard Rock hotel building flashing for the first time last night. It’s starting to look a bit like Vegas in Macau!

  23. Wow, that sounds really exciting! I can’t wait to see for myself.

    I’ve just received emails from a property agent on La Cite apartments as well… Have you had any feedback about La Cite?

  24. La Cite is very nice. I think they even have a bowling alley, and real sand for a “beach’ at their swimming pool. A friend of mine lived there but ended up moving to Nova City because the prices dropped so much. He has a car too, so wasn’t a driving issue. La Cite is in Macau, so you can’t walk to work from there. I’ve also been told it’s more of a Chinese area without Western shopping, not sure about that.

    Before I came to Macau I thought I would be immersed in Chinese culture, learn Chinese cooking, the language, etc. But it’s more of a hybrid of Chinese/Portuguese with English and Australian folks. It’s very nice to have local shops for food we’re more used to I think. Still haven’t gotten used to eating chicken feet, ox tail and bird’s nest.

    Again, you don’t really have to find a place before you come – it’s VERY easy to find a place. For instance, in Taipa, most of the apartments are in large buildings within 4 blocks of each other. Very easy and quick to take a look.

  25. That’s comforting to know (that I won’t have a problem getting an apartment when I arrive).

    Another agent just informed me that it is quite impossible to get a place at Nova City for 6,500hkd. I’m not really sure if I should pay more than that, though, especially after learning that property prices have dropped in Macau.

    I’m not going to work at the Crown itself, but at its corporate office. I was told that it is in Taipa, so I’m not too keen on getting a place at La Cite due to the distance. Would you be able to let me know how long it would take by public transportation from La Cite to Taipa? I’m not sure if I would like to live on Macau if I have to go down to Taipa to get more ‘Western’ supplies.

  26. Bus would probably take 10-15 minutes. Macau and Taipa are joined by three bridges.

    Regarding prices in Nova City, all I can tell you is that in March 2009 it was very easy to find a place in Nova City for 6,500hkd. Believe me, you’ll find a place quickly – you don’t have to make any decisions before you arrive.

    In general, Taipa is the place westerners have their apartments. Taipa is the “ghylo” town. I also know people that live in Coloane and Macau proper – but most of them have cars. The bus system is very good during daylight hours – so to take a bus everyday to Taipa would not be a big deal (unless you’re like me, and hate buses!).

    Everything is so close together, you’ll see when you get here.

  27. Hi,

    Would you like to share one bedroom to me? I come from China, 25 year lady, works in Venetian shopping mall, i want to practise my English, so…what to share apartment with some foreign friends.
    No matter male or female, no matter the age…… friendly and kind is enough, can you do me this favor? Thank you so much, wish can hear from you soon.

    ur friend,
    Tahity

  28. Good day Askland

    I will be moving to Macau in Sept. Can you suggest some good websites for locating rental properties in Taipa – I am looking a furnished highrise apt in the US $650- 1000 range. I will be working for Dragone. Thanks.

  29. Hi mr askland.
    First off i would like to say thanks for your very nice homepage, it has given me lots of good info about my Macau trip.
    Me and 3 friends are heading for Macau in Oktober 2009 and we are staying for 1 month…
    At first we planned on staying at a cheaper casino but now we have looked at apartments.
    Do you think its possible to rent an apartment in macau/tapia for 1 month?
    Im also wondering if u can recommend any places we can rent and apartment for 8500mop-18000mop, we would like it to have gym pool and internet i possible 🙂
    Thank you in advance

    /Niklas

  30. Hi Niklas,
    There are boarding rooms around the Red Market in Macau you can rent by the month. It’s like being at camp, rooms are very cheap – like 1,000 a month. I don’t know that you can rent an actual apartment for one month, might be available. There are tons of cheap motels and real estate brokers everywhere in Macau. For what you want, probably easier to find in Macau than Taipa.

  31. Good Day,
    I was wondering how is the property rental market currently in macau for one two bedroom appt i will be moving by next week.
    Thanks in advance
    Bill

  32. It’s settled a bit, still a renter’s market I think. There’s a new wave of expats coming in so there will probably be a spike in the future.

  33. Hello Conrad,
    Thank you for earlier reply, im already in macau and i think i found what im looking for , i Just wanted to ask you how much is the property agent fees that should be paid by me?
    Regards
    Bill

  34. Hi Bill,
    Normal agent’s fee in Macau is equal to one month’s rent. Normally you need to pay 4x the monthly rental in total: 1 is agent’s fee, 1 is security deposit, 1 is first month rent, 1 is advance of last month rent.

  35. hi there askland,

    i have read your blog for some time now, really enjoy reading it,
    i am currently living in hong kong, but i use to live in macau many years back,
    just wondering is it really difficult to get a job there right now?

    also regarding the apartments in taipa
    (i dont want to ask the same questions as everyone else since they keep repeating)
    i went looking around 1 month ago
    and i found some for around 4500+ but most of the agencies didn’t really seem interested to rent or be bothered to do any work!

    could you suggest some rental agencies to me?

    thank you
    ps: could u please reply to my email? thanks so much!

  36. Hi David,
    Greetings to “Honkers”! It’s my personal opinion that real estate agents are a cut-throat, egotistical and slimy bunch – and Macau is no different. In fact many of us had MAJOR complaints about the real estate agents when we came to Macau – to which our company said “What can we do? Real estate agents are the same the world over!”

    Of course they’re more interested in showing the more expensive apartments because they get more of a commission. I looked at places as low as even $2000 (a one room I considered unlivable) up to $20,000 (the agent was very excited to show it). There are so many agents in Macau that I’d suggest if you don’t feel comfortable when you walk in or when the person is showing you around, then just leave and go to another. That’s what I did.

    Now I live in Nova City and they have a great main office to take care of all the little apartment things after you move in. It’s a little more expensive, but still cheaper than when I moved to Macau in early 2008 and prices had skyrocketed.

    The reason I don’t want to recommend anyone is I actually did have a break in and robbery at one point, and it took the agent more than 3 weeks to get my security door installed. Which at the time didn’t make me very happy.

    On getting jobs in Macau – as you know it seems to change every couple months – and a lot depends on whether you are Chinese or a Westerner. The new Macau quota requirements are in full force now, for many companies they cannot get a blue card for a Westerner unless they employ 6 locals first. I’ve even heard stories where business owners have been told to pay the locals $8,000MOP per month TO NOT WORK – just have them show up and give them a meal; in order to meet quotas.

    Still a scary time for jobs for the Westerner in Macau. That being said, Venetian is restarting construction and economy seems on the upswing. We’re all just at the mercy of the Macau government and their changing regulations.

  37. Great information! I am planning to move to Macau later this year to be with my fiancee who works at Venetian. We like the Taipa Village area. Are Flower City and KingsVille both walking distance from the Village? We are looking for something modern and nice like what you have. Our price range is about $1000-1200 USD. Thanks!

  38. Yes, Kingsville and Flower City are both walking distance to the Venetian. I live in Nova City now and I like that too – also in walking distance. Everything in Taipa is walking distance to the Venetian except Ocean Gardens and Pearl on the Lough.

    Still lots of REALLY NICE places available for 8-10,000 MOP per month ($1,000 to $1200USD). In April 2008 it was a steal to get into Kingsville at 12,500MOP ($1600USD) – but in late 2009 you could get a place there for as low as 8,000MOP ($1,0000USD).

    Prices all depend on when you arrive and how the influx/exodus of expats is at the time. I would anticipate that prices will rise a bit through 2010, but still lower than 2008.

    I’ve lived in Taipa now for two years. It’s very laid back and very safe.

  39. Hi askland,

    We’re a young couple travelling to Macau in May and are trying to find a nice, furnished 1-bedroom or bachelor close to Grand Lisboa and the Wynn. We’re willing to spend up to $800USD if the room is nice enough, has full kitchen, and is in a secure area. Any recommendations?

    Thanks,

    Camille

  40. Hi Askland,

    Im starting to look for a place out there because I might be hired by Cirque. I would be a rigger. Was wondering if you could pass on any info to me about what areas to look for a place out there.

    Thanks

    Jason

  41. Dear Askland I am planing to go Macau
    from 18 03.2010-
    till 13.04.2010.

    my budget about 6000-6500HKD!

    Have U got any idea how can I found a good apartment for to person in the city,

    U would be very helpful to send me an answer…

    greatings from Hungary Dora,

  42. Askland, Update — We got an apartment in Nova City 2/BR 2/BA, new, and furnished, for $9400 HKD. Its very nice and comfortable and the area is nice as well. Thanks for the advice neighbor!

    BTW, We saw ZAIA.. its was spectacular!

  43. I’ve been in Nova City for a year now and just signed for another year. I really like it. Very clean, have only seen one cockroach in the last year which is a record in Macau. Also, no mold in the newer towers. Now I pay 8,000HKD per month for two bedroom two bathroom furnished – top floor with view of water. Furniture is very cheap though. Prices are going up now – in early 2009 I got this for 7500HKD – but I think 9400HKD like you are paying is more the norm now. Prices were higher than that in early 2008, then plummeted with the recession in late 2009 – and now on the way back up.

    A couple blocks away is the Tuk Tuk Thai restaurant and across the street from that is a great place to get plants and small trees for the apartment.

    I had a break-in last year so I’d recommend a security door if you don’t have one. Security at Nova City is a little lax.

    You can also get nice places right now at Kingsville or New Prince Flower City – all of those within a few blocks of the Nova City area.

    If anyone is reading this and worried about where to go in Taipa – I don’t think you can really go wrong with a place in Nova City. Oh, and it’s fun to tell the taxi drivers “Ho Teng Dong Wui”

  44. Dear Conrad,

    Are there any good restaurants within the walking distance from Nova City that are open for breakfast/ early lunch?

    My friend and I have to meet some friends at around noon on Monday, and they are suggesting the foodcourt at the Venetian, but I’d rather go somewhere with more character (and we’ll have been at the Venetian by that time, because we are going to the Circue the night before, so the same Venetian for two days in a row might be an overkill).

    Thank you very much!

  45. There is Tuk Tuk for Thai food – 4 blocks away same street as Altira Casino and Nova City, walk direction away from Altira and you’ll see Tuk Tuk on the right hand side.

    There’s also Le Caesar which serves American breakfasts, it’s on the row of restaurants on the other side of the big construction project next to Nova City. Many restaurants on this row.

    Also several restaurants by Japan Home Center – restaurants for locals with Macanese food.

    Just wanted to add that I was walking home from work a couple weeks ago and a stranger says to me “Do you have a blog? I know you” – so maybe I should start a little expat section on my forum at http://forum.conradaskland.com

  46. “Just wanted to add that I was walking home from work a couple weeks ago and a stranger says to me “Do you have a blog? I know you” – so maybe I should start a little expat section on my forum at http://forum.conradaskland.com

    Holidays – Palm Desert, March 2010

    I’m standing in front of a display case, considering a watch to take home as a gift for our daughter-in-law.

    A stranger strikes up a conversation with hub, who is waiting patiently while I make my selection.

    I’m not paying a lot of attention to their conversation, but hear them discussing cars. A few minutes
    later, they turn to music. Suddenly the volume of the conversation rises and I find both of them
    talking to me at the same time. The stranger is very excited, and saying to me: “You know
    Conrad Askland? How do you know Conrad?”

    Within seconds we are being invited to meet this gentleman’s band members and attend an event they’ll
    be playing.

    We were 1200 miles from home, and suddenly embraced by this most hospitable stranger who treated
    us like visiting royalty, because, ”…any friend of Conrad’s is a friend of mine!” Let me tell you, Conrad,
    you obviously leave quite an impression!

  47. Hi,

    I’m canadien and I will move for Macau at the bergining of september and I will work at the Venetian. I would like to know if you could give me some advise about the place to stay. I never went to Macau so I don’t know the good area and what kind of accomodation I can find…

    Thank you,

    Gladys

  48. Hi Gladys,
    Here on these comments you will see a lot of information for expats moving to Macau.

    Most people that work at the Venetian live on the island of Taipa or Coloane. Taipa is a 20 minute walk to work and you can find apartments as of August 2010 for anywhere from 6,000 to 9,000 MOP (Macau Patacas) which is about 750 to 1,150 USD. Taipa is not that big – you’ll see when you get here.

    If you live on Coloane island then you need to drive a car to work or take the bus.

    The two biggest apartment complexes on Taipa are Nova City and Ocean Garden. Nova City is a 20 minute walk to the Venetian. Ocean Garden most people take a bus or taxi to work. Even if you take a taxi to work it’s only around 20 MOP – or $2.50 USD.

    I do know some people that live actually in Macau island, but they all own cars and don’t mind driving or taking the bus. To me it is well worth the higher rent to live in Taipa, be able to walk to work and have English speaking people around.

    And there is literally an apartment real estate agent shop on every corner in Taipa – so no problem finding people to help you. Hope that helps.

  49. Hello there everyone… So i just arrived in Macau to continue my studies this September, and just got a 2bedroom appartment at Nova City and was wondering if anyone is interested in renting a room ( Master’s bedroom) Fully Furnished Apartment, cheers

  50. Hi,

    Im looking to find an apartment to rent for one month in macau, any idea where I should be looking or who to talk to? I need it ASAP essentially.

  51. Hi, thank you all for the info!!
    I will be moving to Macau on November with my wife. We will stay at a Hotel (probably Starworld) for 15 days until we find an apartment that could be in Macau or Taipa.

    We are looking for a 2 bedroom apartment with a nice view. Since I will be working from there I would prefer to have a good sight!

    Do you have any idea on prices or which apartment complexes should we look for?

    kind regards and congratulations for your blog.

    Gustavo,
    Buenos Aires, Argentina

  52. A lot of married couples prefer Coloane because it has lots of trees and is more like “being in nature”. But you’ll need to buy a car to travel to work and to buy groceries, etc.

    In Taipa there are so many nice places – The Manhattan (expensive), Kingsville and Nova City (mid-range), Prince Flower Garden, Nova Taipa – tons of places. Just find an agent and tell them what you’re looking for. If you’re a Westerner then they will already know what types of places you will like. If your agent speaks English – then they know what you want. Typical price range could be 7,000 to 10,000 MOP per month ($900-&1250 USD).

    Oh – check out Ocean Garden. The places are very nice at a good price – only catch is you probably need a bus or taxi to get to work. It’s on Taipa and they have busses running all the time. I like to walk to work and for groceries – but if that wasn’t a big deal to me I would consider Ocean Garden.

  53. Hi,

    Urgently need to lease a fully furnished good condition unit in Taipa with good security system and reasonable rental for not more than HK7500.

    Will be convenient if you could recommend me a place within walking distance nearby to the Grand Waldo Hotel/Venetian.

    Do you know of any owner/management office who is interested to lease?. What is the current market value of lease for 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom unit.

    Cheers

  54. Hi There Conrad!

    I stumbled upon your site because I was searching for apartments for rent in macau.

    Your website is really cool with lots of information to feed our hungry minds. I would just like to add that Cirque du soleil was incredible! i was able to watch it last july and I would like to watch it again when i come back in macau and work there for good!

    May God Bless you always,

    Paulette

  55. Thank you for the tip Conrad!

    One more question..¿Do you know anything about La Cite, The Praia or La Baie Du Noble.? All are in Macau look very nice and rane between 6500 for the first two and 4500 La Baie du Noble.

    Any help here?
    Thanks!

    Kind regards,

    Gustavo Cavaliere

  56. Hi Gustavo,
    I had a friend who lived in La Cite and liked it very much. They have a car park and a very nice pool with sand like a beach. It’s in Macau proper. That’s all I know about it.

  57. Greeting Conrad,

    I’m moving to Macau in late November. I was just wondering if you know any direct owner that would like to rent their property around MOP3500-4500. Studio, 1 bedroom is fine.
    For that price where can i get a decent place?

    Regards
    Adacco

  58. I am looking for a studio apartment in Taipa. It can be as small as 35-40 sqm. and no need kitchen.I dont cook anyway. I care only the address need to be safe for a woman living alone and may be back to the accommodation late at night alone.

    I will move there Feb 2011. Thanks

  59. Hi Conrad, I am coming to Macau in a few weeks and would like to rent an apartment with my wife and stay. She previously worked in Macau. Just wondering what the prices are like at present and do you have to exit the country each month if you don’t have work to get a visa extension? I’m Australian and they only gave me one month visa last two visits there. Thanks if you can offer any advice greatly appreciated.

  60. Hi Vincent,
    Ni hao! Prices have gone up a little but not much. You can find places for 5,000 HKD but most of the decent places are 7,000 to 9,000 HKD.

    I think tourist visas now are one month, then another month, then two weeks. Might be a bit different from that.

    You can make arrangements for a significant other. I’m not sure the details on that, but many people I work with have their spouses here with them and they do not have to exit every month.

    And to answer Mrs. Smith – Macau is VERY safe, especially if you live in Taipa which is basically the bedroom community for expats. You would only have problems in certain Macau areas like near the border gate or ferry terminal – and even then it’s nothing compared to a large city somewhere else. For me the safety is one of the great reasons to work in Macau.

  61. Dear Conrad! Thank You for such great info!
    I’m looking for a room or a small apartment for myself for just one month January 21st – February 19th in Taipa.
    Any information or advice/ideas where to look will be much appreciated!
    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

  62. Hello Conrad,

    I am a 22 year old boy and about to working in Galaxy Macau which building you took a picture from your window apartment (Cotai Strip/Taipa). Could you please give me some address/website of any “cheap” apartment; it would be great if you know some one (email) that I can share with. My budget does not go over 3000 MOP/375 USD.

    Thank you so much.

  63. Ni hao Chu,
    I think you will not have a problem finding a place to share for 3,000 MOP per month. There are even solo apartments for 3500 per month in Macau. My guess is you’ll find it easy to network once you’re here. Your colleagues will be able to tell you where to go.

  64. Hello Conrad,

    Would you know what school is beside Le Cite?

    Thanks for all the info being shared.

  65. Does anyone has any informations about ONE CENTRAL RESIDENCES in Macau ?
    What do you think about that place if you’ve heard about it ? Is it easy to get an apartment in there ? (1 or 2 bedrooms)
    Thank you in advance !

  66. Hi readers, I am from Hong Kong and will work at a 5-star hotel in Taipa in May. I would like to see if anyone is looking for a sharemate or has a studio/ 1-bedroom apartment for lease in Taipa, with no more than HKD6000 per month, or HKD4000 if shared.
    It would be great if anyone has some suggestions for me. Thank you!

  67. Hi askland,
    I was told the rental in Macau is rising due to several new hotels and developments opening. A studio apartment cost about 4500MOP/mth in Taipa now. Is that true? July, rental will be much higher? It is stressing me, as I have agreed with the package with the new company, will only be starting working in July. Very concern with the rising price of rental.

  68. Hi JJ fr SIN,
    I cannot disagree with those estimates. I’ve heard it’s more difficult to find places now. That being said, there are so many different kinds of places you can get. For instance, at Gongbei Border Gate there are free busses to all the casinos and lots of apartments to rent in that area. Not the best area, but prices are very low. I currently pay $8,500 HKD per month for 2,300 sq ft four bedroom. I think that’s a pretty good deal. Most of my friends are paying $8,000-$10,000 HKD per month (roughly $1,000 – $1,250 USD).

  69. Hi Conrad

    Your blog is great. You are such a helpful person. Many kudos to you.

    Could you please update for October 2011. Where are the prices now?

    Also, if a person were looking for a really knockout place, ie, 3 bedrooms, very spacious, flowing layout (wide rooms with great views), nice location with gym, pool ,etc., BUT very good value for the money, which buildings and area would be the best places to look? How much approximately would be the rent?

    Want to try to find a really nice place, but get exceptional value for the money in the context of Macau and also in the context of world prices.

    Appreciate your expertise. Look forward to your reply. Thanks.

  70. Hi Paul,
    Well I can tell you the latest info that I know of for September 2011.

    I have a friend who got a killer apartment at Pearl on the Lough – broad view of the water and over to Macau, very large and beautiful, unfurnished, I think a 3 bedroom for 15,000 HKD per month (roughly $1875.00 USD).

    I have a 3 bedroom with office, over 2300 sq ft, very nice custom wood floors, no view, furnished for 8500 HKD per month (about $1100.00 USD). I’ve been told I was very lucky to find a place like this at that price.

    My previous place was in Nova City, furnished, 2 bedroom, top floor with an outer view, a little small under 1,000 sq ft for 8500 HKD per month (around $1100.00 USD)

    I think 3 bd in Kingsville is around 12,000 HKD or more per month ($1500 USD).

    Friends that have looked for apartments this year say that it’s harder to find a place. I’ve been told my current apartment would sell for about one million USD, but in 2003 it would have sold for maybe $130,000. Pretty crazy.

    If you’re a Westerner and work at City of Dreams, Venetian or Galaxy – you really can’t go wrong living in Taipa. Very comfortable, safe and has everything you need.

    I would suggest planning on around 10,000 to 15,000 MOP ($1250 to $1875 USD) for a “killer pad”. You can find places for 6,000 MOP but you’ll have to give in on location or elements Western style housing.

    When I first came to Macau in early 2008 there was a co-worker of mine who actually rented a small apartment for under 4,000 MOP ($500 USD) per month. I wouldn’t want to have lived there but they enjoyed it.

    I do have one friend paying around $600 USD for a killer apartment they’ve lived in since 2008. But that’s really an exception. I wouldn’t count on finding something like that in 2011.

    FYI – the apartment on this blog post was my first apartment back in 2008. It probably rents for 11,500 MOP or more now.

  71. Hi there Conrad,

    Was looking for a low cost apartment for a short holiday of 3 nights in Macau and came across your blog. What interested me was that you are in the Cirque Du Soleil!

    The group of us coming are those who work with us as clowns, magicians, puppeteers, mime artistes, stilt walkers, jugglers, etc and they want to go for the shows in Macau! We’re coming in January 2011, so we don’t know what shows are available yet for that period of time.

    The coincidence of “bumping” into someone who does the same thing whilst looking for accommodation is just amazing!

    thanks for your write ups.

    Veronica

  72. Hi,

    We are looking for a place to stay in Macau from 23 December 2011 to 3rd January 2012. There are 6 of us 4 adults and 2 kids. Anyone can help me find the right apartment available to rent on these dates?

  73. hi conrad good day,how kind of you helping anybody visiting macau,it is a great attitude with a kind heart individual..anyway could you please help me and my friends who are planning to visit macau this coming feb.26,2012 to find an affordable place to stay for 3-4 weeks good for 4 heads…thanks and God bless

  74. Hi Pal Conrad,

    Do you know a place to rent a room or apartment which gives the cheapest price regardless of how cozy it is or not. It doesn’t matter as long as I have that one room I could stay just by myself…Coz I find many tourists who are in tight budget usually take that bedspace which starts at 500MOP,..

    awaiting for your big help my pal

  75. Hi Conrad,

    I am a British bloke, living in Hong Kong, and I am looking at doing some study at the University of Macau. Just wondering in your opinion, where would be the most convenient place to live and how much would I be expected to pay for a 1 bedroom. Cheers for your help.

  76. Hi Conrad,

    I will be going to Grand Lapa Macau to work real soon currently do you know of any place near there for rent which is not so expensive as i will be alone and try not to spend too much.:)

  77. hi can you find me a bachelor or studio typ good for 2 to 3 person only near in macau city or grand lisboa budget of mop 2000 or mop 4000 a month? please reply

  78. Hi Conrad, hope you have a chance to reply to this as I havent seen many recent posts, either way my name is michael vaz and i may be moving to macau with my family. Your site was by far the only helpful one and idecided to reach out for some help and advice, so would trily appreciate the advice, i need to look for a 3 bedroom not too far from the sofitel, rua de visconde part of macau, any advice for me?

  79. Hello!
    I see I’m a bit late, but I’m going to Macau next month (January 2013) and I’m desperate for a studio/loft/apartment in Macau, just for me and my boyfriend.
    Can somebody give me some tips,please?
    I can’t seem to find anything smaller than a 2bedroom! And we don’t have much money…
    Thank you for any help!

  80. Hi Conrad,
    Nothing to ask for just to tell you thx for this great informative blog…

    Hope you are still in Macau and enjoy life there!

    Take care and keep spreading the good words…

  81. Hi Conred,

    Thanks for your information, which is very helpful.
    I am moving to Macao probably in May or June and i need an full-furnished apt with 1 bedroom and kitchen, do you still live in Taipa, any recommendation on the pricing and area?

  82. Good day!

    May i request for a 3 nights quotation for 9pax (7 adults, 1 – 7yr old and 1 infant). WE are only 1 family.

    Our arrival at the airport is on oct. 24 estimated at 9:30pm and departure on oct 27 at 10pm. We are in a tight budget that’s why we decided to rent an apartment/home.

    How much is the total cost for 3 nights?

    Also, kindly provide us details on how many km/min (distance) from the city and airport in macau.

    Hoping for your immediate reply. thank you in advance.

    Maria Clarisa Garcia

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