Student Accommodation in Petaling Jaya

Petaling Jaya (PJ) is a core city in the state of Selangor, Malaysia, bordering Kuala Lumpur and forming an essential part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan Area. As Malaysia's first planned city, PJ is known for its excellent infrastructure, quality living environment and thriving educational resources.PJ is home to a number of top tertiary institutions, including Sunway University and SEGi University (SEGi), which are prominent in the business sector.

The advantages of choosing to study in PJ are significant: firstly, the quality of education is internationally recognized, with a number of prestigious universities; secondly, it is a convenient place to live, with large shopping malls such as 1 Utama and The Curve, and an abundance of culinary choices; thirdly, it is culturally diverse, with a good English-speaking environment; and fourthly, it is full of employment opportunities, and is close to Kuala Lumpur's business districts. In terms of consumption level, PJ is about 15-20% lower than the Kuala Lumpur city centre. Petaling Jaya accommodation monthly rent is RM550-1500; students can choose cheap hotels in Petaling Jaya at uhomes.com. Catering costs RM8-15 per meal, and public transportation is approximately RM1-3 one-way, making the overall cost effective. The overall cost-effectiveness of PJ is very high, which makes it an ideal choice for studying in Malaysia. In addition, PJ has good security and community facilities, making it particularly suitable for international students to live and study for an extended period of time.

Residents of Petaling Jaya have a wide selection of traditional stores, as well as several medium-sized and large shopping centres. Some of the large shopping centres are Wanda Plaza, Ikano Power Centre, The Curve, Amcorp Mall and Tropicana City Mall. Gardens, New Town and Old Town. In the early days of Petaling Jaya's development, local stores were primarily located in Old Town, New Town, or District 14.

Finding the best Petaling Jaya accommodation is crucial for students. When selecting an ideal house for rent in Petaling Jaya, key factors to consider include proximity to campus, fully furnished units, affordability, and safety. We offer a wide range of apartments for rent in Petaling Jaya to suit all your needs and preferences. Our student accommodation in Petaling Jaya comes fully equipped with everything you need, including study rooms, game lounges, gyms, laundry facilities, and other shared spaces, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable university life. Here are some of the best rooms for rent in Petaling Jaya:

• Emporis Kota Damansara - BL
• Icon City - BL
• Verando Residences
• 16 Jalan PJS 9/10 Bandar Sunway
• Emporis Kota Damansara - BL
• Geo Sense @ Bandar Sunway - K
• Pacific Star - K
• PJ Midtown - AR
• No 8, Jalan PJS 9/28 Bandar Sunway

At uhomes.com, we offer a wide selection of budget hotels in Petaling Jaya starting from just RM550/month - and yes, all bills are included! No hidden costs, no surprises. Our cheap hotels in Petaling Jaya are strategically located near major universities and public transport (LRT/MRT/bus stations), making student life so much easier. What's more, our Petaling Jaya accommodation comes with exclusive student discounts! Simply contact our friendly housing advisors to book your perfect cheap student accommodation in Petaling Jaya. They'll help you find the ideal place that fits both your budget and lifestyle. Here are some of our most popular and cheap apartments for rent in Petaling Jaya:

• Emporis Kota Damansara - BL
• Icon City - BL
• Sapphire Paradigm
• Petalz Residences
• D' Quince
• Emporis Kota Damansara - IC
• No 18, Jalan PJS 9/14
• PJ Midtown - AR
• D'Seven @ Bandar Sunway Co-Living - S
• Ruby Seapark @ Petaling Jaya

When studying in Petaling Jaya (PJ), choosing the right neighbourhood to rent an apartment in is crucial - it's as much about commuting convenience as it is about cost of living and security. As one of Kuala Lumpur's most vibrant satellite cities, PJ's different neighbourhoods have their unique characteristics: from lively foodie havens to quiet college districts, and from cost-effective Petaling Jaya accommodations to modern neighbourhoods with great amenities. Below is a selection of 7 local PJ neighbourhoods, all located within the municipal jurisdiction, to help you find the ideal room for rent in Petaling Jaya that best matches your study needs!

1. SS2

One of PJ's liveliest neighbourhoods, SS2 is known as a foodie paradise, with dozens of tea houses, night markets, and 24-hour restaurants. The convenience of life here is full of points, with banks, supermarkets and clinics within walking distance, and room for rent in Petaling Jaya is extremely cost-effective (about RM600-900 for a single room). Although it is not a high-end residential area, the LRT bus service makes it very convenient to UM, Taylor's and other schools, especially for students who like fireworks.

2. Damansara Utama

Adjacent to the famous shopping centre 1 Utama, this is a prime location in PJ. It is a prime location in PJ. It is dominated by mid-range and high-end apartments, with good neighbourhood security, and within walking distance of online cafes and boutique supermarkets. Although the rent of a house for rent in Petaling Jaya is a bit high (RM800-1200 for a single room), it is suitable for international students who pursue a quality life due to the advantage of its dual-track transportation (LRT and MRT) and only a 10-minute drive to HELP University.

3. Kota Damansara

Emerging student neighbourhood, where SEGi University's main campus is located. The highlight is the low cost of living (RM500-800 for a single room) and the modern community planning with a free shuttle bus to and from the MRT station. There is a large ECM supermarket and AEON shopping mall in the neighbourhood, especially recommended for budget-conscious engineering students - only 15 minutes drive from APU University.

4. Section 17

A traditional rental area for University of Malaya (UM) students with a collegiate atmosphere. Old Chinese tea rooms and literary bookstores are located next to each other, and apartments for rent in Petaling Jaya have affordable rents (RM550-750 for a single room). Although the building is a bit old, it's a 5-minute walk to the back entrance of UM, and you can still get a Mamak stall in the early hours of the morning, so it's the first choice for those who are on a budget but looking for a convenient place to study.

5. Bandar Sunway

The core area of the University Town of Sunway is the "neighbourhood at the doorstep of the university". From high-end apartments, Geo Residence, to budget suites (RM600- 1000 per room), downstairs is the Bandar Sunway Pyramid shopping mall. The unique inter-campus bus system allows students to commute to Sunway University/Monash University with ease. There is plenty of nightlife, but the security is good.

6. PJ Old Town 

A culturally rich old town with colonial architecture. PJ hotel has the lowest rent (RM450-700 for a single room) and is suitable for artsy students. Although it takes 15 minutes by bus to get to schools like HELP/UTAR, the slow life cycle of traditional coffee shops and independent bookstores is a source of inspiration for creative students.

7. Taman Paramount

The king of value for money along the LRT, only 1 stop to UTAR/APU. The neighbourhood is small but has all the essentials, including food markets and study cafes. Unique advantage is the large number of renovated old houses converted into Petaling Jaya accommodation (single room RM500-700 with air-conditioning), suitable for pragmatists who have a lot of morning classes.

Discover Premium student accommodation in Petaling Jaya with uhomes.com! We offer an extensive selection of private Petaling Jaya accommodation that has become international students' top choice for three compelling reasons:

1. Exceptional value with Petaling Jaya house rentals starting from just RM550-1500/month (20% more affordable than Kuala Lumpur city centre).

2. Comprehensive security systems including 24-hour access control, CCTV surveillance, and fingerprint recognition.

3. Resort-style amenities ranging from practical study rooms, high-speed WiFi, and laundry facilities to recreational swimming pools, gyms, and BBQ areas.

Our featured properties, like Icon City (with an infinity pool) and Geo Residence (featuring high-speed elevators), are specifically designed for student needs, with most located within a 10-minute walk to LRT stations. Booking through uhomes.com grants you exclusive student benefits, including special discounts, all-inclusive utility packages, and dedicated customer support, making your search for the perfect student apartment in Petaling Jaya both hassle-free and budget-friendly!

At uhomes.com, we understand that every student has unique accommodation needs. That's why we offer a diverse selection of room types in Petaling Jaya to suit different preferences and budgets. Our student-centric properties all come fully equipped with essential amenities at competitive prices, ensuring comfortable living while pursuing academic goals. Below are the features of each room type in Petaling Jaya accommodation: 

1. Studio apartment for rent in Petaling Jaya: For students who value their privacy, our studio apartments provide complete independence with private bathroom, kitchenette, and combined living/sleeping space - perfect for postgraduate researchers needing quiet study environments. These self-contained units offer the ultimate in personal space and tranquillity.

2. Single room for rent in Petaling Jaya: The single room option strikes an ideal balance between privacy and affordability. Featuring a private bedroom with basic furnishings, residents share common areas like bathrooms and kitchens with a small number of housemates. This popular choice offers great value for money while maintaining personal space.

3. 1-bedroom apartments: Our 1-bedroom apartments take privacy to the next level with separate living areas, offering more space than studios. These units are particularly suitable for couples or students who appreciate having distinct living, sleeping and study areas while still enjoying the benefits of student accommodation.

4. 2-5 bedrooms: For the more socially inclined, our shared apartments with 2-5 bedrooms create vibrant communities. These spacious units encourage interaction and friendship-building while keeping costs low through shared facilities. The communal living setup makes them perfect for undergraduates looking to expand their social circle.

Looking for ideal accommodation in Petaling Jaya? We offer a comprehensive range of flexible rental options to perfectly match your study plans. From long-term roots to short-term stays, our Petaling Jaya accommodation can be customised to suit you best.

Long-term Petaling Jaya Accommodation

Long-term Petaling Jaya accommodation is the preferred choice of most full-time students, with a 48-52 week rental period that perfectly matches the pace of the academic year. This stabilised housing option not only eliminates the hassle of moving frequently but also offers optimised rental rates, making it ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students who need to complete their entire degree program at PJ.

Short-term Petaling Jaya Accommodation

Our short-term Petaling Jaya accommodation offers flexible options ranging from 1 to 38 weeks for specific study needs. Whether it's a summer course, a semester exchange, or an internship program, these flexible leases offer a seamless accommodation solution. Through the uhomes.com platform, you can easily book a quality property that matches your specific time period, making short-term study hassle-free.

Flexible Petaling Jaya Accommodation

Flexible Petaling Jaya accommodation can help students with special needs by offering a range of rental periods to meet their diverse needs. Whether you're looking to stay for a week, a month, or need to renew or end your lease at any time, uhomes.com can cater to your needs!

Studying in Petaling Jaya and planning your budget wisely is an essential part of study abroad life. As one of the most popular education centres around Kuala Lumpur, the cost of living in PJ is 15-20% lower than the city centre, but exact expenses will vary depending on individual lifestyles. Generally speaking, the main monthly expenses for international students include accommodation, food, transportation, miscellaneous study expenses, and entertainment, categorised in several areas, with the total cost usually ranging from RM1,500 to RM3,500. Below is the detailed cost analysis:

1. Petaling Jaya accommodation

• Studio house for rent in Petaling Jaya: RM1,200-1,800/month
• 1 Bedroom Apartment: RM1,500-2,200/month
• 2-5 Bedroom: RM450-750/month/person

2. Food and Drink

Cafeteria/street stalls: RM600-900/month, self-cooked + occasional eating out: RM800-1,200/month

3. Transportation

Public Transportation: RM100-200/month, Grab: RM200-400/month

4. Other Necessary Expenses

Miscellaneous Study Fee: RM50-150/month, Cell Phone Bill + Internet: RM50-100/month, Living Supplies: RM100-200/month

5. Recreation and Socialisation

Movie/Cafe: RM100-200/month, Shopping/Weekend Activities: RM200-400/month

As an essential education hub in Malaysia, Petaling Jaya is home to a comprehensive network of prestigious institutions of higher learning. These institutions range from public research universities, private comprehensive universities and specialised colleges, providing a wide range of academic choices for local and international students. From medicine and engineering to business and information technology, Petaling Jaya's universities are known for their quality of teaching, advanced research facilities and internationalised curricula, and work closely with some of the world's leading institutions. Below are the universities in Petaling Jaya and their specialities:

1. University of Malaya (UM)

As the oldest national university in Malaysia, UM has part of its campus and research centres in Petaling Jaya. While the main campus is located in Kuala Lumpur, its Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in PJ is an important teaching and research base for the university, providing clinical training and practical opportunities for medical students.

2. Taylor's University

Taylor's University's main campus is located in Subang Jaya, but it has a business school and continuing education centre in Damansara Heights, Petaling Jaya. The university is known for its hospitality management, business and computer science, and offers an internationally aligned curriculum.

3. Sunway University

Although Sunway University's main campus is located in Bandar Sunway, it has teaching centres and administrative offices at various locations in Petaling Jaya. The university has partnered with Lancaster University in the UK to provide quality education in the fields of engineering, business and medicine.

4. HELP University

HELP University's main campus is located in Damansara Heights, Petaling Jaya and is one of the top private universities in Malaysia. Known for its psychology, business and law programs, it offers a full range of educational programs from matriculation to PhD.

5. SEGi University

SEGi University has its main campus in Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya and offers a diverse range of academic programs in medicine, engineering, business and mass communication. The university emphasises hands-on teaching and maintains partnerships with a number of companies.

6. Tunku Abdul Rahman University College

TAR UC has a branch campus in SS2, Petaling Jaya and offers programs in the fields of business, engineering and mass communication. The college is known for its cost-effective quality of education and excellent facilities.

Studying at Petaling Jaya, a well-developed transportation network makes it easy for students living off-campus Petaling Jaya accommodation to commute between campus and the city. As one of the most well-connected education cities in the Kuala Lumpur metropolitan area, PJ integrates a diverse range of public transportation options to provide flexible commuting solutions for students with different budgets and needs.

1. Express Rail Transit (LRT/MRT)

Petaling Jaya has 5 LRT stations (Kelana Jaya Line) and 2 MRT stations (Kajang Line) covering the main university area. Students living in SS2 can walk to Taman Bahagia Station (10 mins), which is a 15-minute direct ride to Taylor's University. At the same time, Damansara Utama residents can utilise the TTDI station for quick access to HELP University. The railroad operates from 6:00 to 24:00 and offers a 50% discount on the monthly student pass.

2. Shuttle Buses

Most PJ private universities provide free school buses to nearby residential areas. For example, Sunway University's Circle Bus runs every 20 minutes and connects to major student residences such as Geo Residence, Sunway Monash, etc. The Rapid KL bus system fills in the areas that are not reached by the railways, especially the T789 route towards the University of Malaya (UM) Medical Campus, which has been increased to every 10 minutes during morning rush hours. Rapid KL bus system fills in the areas not reached by the railways, especially the T789 route towards the University of Malaya (UM) Medical Campus, which has been increased to every 10 minutes during morning peak hours.

3. Grab/AirAsia Ride

Grab carpooling services are handy for early morning classes or nighttime travel. PJ has the highest rate of Grab usage in Malaysia, with off-peak fares from SS2 to the universities ranging from RM5 to RM8. Some student residence reception counters offer "Grab Group Hailing Boards", which share the cost of the ride to RM2-3 per person, a 60% saving compared to hailing a separate ride. 60% less than hailing a car alone. 4.

4. Bicycles and Motorised Scooters

PJ City Hall has recently improved its network of bicycle lanes, which are ideal for short commutes of up to 3km. Students can purchase second-hand bicycles (around RM200) or use the DropBike sharing service (RM1/30 minutes). Note: Avoid main roads such as Jalan Universiti, and we recommend green cycling routes within the Section 17 residential area.

5. Walking

Most off-campus rooms for rent in Petaling Jaya sites follow the "15-minute living circle" principle. In Kota Damansara, for example, SEGi University has supermarkets, clinics, and restaurants within a 1-km radius of the campus, and the campus is accessible via covered walkways on rainy days. The City Hall has installed additional night lighting and emergency call posts in the main school area to improve walking safety.

Malaysia is home to some of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities, and Petaling Jaya is undoubtedly one of them. As one of the country’s most breathtaking travel destinations, this vibrant town offers visitors a wide variety of attractions. From sprawling shopping malls and captivating night markets to friendly neighbourhoods and historical landmarks, Petaling Jaya boasts countless highlights that will leave you wanting more.

Accommodation is a crucial aspect of student life, and Petaling Jaya provides a wide range of housing options—from on-campus dormitories to off-campus apartments. On-campus dorms are typically just a short walk from classrooms, equipped with essential facilities and enhanced security. Meanwhile, off-campus Petaling Jaya accommodation options are available in popular areas like SS2 and Damansara Utama, ranging from affordable shared units to high-end apartments with amenities like swimming pools and gyms. Rental prices for Petaling Jaya accommodation range from RM550 to RM3,000 per month, catering to students with varying budgets. Many room for rent Petaling Jaya listings even include free shuttle services to nearby universities, offering a great balance between comfort and convenience.

As one of Malaysia’s most dynamic satellite cities, Petaling Jaya is more than just livable—it’s a haven for food, fun, and lifestyle, with something to offer everyone. Food lovers will enjoy everything from the long-standing SS2 night market to trendy dining hubs like Jaya One, The Curve, and Paradigm Mall. Here, you can indulge in Malaysian classics such as satay, char kway teow, and nasi lemak, or explore fusion cuisines, artisanal desserts, and speciality cafés. For entertainment, PJ is never short on excitement—you can shop at mega malls like 1 Utama and Sunway Pyramid, watch the latest movies, or try indoor adventures like rock climbing, indoor skiing, or escape rooms. As night falls, the city comes alive with bars, lounges, and karaoke spots perfect for unwinding. Families with kids will find joy in destinations like KidZania, Jump Street, and Escape PJ, which offer educational and fun activities. Nature lovers aren’t left out either—parks like Taman Jaya and Bukit Gasing provide serene settings for jogging, hiking, or simply relaxing. All in all, Petaling Jaya seamlessly blends gastronomy, shopping, culture, recreation, and nature, making it a lively, multifaceted city that embodies the best of modern urban living.

Petaling Jaya has many popular attractions that students can visit with their friends in their free time. Especially students living in off-campus Petaling Jaya accommodation options will have more convenient access to the surrounding area of Petaling Jaya, allowing them to enjoy the rich culture, entertainment, and natural resources. This will save them commuting time and enhance the overall quality of their study abroad experience.

1. Sunway Pyramid Sun Pyramid Mall

Sunway Pyramid is Petaling Jaya's most iconic shopping and entertainment complex, renowned for its pyramid-shaped exterior and Egyptian-inspired architecture. The mall is home to over 800 retail outlets, ranging from international fashion brands to local specialities. Apart from shopping, the food court offers a diverse selection of delicious cuisines from around the world. In addition, there are recreational facilities such as an ice skating rink, movie theatres, and bowling alleys, making it the perfect place for the whole family to relax and have fun.

2. Sunway Lagoon Sunway Waterpark

Adjacent to the Sunway Pyramid, Sunway Lagoon is one of Malaysia's most popular theme parks, spanning a vast area with six themed zones, including a water park, a thrill-seeking amusement park, a safari park, a haunted experience zone, an extreme sports zone, and Nick's Kids' Playground. It's a great place for families, couples and groups of friends to come and enjoy a full day of excitement and fun, perfect for holidays or weekends to relax and unwind.

3. 1 Utama Shopping Centre Wanda Shopping Mall

One of the largest shopping malls in Southeast Asia, 1 Utama boasts more than 700 stores and is a comprehensive mall that combines shopping, dining, entertainment and eco-experience. In addition to traditional retail outlets, 1 Utama features a Rainforest indoor garden, as well as outdoor experience areas, including a rock climbing centre and zip line. The mall is also home to several movie theatres and food chains, making it one of the most popular places for young people and families to gather.

4. The Curve Shopping Centre

The Curve is an open-plan shopping mall that combines lifestyle and dining, and is located next to the IKEA and IPC shopping centres. The mall features a casual atmosphere, complete with numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants ideal for friends and couples. On weekends, the plaza outside the mall hosts a creative bazaar selling handicrafts, local snacks and cultural goods, showcasing the unique cultural flavour of the community.

5. Taman Jaya Park

Taman Jaya is one of the earliest community parks developed in Petaling Jaya and is conveniently located next to the LRT station. The tree-lined park features a lake, fitness facilities, a jogging track and a children's playground, making it a great place for morning walks, relaxation and family picnics. In the evening, the park is frequented by runners, walkers and Tai Chi players, demonstrating the leisurely pace of life of the residents.

6. Bukit Gasing Gasing Hill Forest Reserve

Bukit Gasing is a rare natural forest reserve within the PJ metropolitan area and is a popular destination for mountaineering and hiking enthusiasts. There are several hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate, where you can take a breath of fresh air, exercise in the forest, and even overlook part of the Kuala Lumpur skyline from the top of the hill. Many fitness enthusiasts gather there in the early morning or on weekends, and the atmosphere is serene and healing.

7. SS2 Night Market

SS2 Night Market is one of the most popular and traditional night markets in PJ, open every Monday, with a variety of local food vendors and lifestyle stalls. With offerings ranging from fried rice, barbecued fish, and fried kuey teow to handmade milk tea and chicken fried steak, the market provides a wide range of choices at affordable prices, making it an ideal way to discover more about the local food culture and lifestyle. The night market is bustling with people and is a must-see stop for experiencing Malaysia's vibrant nightlife.