One of the most important things to consider when moving to Bali is its cost of living.
Knowing how much you'll need to spend on a monthly basis is crucial in planning your budget and ensuring that you have enough funds to sustain your desired lifestyle.
Naturally, it's cheaper to reside in Bali or Indonesia than most western countries, but the cost of living can still vary greatly depending on your location, lifestyle and preferences.
Will you be living in a development hotspot like Bingin or a quieter village? Will you be cooking at home most of the time or dining out frequently?
To give you the confidence to pull the trigger on a Bali relocation, we've performed an in-depth study of the costs involved in living on this beautiful island.
Below we've broken down the main areas of expenditure, giving you a realistic view of what it costs to live in Bali. Here's what you can expect when it comes to Bali's cost of living (and how to make the most out of your budget).
Check it out now or skip to our FAQ section for a rough average of monthly costs!
Note: All prices are shown in USD.
There's no doubt that popular areas like Canggu, Uluwatu and Ubud come at a premium. However, there's more to Bali than just these iconic tourist zones. There exists a huge variety of accommodation types, from beach bungalows to modern villas and traditional Balinese houses.
The average price for a monthly rental in Bali varies depending on the type of accommodation, location and amenities.
For example, a small one-bedroom apartment in a popular area like Seminyak can cost upwards of $500 per month, while a similar property in a quieter part of the island might only set you back around $250 per month.
Local tip: Renting an apartment, room, villa or house long-term is generally more affordable than shorter stays with accommodation aggregators like Airbnb.
If there's one thing that Bali will always be famous for, it's the food. The rich cuisine is a fusion of Indonesian, Indian and Chinese influences, with plenty of fresh seafood readily available.
On average, a meal at a local warung or street food vendor can cost as little as $1-2. But if you prefer dining out in fancier establishments, expect to pay around $10-20 or more per meal.
Groceries are also quite affordable, especially when buying from traditional markets instead of supermarkets. Fresh produce like fruits and vegetables can be purchased for less than $20-30 for a week's worth of groceries.
Local tip: Head to the nearest traditional market early in the morning to get the freshest produce at bargain prices.
If we can give you one piece of advice when moving to Bali, it's this: make sure you have health insurance. While basic medical care can be affordable, serious illnesses or accidents can result in hefty bills that could drain your savings.
The cost of seeing a doctor for a consultation is around $20-30, and medication prices are relatively low. However, hospital stays and specialist treatments can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Local tip: Make sure to choose a plan that suits your lifestyle. If you intend on doing lots of adventure activities like liveaboard experiences, it's wise to opt for a more comprehensive insurance plan.
Despite being largely built up along the southern and southeastern coastlines, Bali remains relatively spread out and lacks a comprehensive public transportation system.
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Gojek, Grab and Bluebird are prevalent, but for longer distances or exploring the island, it might be more cost-effective to rent a motorbike or car.
On average, renting a basic scooter can cost around $50-80 per month, while a car rental can range from $200-400. Fuel prices in Bali are also comparatively lower than most countries.
Local tip: Be sure to negotiate with the rental company or individual for the best deal... but keep in mind that haggling too much can be considered disrespectful.
The nightclub, cinema and entertainment scene in Bali is still low-key by international standards. However, there's always something on offer for those seeking to unwind or let loose.
Most movie theatres and tourist attractions cost around $2-20 for admission, while a night out at a popular nightclub or bar can cost anywhere from $50-100.
That said, there are heaps of more affordable options if you know where to look. Many beach clubs and bars offer free entry, and there are always plenty of cultural events happening that are either low-cost or even free.
Local tip: Keep an eye out for happy hours and special deals at your favourite spots to save some extra cash. Also, try to explore more local and traditional forms of entertainment like attending a Balinese dance performance or visiting a temple ceremony.
Utilities like power, internet and water typically cost around $100 to $200 per month. Again, this largely depends on key factors such as location and usage.
Make sure to ask about utilities and internet whenever you're looking for accommodation, as some places may require additional payments on top of rent while others will incorporate these costs into the total monthly price.
Local tip: Consider using fan cooling instead of air conditioning to save on your monthly power bill. Also, look into Starlink for faster internet speeds.
Gyms, yoga studios and fitness centres are becoming increasingly popular in Bali, and prices can range from around $30-60 per month for a membership.
However, there are also plenty of outdoor activities like surfing, hiking and beach workouts that won't cost you a thing (except maybe some sunscreen!).
Local tip: Keep an eye out for free community events and classes to stay active while sticking to your budget.
Q. How much do I need to live comfortably in Bali?
A. This largely depends on your lifestyle and location, but a single person can easily get by with $500-1,000 per month while a couple might need upwards of $1,500-2,000 per month.
Q. Is tipping expected in Bali?
A. It's not mandatory but it's definitely appreciated. Tipping around 10% at restaurants and for services is common practice.
Q. Are there ways to save money while living in Bali?
A. Yes! Some ways include shopping at traditional markets instead of supermarkets, using local transportation options and taking advantage of happy hour deals and free events. Also, don’t be afraid to eat in!
Q. Are there any hidden costs to be aware of?
A. Yes, be mindful of tourism taxes and visa fees if you plan on staying long-term, as well as potential medical costs without proper insurance coverage. It's always best to do thorough research beforehand and have a buffer in your budget for unexpected expenses.
Bali can be one of the most affordable and beautiful places to live in the world... but it can also wreak havoc on your budget.
With so much variety and options for every price point, it's important to carefully plan and budget accordingly before making the move. Use the local tips above and always be aware of your spending to make the most out of your life in Bali.
We're here for a good time and a long time, after all!
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