Is Bali Still Cheap to Live?

Bali remains a relatively affordable destination for expats and digital nomads, with a comfortable lifestyle achievable on a monthly budget of around $1,500 to $2,000. Accommodation costs range from $250-700 per month, while food prices vary greatly depending on eating habits. Transportation costs are relatively low, with motorbike rentals available from $50-70 per month. With careful budgeting, a couple can live comfortably on a monthly budget of around $1,900. From housing to healthcare, discover the finer details of Bali's cost of living to uncover the island's hidden gems and make the most of your tropical getaway.

Cost of Living Breakdown

The cost of living in Bali can be broken down into several key expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs, with a couple able to live comfortably on a monthly budget of around $1,900. As a digital nomad or expat, understanding these expenses is essential to maintaining an affordable lifestyle in Bali. Food costs in Bali can range from $250-700 per month, depending on eating habits, with local warungs offering meals starting at around $1-2 USD. Transportation costs can range from $60-90 USD per month, depending on the mode of transport. With a little planning, Bali can be an affordable and desirable destination for those seeking a relaxed and exotic lifestyle. By understanding the cost of living breakdown, individuals can make informed decisions about their monthly expenses and enjoy a comfortable life in Bali.

Housing and Accommodation

When looking at Housing and Accommodation in Bali, there are various options to suit different budgets and preferences. From private rooms and flats to luxurious villa rentals, the choices are plentiful, and it's essential to weigh factors such as inclusions, living areas, and security when making a decision. In this section, we will delve into the different types of housing options available, including villa rentals, private rooms and flats, and long-term lease options, to help you make an informed decision about your accommodation in Bali.

Villa Rentals in Bali

Villa rentals in Bali offer a luxurious and comfortable housing option for expats, with prices varying greatly depending on factors such as location, amenities, and duration of stay. A three-bedroom villa with a pool near the beach can cost around $1,900 per month, while forgoing the pool can save a few hundred dollars. Renting a villa in popular areas like Seminyak or Ubud costs more than in places like Sanur or Uluwatu. Negotiating rent can result in a lower rate, especially for longer rentals. The location and proximity to the city or beach affect rent prices, with villas near popular areas costing more. With rent being a significant portion of the budget, a couple can live comfortably in Bali for around $1,900 per month.

Private Rooms and Flats

Beyond villa rentals, private rooms and flats offer a more affordable housing option in Bali, with prices varying depending on location, amenities, and lease duration. For those looking to move to Bali, a simple homestay room can be a cost-effective option, with prices starting from around $300 USD per month. This includes amenities like air-conditioning, hot water, and WIFI. For those seeking more space, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $500 per month, while renting outside the city center costs around $300 per month. When considering accommodation in Bali, factors such as inclusions, living areas, and security should be taken into account. Private rooms and flats provide a range of living options for expats, making it easier to manage living expenses in Bali.

Long-Term Lease Options

For those seeking long-term accommodation in Bali, a range of lease options are available, offering varying levels of luxury and affordability. Whether you're a digital nomad or expat, there are options to suit every budget.

Here are some key considerations for long-term leases:

1. Cost: A 2-3 bedroom villa with a pool can cost around $8,000 USD per year, while fully furnished villas can range from $1,500-2,500 USD per month.
2. Inclusions: Factors like inclusions, living areas, pool maintenance, road access, and security can impact the overall cost of the lease.
3. Commitment: Long-term leases often require a minimum commitment of 6-12 months, so it's crucial to carefully review the lease agreement before signing.

Living on the island can be affordable compared to other popular destinations, with options available in various areas of the island, starting from around $500 per month.

Food and Transportation

Daily life in Bali can be quite affordable, with meals and transportation options available at various price points to suit different budgets and lifestyles. In terms of food, meals at small warungs start at around $1-2 USD, offering an affordable option for locals and expats alike. For transportation, motorbike rentals cost approximately $50-$70 USD per month, with a full tank of fuel costing around $3 USD. Alternatively, buying a scooter can cost around $300 used or $900 new, with daily rentals available for $4 to $8. Gas for scooters can be found at local corner shops. With ride-hail apps starting from $1 per ride, transportation in Bali is convenient and affordable. In the area of food, Bali offers a range of affordable options for meals and transportation, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live on a budget.

Healthcare and Insurance

In addition to exploring the affordable food and transportation options in Bali, it is just as vital to prioritize healthcare and insurance, as having adequate coverage can greatly impact one's quality of life on the island.

Three essential considerations for healthcare and insurance in Bali are:

1. Health Insurance: Having health insurance is essential, with costs varying depending on age, pre-existing conditions, and coverage. Expat insurance policies can range from $500 to $8,000 per year.
2. Prescription Costs: Prescription costs are relatively inexpensive, with antibiotic refills available for as little as $11.
3. Insurance Solutions: Companies like Asialife in Kuta offer free consultations and assistance with insurance solutions, helping to find the best coverage for individual needs.

Having the right insurance can offer peace of mind and guarantee excellent medical care without breaking the bank, especially in cases of emergency or unexpected medical expenses.

Education and Childcare

In terms of education and childcare in Bali, expat families have several options available. School fees in Bali can vary greatly, depending on the type of institution and curriculum, with international schools offering a range of curricula at a higher cost. Meanwhile, childcare options are limited, but available, with costs ranging from IDR 1,500,000 to IDR 5,000,000 per month, depending on the type of care and the child's age.

School Fees in Bali

While planning a move to Bali with children, one of the essential factors to account for is the cost of education, as school fees in Bali can vary greatly depending on the type of institution and curriculum chosen. The average cost of international school fees in Bali can range from IDR 150 million to IDR 300 million (approximately USD 10,000 to USD 20,000) per year. However, local Indonesian schools offer a more affordable option, with annual fees ranging from IDR 1 million to IDR 5 million (approximately USD 70 to USD 350).

Three key points to think about:

1. International schools in Bali can cost around USD 10,000 to USD 20,000 per year.
2. Local Indonesian schools offer a more affordable option, with annual fees ranging from USD 70 to USD 350.
3. Some popular international schools in Bali offer discounts for siblings, early payment, or long-term commitments.

Understanding the cost of education in Bali is vital to maintaining a good quality of life when contemplating a move to the island.

Childcare Options Limited

Few expat families relocating to Bali are prepared for the limited childcare options available on the island, which can be a significant challenge for working parents. While there are a few international schools and nurseries catering to expat families, these options can be expensive. The Green School in Ubud offers a holistic education from preschool to high school, with annual tuition fees ranging from $5,500 to $13,500. Other options include Bali International School's nursery program, with fees ranging from $3,000 to $6,000, and The Island School's preschool program, with fees ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. The Canggu Club also offers childcare services, including a kids' club and babysitting services, starting from $10 per hour. These limited and costly options can be a significant burden for expat families in Bali.

Taxes and Finances

Managing one's finances is essential when living in Bali, as the island's unique tax landscape can have a significant impact on one's quality of life. As an expat, it's crucial to understand the tax implications of living in Bali, including income tax on earnings made in Indonesia. Here are three key financial considerations to keep in mind:

1. Taxes on income: Income earned in Bali is subject to Indonesian income tax, while income earned outside of Indonesia may be subject to taxes in the home country.
2. Cost of living: The cost of living in Bali can vary widely depending on lifestyle choices, but a comfortable living can be achieved for around $1500 – $2000 per month.
3. Budgeting: It's possible to live on $1000 a month in Bali, but it depends on lifestyle choices and budgeting, including expenses such as utilities and living arrangements.

Lifestyle and Leisure

Bali's rich cultural landscape and diverse range of leisure activities offer an unparalleled quality of life, from surfing and yoga to wellness retreats and sports leagues. Digital nomads can thrive in the island's growing startup scene, with coworking spaces and networking opportunities available. When living in Bali, couples can enjoy a regal lifestyle for $1,900 per month, covering housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities. The island's food scene boasts a delicious local cuisine, and entertainment options abound with numerous festivals and events throughout the year, often free or low-cost to attend. With affordable transportation and a range of leisure activities priced between $10 to $50 per session, Bali offers an attractive cost of living for those who want to live life to the fullest.