The Cost of Living in Bali

This is a general cost of living in Bali guide for foreigners and expats for the long-term in 2024.

Bali, a province of Indonesia, offers an idyllic setting that many dream of calling home. With its picturesque landscapes, cultural depth, and warm community, the island beckons those looking for a slower pace of life with the promise of adventure.

Yet, living in paradise has its price, and understanding the cost of living is vital for anyone considering Bali as their new base.

Accommodation: Finding Your Bali Home

The choice of accommodation in Bali ranges from the humble to the high-end. Budget-conscious expats can find a room in a shared house for as little as $200 per month, while those seeking privacy and luxury might opt for a villa, setting them back anywhere from $400 to $2000 monthly. Popular expat areas such as Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud command higher prices due to their amenities and expat-friendly communities while in quieter locales like Amed, your money stretches further.

Eating Out: Savor the Flavors of Bali

The Balinese food experience is both diverse and affordable. Local warungs offer Indonesian meals for $1-$4, allowing you to enjoy Bali’s flavors on a budget. Western restaurants and trendy cafes serve international dishes at a higher cost, usually $5-$10 per meal. Theres also plenty of options for world-class fine dining for those special occasions with prices north of $50. Balinese markets also offer fresh produce for those preferring to cook at home, providing an even more cost-effective way to dine. GoJek is an excellent option for delivery and is surprising cost-effective.

Transportation: Navigating the Island

Renting a scooter is the most economical and convenient way to travel around Bali, costing about $50-$70 per month or you can buy a decent used one from $500. It affords the flexibility to explore Bali’s diverse landscapes, from the central mountains to coastal roads. For those uncomfortable with motorbikes, car rentals and driver services are available, though at a premium due to traffic conditions. GoJek again is useful for motorbike rides from $1 – $3 for short rides around town.

Daily Necessities: Utilities and More

Living expenses such as electricity, water, and internet are comparatively inexpensive but can add up with extensive use of air conditioning or high-speed internet requirements. On average, expats can expect utility costs to range from $50 to $90 monthly. However, if using air conditioning daily and villas with swimming pools this can easily double. Groceries vary, with local produce being very affordable, while imported goods carry a higher price tag similar to the United States or UK.

Leisure and Entertainment: Enjoying the Bali Lifestyle

Bali’s leisure activities offer something for everyone. Yoga classes and gym memberships are plentiful, averaging $5-$10 per session or $30-$100 for monthly memberships. Nightlife options are abundant, with the cost of a night out varying widely based on personal choices. Beach clubs, bars, and live music venues offer diverse entertainment options. Cinema movie tickets are about $3 for regular seats or $6 for premium, we always opt for the latter.

Visas and Legalities: Staying in Bali

The visa process is an important consideration for long-term stays. Various visa types, from tourist to social to retirement visas, come with different costs and stipulations. The initial visa cost and extensions for a six-month social visa can total around $50 plus additional extension fees. A 2 year visa known as investor kitas are available for about $1200.

Healthcare and Insurance: Protecting Yourself in Paradise

Healthcare in Bali is a critical consideration. International health and travel insurance plans range from $30 to $100 per month based on coverage levels and personal factors. Bali has both public and private healthcare facilities, and expats typically opt for private care for better service quality. Dental services are widely available and expat friendly with prices significantly lower than that of the United States.

Bali Cost of Living Price List

Please note that prices can vary greatly depending on the specific area in Bali, the time of year, and other factors:

These prices should provide a general idea of the cost of living in Bali in 2024, although it’s always wise to seek out current prices, as they can fluctuate with the seasons and economic changes. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you may want to consult local resources or expat forums.

Conclusion: Is Bali Right for You?

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a retiree, or a digital nomad, Bali offers a lifestyle choice that can be customized to fit various budgets and preferences. While it’s possible to live modestly for $700-$1000 a month, a more comfortable expat lifestyle, with occasional indulgences, can cost around $1500-$2000. With careful budgeting and a willingness to adapt, the dream of island living is attainable.

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This article should serve as a foundation for those plotting their move to Bali, providing the necessary details to budget effectively for life on the island. With prudent financial planning, the move to Bali can be both exciting and sustainable.

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