Bali is one of the most popular destinations in the world for travelers, Bali Living Expenses digital nomads, and expats alike. Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and affordable lifestyle, it’s no surprise that many people dream of living in Bali. However, to make your stay comfortable and hassle-free, understanding the Bali living expenses is crucial. This guide breaks down the 10 essential costs you need to budget for when planning your move or extended stay in Bali.
1. Accommodation Costs in Bali
Bali Living Expenses Accommodation is usually the biggest expense when living in Bali. You have options ranging from budget guesthouses and homestays to luxury villas. For long-term stays, renting a one-bedroom apartment or villa can cost anywhere between \$300 to \$1,000 per month, depending on the location and amenities.
Areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud tend to be more expensive due to their popularity among expats and tourists. Meanwhile, quieter areas such as Sanur or East Bali can be more affordable.
Tips to save on accommodation:
Bali Living Expenses Negotiate monthly rates (often cheaper than daily rates).
Consider guesthouses or co-living spaces popular among digital nomads.
Avoid peak tourist seasons for better deals.
2. Food and Dining Expenses
Bali Living Expenses Bali offers a wide range of dining options, from cheap local warungs (small eateries) to upscale international restaurants. Eating local dishes like nasi goreng or mie goreng at warungs can cost as little as \$1 to \$3 per meal. Western meals at cafes or restaurants typically range from \$5 to \$15.
If you prefer cooking at home, local markets provide fresh produce and ingredients at low prices, which can help reduce your food budget.
Monthly food budget estimates:
Cooking mostly at home: around \$150 to \$250.
Eating out frequently: around \$300 to \$500.
3. Transportation Costs
Bali Living Expenses Getting around Bali is affordable but requires some planning. The most popular transportation options include:
Scooter rental: The cheapest and most convenient way to get around, scooters cost about \$50 to \$70 per month.
Gasoline: Around \$0.80 per liter, a full tank lasts about a week for daily commuters.
Bali Living Expenses Ride-hailing apps: Services like Gojek and Grab are widely used and affordable, with typical rides costing between \$1 and \$5 depending on distance.
Car rentals or taxis: More expensive, with daily rates for cars starting at \$25.
Scooters are the preferred choice for most expats due to Bali’s traffic and narrow streets.
4. Utilities and Internet Bills
Utilities such as electricity, water, and garbage collection are generally inexpensive but can vary depending on your accommodation type and usage.
Electricity: Monthly bills typically range from \$30 to \$70.
Water: Bali Living Expenses Usually included in rent but can cost about \$5 to \$10 if billed separately.
Internet: Reliable high-speed internet is available, with plans ranging from \$25 to \$50 per month for unlimited data.
It’s essential to check with your landlord or villa manager about what utilities are included to budget accurately.
5. Health Insurance and Medical Costs
Bali Living Expenses Access to healthcare in Bali is decent, with clinics and hospitals available in major areas. Expats usually opt for private clinics or international hospitals in Denpasar and Kuta for better services.
Basic medical consultations can cost between \$20 and \$50, while more advanced treatments and emergencies will be higher. Many expats choose to have international health insurance, which can cost from \$50 to \$200 per month depending on coverage.
Budgeting for health insurance is vital to avoid unexpected high medical expenses.
6. Leisure and Entertainment
Bali’s nightlife and entertainment scene are vibrant, with many bars, clubs, yoga studios, and cultural events.
Bars and clubs: Expect to pay \$3 to \$7 for local beers and \$5 to \$10 for cocktails.
Yoga classes: Around \$5 to \$15 per session.
Cultural activities and tours: Prices vary but budget \$20 to \$100 for day trips, temple visits, or workshops.
Allocating a leisure budget of around \$100 to \$300 per month allows you to enjoy Bali’s rich culture and social life comfortably.
7. Mobile Phone and SIM Card Costs
Bali Living Expenses Staying connected is easy and cheap in Bali. You can buy prepaid SIM cards with data plans from major providers like Telkomsel, XL, or Indosat.
SIM card cost: Around \$1 to \$3.
Data plans: Typically \$5 to \$15 per month for 5 to 15 GB of data.
For most people, a monthly budget of \$10 to \$20 covers phone and mobile internet needs.
8. Household Help and Services
Bali Living Expenses Hiring a housekeeper or helper is common in Bali and is very affordable. Many expats hire domestic help for cleaning, cooking, or gardening
Housekeeper wages: Around \$100 to \$200 per month for part-time help.
Additional services like laundry or driver hire will add to your budget.
Hiring local help can greatly improve your living experience at a reasonable cost.
9. Visa and Administrative Fees
Bali Living Expenses Depending on your nationality and length of stay, visa costs and extensions are essential expenses.
Visa on Arrival: \$35 for 30 days, extendable once.
Social-Cultural Visa: Around \$50 to \$70 for 60 days, extendable up to 6 months.
KITAS (temporary stay permit): Monthly costs vary but typically start around \$200 to \$300.
It’s important to factor visa runs or extensions into your budget to avoid surprises.
10. Miscellaneous Expenses
Unexpected or miscellaneous expenses can include:
Clothing and personal care items.
Household supplies.
Gifts and social events.
Transportation for weekend trips or exploring other parts of Bali.
Setting aside \$50 to \$150 per month for miscellaneous expenses can help cover these variable costs.
Conclusion
Living in Bali can be incredibly affordable compared to many Western countries, but it still requires thoughtful budgeting. By understanding these 10 essential costs—from accommodation and food to transportation and health insurance—you can create a realistic monthly budget that suits your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a short stay or a long-term move, being prepared financially ensures you can fully enjoy everything Bali has to offer without stress.
Bali offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a laid-back lifestyle—all at a cost that many find surprisingly manageable. With some planning and budgeting, you can live comfortably and enjoy the island’s many charms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does it cost to live comfortably in Bali?
A comfortable lifestyle in Bali typically costs between \$1,000 to \$1,500 per month, covering rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities.
2. Is health insurance necessary when living in Bali?
While not mandatory, having health insurance is highly recommended to cover potential medical emergencies or treatments at private clinics and hospitals.
3. Can I find cheap accommodation in popular areas like Canggu or Seminyak?
It is possible, especially if you rent for longer terms and avoid peak seasons, but prices tend to be higher than less touristy areas.
4. What is the easiest way to get around Bali?
Renting a scooter is the most popular and cost-effective way to navigate Bali’s roads, especially in busy areas.
5. Are utilities included in rent in Bali?
It depends on your rental agreement. Some places include electricity, water, and Wi-Fi, while others charge separately. Always clarify before signing a contract.