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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Bali 2024
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Ubud on Bali Island, Indonesia


Cost of Living in Bali

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Bali helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Bali can range from $400 to $1,000 per month, while outside of the city center, rent can range from $200 to $600 per month.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Bali can range from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on the size and location of the property.
Transportation Public transportation in Bali is relatively inexpensive, with a one-way ticket costing around $0.50. Taxis are also available, with fares starting at around $2.50.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Bali is relatively low, with a typical grocery bill for a family of four costing around $50 per week.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Bali can vary greatly, depending on the type of restaurant. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $10 per person, while a meal at a high-end restaurant can cost around $30 per person.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Bali is relatively low, with the average monthly cost for electricity, water, and gas for a two-bedroom apartment costing around $50.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Bali can vary greatly, depending on the school. Tuition for preschool can range from $200 to $1,000 per month, while tuition for elementary school can range from $400 to $2,000 per month. Tuition for middle school can range from $500 to $3,000 per month, while tuition for high school can range from $600 to $4,000 per month.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Bali

"The cost of living in Bali, is relatively low compared to many Western countries. Accommodation can be found at affordable prices, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury villas. Eating out at local restaurants or street food stalls is inexpensive, while Western-style restaurants and bars tend to be more costly. Groceries and fresh produce from local markets are also reasonably priced. Transportation, such as scooter rentals and taxis, is generally affordable, and public transportation is even cheaper. Healthcare services are available at lower costs than in many Western countries, but the quality of care may vary. Overall, Bali offers a comfortable lifestyle at a lower cost for those who are willing to adapt to the local culture and customs," said one expat living in Bali.

Can I live in Bali on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Bali for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices and be smart about your choices. First, you'll want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud, as these areas cater more to tourists and expats and have higher prices for accommodations and dining.Instead, consider looking for a place to live in more affordable neighborhoods like Denpasar, Sanur, or even some parts of Gianyar. You can find a decent one-bedroom apartment or house for around $300 to $500 a month, depending on the location and amenities. Keep in mind that you might have to compromise on some modern amenities like a western-style kitchen or a swimming pool, but you'll still be able to find a comfortable place to live.For transportation, consider renting a scooter instead of a car, as it's much more affordable and convenient for getting around the island. You can rent a scooter for around $50 to $70 a month, and gas is relatively cheap.When it comes to dining, eating at local warungs (small, family-owned restaurants) will save you a lot of money compared to eating at more touristy restaurants. You can get a delicious meal for around $1 to $3 at a warung, while a meal at a more upscale restaurant can easily cost you $10 or more. Cooking at home can also help you save money, especially if you shop at local markets for fresh produce and ingredients.Entertainment and activities can also be done on a budget. There are plenty of free or low-cost things to do in Bali, like visiting temples, exploring rice terraces, or going to the beach. If you're into yoga or fitness, you can find affordable classes or even join community classes for free.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Bali is possible if you're willing to make some sacrifices and be smart about your choices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, eating at local warungs, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can enjoy a fulfilling life in Bali without breaking the bank," commented an expat living in Bali.

Can I live in Bali on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Bali for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even with modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices to make it work. For example, you might not be able to live in the most luxurious villa or dine out at high-end restaurants every night. But overall, you can still enjoy a good quality of life.When it comes to choosing a neighborhood, I'd recommend looking into areas like Seminyak, Canggu, or Ubud. These areas are popular among expats and offer a good mix of local and international amenities. You can find affordable housing options, ranging from small apartments to larger villas, depending on your budget and preferences. In Seminyak, you can find a decent one-bedroom apartment for around $500-$700 per month, while in Canggu and Ubud, you might be able to find something even cheaper.On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like Nusa Dua or Jimbaran, as these areas are known for their luxury resorts and can be quite expensive. Living in these areas might not be feasible on a $3,000 a month budget.In terms of other expenses, eating local food can be very affordable, with meals costing as little as $1-$3 at local warungs (small restaurants). However, if you prefer to eat at more upscale restaurants or international chains, you'll need to budget more for food. Groceries can also be quite affordable, especially if you shop at local markets.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable option for getting around Bali, with monthly rentals costing around $50-$70. If you prefer to use taxis or ride-sharing services, they're also relatively inexpensive, but the costs can add up if you use them frequently.In summary, living in Bali on a $3,000 a month budget is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your expenses and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, eating local food, and using cost-effective transportation options, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while still experiencing the beauty and culture of Bali," said one expat living in Bali.

Can I live in Bali on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Bali for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even with modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud, as these areas cater more to tourists and expats, and the cost of living is significantly higher. Instead, consider looking for a place to live in more affordable neighborhoods like Sanur, Denpasar, or even some parts of Jimbaran. These areas still have access to modern amenities, but the cost of living is much more reasonable.One of the sacrifices you might have to make is living in a smaller or more modest home. While you can still find beautiful villas and apartments in these areas, they might not be as luxurious or spacious as the ones in the more expensive neighborhoods. However, you can still find comfortable and well-maintained homes that will suit your needs.Another thing to consider is transportation. While it's relatively cheap to rent a scooter or motorbike in Bali, you might have to sacrifice the convenience of having a car. Traffic can be quite congested in some areas, and parking can be a challenge. However, using a scooter or motorbike is a great way to get around the island and explore different areas.When it comes to dining out, you might have to be more selective about where you eat. While there are plenty of high-end restaurants in Bali, they can be quite expensive. Instead, try to explore the local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) and street food vendors, where you can find delicious and affordable meals.Lastly, you might have to be more mindful of your overall spending habits. While $5,000 a month is a comfortable budget for living in Bali, it's still important to keep track of your expenses and make sure you're not overspending on unnecessary items or activities.Overall, living in Bali on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, and you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with modern amenities. Just be prepared to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending habits to ensure you stay within your budget," commented an expat living in Bali.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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Ubud on Bali Island, Indonesia

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