More than ever before, digital nomads opt for living in Bali because the island really has it all. It’s cheap, its natural beauty is unmatched, it has a rich cultural heritage, people are very friendly, and there’s a vibrant expat community. On top of that, from the bustling streets of Seminyak to the serene villages of Ubud, Bali offers a diverse range of living environments to suit various lifestyles. It doesn’t matter if you seek a peaceful retreat or a dynamic urban setting, chances are, Bali will still have just the place for you.
This guide aims to provide everything you need to know about living in Bali, so if you’re considering making Bali your new home, keep reading.
Why Choose Bali As Your Home?
There are many good reasons why people choose Bali as their home but here are a few for starters.
Climate & Natural Beauty: The island has pleasant weather that allows for outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle throughout the year. Also, you don’t have to worry about it being too cold so you can explore Bali’s breathtaking natural beauty whenever you want.
Spiritual Retreat: Bali is often seen as a spiritual haven with numerous yoga and meditation retreats, and wellness centers.
Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to many Western countries, Bali offers a relatively affordable cost of living.
Welcoming Expat Community: Bali has a thriving expat community and a multicultural environment that you can’t find everywhere.
Delicious Cuisine: I don’t need to say much more about Bali’s thriving food scene.
Business and Entrepreneurship Opportunities: It’s not Dubai, but Bali has become a hub for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and remote workers, meaning you can also do some networking if you choose Bali as your new home.
Cons Of Living In Bali
While Bali offers a vibrant and idyllic lifestyle, there are some potential drawbacks and challenges to consider when living in the region. Here are some cons of living in Bali:
Infrastructure: Bali’s infrastructure is limited. You might face traffic, a lack of public transport, power outages, and waste management issues.
Cost of Living: While Bali can be affordable compared to many Western countries, the cost of living has been increasing; yes, it’s a worldwide trend, but it deserves a mention.
Employment Opportunities and Income: Finding stable and well-paying employment is almost impossible for non-Balinese speakers so if you want to live here, you already need to have your remote work setup.
Healthcare: Bali has healthcare facilities, but quality and availability vary. For serious medical needs, people often go to nearby countries with more advanced medical infrastructure.
Environmental Concerns: Bali is facing big environmental problems like waste, water issues, and pollution. Efforts to solve these are ongoing. But, people living there might face problems and health risks because of these issues.
Helpful Resources For Visiting Bali
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For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Bali, I recommend GetYourGuide– just use code 3P78-5VJQ-K7NF to get 20% off on all tours in Bali.
If you’re searching for excellent deals on accommodations, you can save 15% on all bookings in Bali by visiting this link.
To save on transportation within Bali, including bus, train, or ferry rides, utilize 12goasia and take advantage of savings up to 15%. For more detailed information, you can check out our review.
For car rentals in Bali, make use of my Auto Europe offer and receive up to 10% off on all rentals in town. You can find more information in our Auto Europe review.
If you require a visa for your trip to Indonesia, consider checking out iVisa. They are a company that can assist you in obtaining a visa for any destination worldwide for a small fee. For more information, refer to our honest iVisa review.
Lastly, don’t forget about travel insurance. SafetyWing offers competitive packages for travelers and digital nomads. Their coverage is relatively decent, protecting you not only in the event of medical emergencies but also various travel-related mishaps such as delayed flights or lost luggage. Compared to other providers like SafetyWing, SafetyWing’s packages are relatively cheaper.
Planning Your Move
Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when planning your move:
Visa Requirements
You need to figure out all of the details for your visa for the amount of time you intend to stay in Bali. Up until a few years ago, Bali was visa-free for visitors from most countries, but since recently, things have changed, and many countries that didn’t need a visa before need one now. You can easily apply for a 3-month visa, extend it a few times, and get a temporary residence permit afterward.
Finding Accommodation
Here are some of the top areas for living in Bali that expats usually choose for one reason or another.
Seminyak: a popular choice for expats who like to be close to the main happenings and to the beach.
Ubud: perfect for expats looking to stay in a serene and spiritual environment away from the noise.
Canggu: another coastal area known for its surfer vibes, trendy cafes, and beach clubs.
Sanur: a quieter coastal area on the eastern side of Bali, perfect for expats with families.
Jimbaran: home to some of the most beautiful beaches and most stunning sunsets on the island, and plenty of nice villas to choose from.
Nusa Dua: a luxurious neighborhood dotted with beautiful, pristine beaches and gated (secure) neighborhoods.
Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our guide to choosing a backpacking route in Southeast Asia.
Cost Of Living In Bali
Accommodation: Prices vary by location and property type. In areas like Seminyak or Canggu, expect to pay $400 to $1,500 for a one-bedroom. Larger properties cost more, up to $3,000 monthly. Long-term rentals are often cheaper.
Utilities: Costs depend on usage and location. Monthly bills are $50 to $150, but can rise with air conditioning use. Food and Dining: Bali has many dining options for all budgets. Local warungs offer meals for $2 to $5. Mid-range restaurants cost $10 to $20 per meal. Western and high-end places can be pricier, with meals over $20.
Transportation: Bali’s transport costs vary by transportation method. A motorbike costs $50 to $100 monthly. Car rentals with a driver are $500 to $1,000 monthly. Taxis and ride-hailing start at $2 for short trips.
Leisure and Entertainment: For starters, Bali’s natural beauty is free, but if you’re looking for activities like yoga, gym memberships, and wellness treatments cost $30 to $100 monthly.
Healthcare And Insurance
Having health insurance is important when living anywhere and Bali is no exception. Premiums here are $50 to $200 monthly, but can change a lot. SafetyWing’s insurance for digital nomads starts at $40 monthly and is specifically designed for digital nomads and remote workers. For more info, see our SafetyWing honest review.
Settling In
Seeing that most expats living in Bali have a pleasant experience living on the island but you should still have a few things in mind when it comes to settling in.
Culture And Etiquette
As an expat living in Bali, you should learn and understand a few things about local culture and here are a few starting points.
Religion: The majority of Balinese people practice Balinese Hinduism, slightly different than the traditional one, it’s a like a mix of Hinduism, Buddhism, and local animist beliefs.
Balinese Hierarchy: Respecting the elderly, the profound community members, and the concept of “Tri Hita Karana” (the harmony between humans, nature, and the divine) is key.
Politeness and Etiquette: Balinese people value politeness and courteous behavior so try to always greet them with the word “Selamat”.
Dress Code: While Bali isn’t a conservative place, when visiting temples or attending religious ceremonies, cover your shoulders and legs (both men and women).
Opening A Bank Account
The largest banks in Bali include Bank Central Asia (BCA), Bank Mandiri, and CIMB Niaga. To open a bank account in Bali, you will typically need to provide certain documents, like your passport (with valid visa or residency permit), a proof of address (such as a rental agreement or utility bill), and a Tax Identification Number (NPWP) if you plan to conduct business transactions.
Most banks in Indonesia also require an initial deposit to open an account, and don’t forget to inquire about the fees and charges associated with the bank account, such as monthly maintenance fees, ATM withdrawal fees, transfer fees, and minimum balance requirements to avoid additional charges.
Getting a SIM Card and Internet Access
Bali has several major service providers- Telkomsel, Indosat Ooredoo, XL Axiata, and Three (Tri) and SIM cards are widely available in convenience stores, mobile phone shops, and official service provider outlets across the island. You need to present your passport when purchasing a SIM card as local laws require all SIM cards to be registered. Once everything is done, you usually need to wait a few hours for your sim card to be activated.
Daily Life In Bali
As dreamy as living in Bali may sound, there are a few things you should be aware of before moving.
Climate And Weather
Bali enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year so you don’t need to pack any of your winter clothes.
Food And Dining
Some typical traditional Balinese dishes include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay, Lawar (mixed vegetables with minced meat), and Babi Guling (roast suckling pig).
Shopping And Markets
From traditional art markets in Ubud to upscale boutiques in Seminyak, you can find a wide range of clothing, artwork, handicrafts, and souvenirs, and these local markets are also great for purchasing fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.
Entertainment And Nightlife
Bali has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in areas like Seminyak and Kuta, with numerous bars, clubs, live music venues, and beach clubs to choose from, and more often than not, you’re likely to find other expats there too.
Working And Doing Business in Bali
Here are a few aspects to keep in consideration about doing business in Bali.
Starting A Business
If you ask me, I’d rather have my business registered elsewhere than Bali, but you can get certain benefits by registering it here, especially if you want to permanently settle there. The first step is to determine the most suitable business structure, and the options for foreigners living in Bali include a Foreign-Owned Limited Liability Company (PT PMA) or a Local Nominee Company.
You’ll need a lawyer, and make sure it’s a reputable one who specializes in assisting foreigners with business setup. Last but not least, make sure you understand the tax obligations for your business in Bali. This includes registering for a Tax Identification Number (NPWP), filing regular tax reports, and paying applicable taxes.
Taxes And Legal Considerations
Expats who live in Bali for more than 183 days in a calendar year are considered tax residents and are subject to local tax regulations. However, unless you’re a resident, you’d be only taxed on your Indonesian-sourced income. If you are a resident, though, you are subject to personal income tax worldwide that ranges between 5% and 30%.
Exploring Bali
Wake up to roosters. Not an alarm clock. The air is thick, humid, alive. A scooter hums past. Someone’s offering incense at the doorstep. Welcome to Bali.
As an expat, you move through layers. Tourist spots? Too easy. Dig deeper. Warungs with smoky satay. Rice fields stretching like a green ocean. Hidden beaches where the sand sticks softer.
Ubud whispers with jungle calm. Digital nomads tapping away in bamboo cafés. Yoga, cacao, breathwork—choose your version of enlightenment. Or skip it. Just sip Balinese coffee and watch the rain roll in.
Canggu pulses. Surfboards, tattoos, late-night beats. The smell of fresh coconut mingles with two-stroke fumes. Everyone’s building something—business, brand, body. Hustle meets hedonism.
Then there’s the quiet. Sidemen, Amed, Munduk. The Bali that breathes slower. Fishermen push wooden boats into the dawn. Temples sit untouched. Time bends.
Safety And Security
Bali feels easy. Warm smiles, open roads, sunsets that melt stress. But don’t get careless. Scooters rule the streets. No helmet? Bad idea. Road rules? More like road instincts. Stay sharp. Scams happen. Overpriced taxis, fake rental fines, “friendly” strangers with agendas. Trust, but verify. Nature bites. Mosquitoes, stray dogs, strong currents. Respect the island, and it’ll respect you. Drink smart. Some bars mix methanol into cheap liquor. Stick to sealed bottles or trusted spots. Bali welcomes. But it’s not Disneyland. Stay aware, stay humble, and you’ll be just fine.
Cultural Sensitivity
Bali isn’t just beaches and Bintangs. It’s tradition, faith, and unspoken rules. Respect goes a long way. Dress right. Temples aren’t for bikinis. A sarong isn’t optional. Cover up, show respect. Don’t step on offerings. Those little flower baskets? Sacred. Walk around, not over. Right hand only. Giving, receiving, even pointing—left hand’s a no-go. Basic manners. Patience matters. Things move slower. No need to rush, raise your voice, or demand. Flow with it. Bali gives what you give. Honor its customs, and you’ll feel the island’s heart.
Tips For Fitting In
Last but not least, we round up this guide to living in Bali with a few useful tips that will help you fit in right away.
Embracing Local Culture
Bali isn’t just a place to live—it’s a world to step into. Stay long enough, and you’ll feel the pull.
Learn a little Bahasa. Even a few words—terima kasih, selamat pagi—break barriers. Locals appreciate the effort.
Join ceremonies. A temple procession, a full moon offering—watch, listen, respect. If invited, go. It’s an honor.
Support local. Eat at warungs, buy from artisans, hire Balinese staff. Tourism sustains, but fair exchange builds trust.
Give back. Beach cleanups, stray dog rescues, community projects. Bali gives a lot—return the favor.
Live here, don’t just stay here. Connect, contribute, and Bali will open up in ways most never see.
Respecting The Environment And Local Community
Bali’s beauty isn’t just for show—it’s a responsibility. Treat it right, or it fades.
Plastic is a problem. Skip the straws, bring a reusable bottle, say no to single-use bags. Small choices add up.
Respect nature. Don’t touch coral, don’t chase sea turtles, don’t carve your name into rice terraces. Look, don’t harm.
Waste wisely. Bali’s trash system struggles. Separate recyclables, compost if you can, and don’t litter—ever.
Water is gold. Long showers, pool overflows, careless waste—it all drains an island with a limited supply. Use mindfully.
Love Bali? Prove it. Leave it better than you found it.
Are you thinking about living in Bali? How did you like our guide to life in Bali? Was it helpful? Do you think there are some other important aspects about life in Bali we didn’t address in this article? Feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments below.
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