Bali continues to attract digital nomads, retirees, and remote workers for good reason: breathtaking views, a welcoming culture, and an overall lower cost of living compared to western countries. While it’s easy to enjoy a good life here, knowing what to expect in terms of expenses is key. In 2025, the average monthly cost of living in Bali for a single person can range between $600 and $2,000 depending on lifestyle, location, and choices.
Planning to move or stay long-term in Bali? Here is a full breakdown of the 2025 cost of living in Bali from accommodation and food to healthcare, transport, education, and visas. This is the major cost categories so you can plan effectively for your move or extended stay.
Read also: Best Places to Stay in Bali: A Guide for Every Traveler
1. Accommodation
Housing is your biggest expense, but the good news is Bali has options for every budget. Budget travelers or minimalist nomads can find local-style rooms or guesthouses for as little as $200 to $350 per month in non-touristy areas like Gianyar or Singaraja. In areas like Canggu, Ubud, or Sanur, mid-range monthly rentals for fully furnished one-bedroom villas or apartments range from $500 to $1,000. Luxurious villas with private pools, gardens, and staff in Seminyak, Uluwatu, or Berawa start at around $1,500 and can go well beyond $3,000 per month. Long-term rentals often include internet, basic utilities, and cleaning, but always confirm these when signing a lease.
2. Food and Groceries
One of Bali’s biggest advantages is its affordable and diverse food scene. A meal at a local warung (small eatery) can cost just $1 – $3 and often includes rice, vegetables, and protein. Western-style cafes, restaurants, or beach clubs offer international meals between $5 and $15. If you prefer cooking at home, local produce is cheap. Fruits, vegetables, rice, and chicken can be bought for a fraction of supermarket prices. However, imported products such as cheese, wine, or foreign snacks can inflate your grocery bill. A reasonable monthly food budget ranges from $150 for simple eating to $500+ for a mix of dining out and imported goods.
3. Transportation
Getting around in Bali is relatively inexpensive. The most common form of transport is a scooter, which you can rent for $50 – $80 per month. Fuel is about $2 per full tank. There are transportation apps also widely available in Bali like Gojek and Grab, offering cheap, convenient rides expect to pay $1 – $3 for short trips and up to $10 for longer drives. However, you can only order Gojek or Grab in a city area. They won’t be available in the remote area. For families or those who don’t ride scooters, hiring a private driver can cost around $400 – $600 monthly. If you plan on driving yourself, an international driving permit and knowledge of local road rules are essential due to Bali’s unique traffic culture.
4. Visas
Visa costs vary by the length and purpose of your stay. The most basic option is the Visa on Arrival (VoA), available for many nationalities at $35, valid for 30 days and extendable once. For stays up to 6 months, many use the B211A visa, which costs approximately $300 – $500 with the help of an agent. For long-term stays, the KITAS visa is the most comprehensive, used for retirement, investment, or employment, and starts at $800 annually. Indonesia recently introduced new options like the digital nomad visa (E33G), allowing remote workers to stay for up to a year, though additional income proof and sponsorship may be required.
Read more: Bali Entry Visa Guide: Types, How to Apply, and Estimated Costs (2025 Update)
5. Utilities and Internet
Utility costs depend heavily on your accommodation type. Smaller apartments may only incur about $50 monthly for electricity, water, and gas, while larger villas with pools and AC usage can reach $150 – $250 per month. Internet is generally included in rental prices, but if not, a fiber optic home connection will cost around $30 – $60 per month. Mobile data packages from providers like Telkomsel and XL offer 20 – 30GB for as low as $10, keeping you connected on the go. Coworking spaces like BWork and Outpost offer flexible memberships starting at $60/month, useful for those needing professional workspaces.
6. Medical Care
Healthcare in Bali is good for minor treatments and checkups, especially in international clinics in areas like Kuta, Sanur, and Canggu. A basic doctor visit can cost between $15 and $40, while a visit to a specialist or dental cleaning can be $40 – $100. It’s strongly recommended to have international health insurance if you plan to live in Bali long-term. Plans from providers like SafetyWing or Cigna can start at $40 per month and go up to $100 or more for full coverage. Emergency procedures or hospitalizations in Bali’s best private hospitals can be costly without coverage, so plan accordingly.
7. Education
If you’re moving with kids, Bali offers a range of international schools. Institutions like Green School, Canggu Community School, or Bali Island School provide western-style curricula with tuition ranging from $5,000 to over $15,000 per year depending on the level. Local schools are significantly cheaper, but most expats prefer international ones due to language and curriculum differences. Universities such as Udayana University or the Bali Institute of Tourism also welcome international students and offer reasonably priced programs in hospitality, tourism, and business.
8. Entertainment and Fitness
From sunrise yoga in Ubud to surfing in Uluwatu, Bali has endless options to stay active and entertained. Yoga classes cost $6 – $12 per session or about $50 – $100 for monthly passes. Gym memberships start around $30 per month at basic gyms and climb to $80 or more at full-service facilities. Movie tickets at modern cinemas cost $3–$5, and entrance to beach clubs or attractions ranges from $5 to $20. Bali also hosts festivals like the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival or Bali Spirit Festival, which may add to your entertainment budget but enrich your experience significantly.
9. Taxes
If you work remotely or earn income in Bali, it’s crucial to understand Indonesian tax laws. Indonesia taxes worldwide income for those classified as tax residents, typically those staying over 183 days per year. Digital nomads using tourist or social visas may not be taxed locally, but this is a grey area that’s evolving with new visa types. Consulting with a tax advisor is highly recommended to avoid penalties. If you buy property or run a business, expect to pay property tax, capital gains tax, and potentially corporate income tax if registered as a local entity.
Is Bali Still a Budget-Friendly Place to Live in 2025?
Living in Bali can be very affordable or moderately expensive depending on your preferences. For budget-conscious individuals, $800 – $1,000 a month covers basic needs, while a more comfortable lifestyle typically ranges between $1,500 – $2,500 per month. Bali offers a rare combination of affordability, beauty, and lifestyle that few places can match. With careful budgeting and a bit of local know-how, you can enjoy everything the island has to offer without breaking the bank.
