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Cost of Living in Bali: A Realistic Monthly Budget

What it really costs to live in Bali — housing, food, transport, healthcare and the extras people forget — so you can plan a monthly budget that fits your lifestyle.

Kibarer Editorial4 min read

What does it cost to live in Bali?

Costs vary a lot by area and lifestyle. These are the four categories that shape most monthly budgets.

Housing and rent

Villa or apartment, long-term or monthly. Usually your biggest cost and the one that varies most by area.

Food and dining

From local warungs to beach clubs — everyday spending ranges widely depending on how often you eat out.

Transport

Most residents rent or buy a scooter or car. Traffic and distance between areas affect daily costs.

Healthcare and insurance

Private clinics and international insurance are the norm for expats. Plan your cover before you arrive.

Planning your monthly budget

Use this worksheet to build a monthly budget. Fill in your own estimates once you know your area and lifestyle.

  1. 1

    Choose your area

    Canggu, Ubud, Sanur and the Bukit each have a different price level and lifestyle — pick the one that fits you.
  2. 2

    Decide on housing

    Compare renting a villa with buying or leasing long term. Our team can show you both options side by side.
  3. 3

    Add the everyday costs

    Add food, transport, healthcare, utilities and leisure to get a realistic monthly number.
CategoryWhat to considerYour estimate
HousingRent or lease, deposit, furnishing—
Food and diningGroceries, warungs, cafés, delivery—
TransportScooter or car, fuel, drivers—
Healthcare and insuranceCover, clinic visits, medication—
Utilities and internetElectricity, water, staff, internet—
Leisure and extrasGym, travel, subscriptions—

Prices change with season, area and exchange rate. Price each category for your own plans.

Housing and rent

Housing is usually your biggest cost and the one that varies most by area. Your options depend on how long you plan to stay.

Monthly rental

Flexible and easy to start, usually the highest price per month.

Long-term rental

Commit for a year or more for a lower monthly rate.

Leasehold

Pay upfront for a fixed number of years, often cheaper per year than renting.

Buying

A bigger commitment — see our ownership guides before you decide.

Canggu, Ubud, Sanur and the Bukit each have a different price level and lifestyle.

Food and everyday costs

Everyday spending ranges widely depending on how often you eat out and where you shop.

Local warungs

Simple, filling meals at everyday prices.

Cafés and restaurants

Prices vary widely by area and style.

Groceries and markets

Local markets are cheaper than imported-goods supermarkets.

Delivery

Convenient, but adds fees — worth budgeting for.

Transport and getting around

Most residents rent or buy a scooter or car. Traffic and distance between areas affect your daily costs.

Scooter

The most common way to get around. Budget for fuel, servicing and insurance.

Car

More comfortable for families, but slower in traffic and costlier to run.

Drivers and ride-hailing

Useful for airport runs and evenings out; costs add up with frequent use.

FAQ

Is Bali cheap to live in?

It can be, but it depends on your area, housing and lifestyle.

What is the biggest cost?

Usually housing, followed by transport and dining out.

Do I need insurance?

Most expats choose private health insurance — plan your cover before you arrive.

Can I budget before I arrive?

Yes — use the worksheet and price each category for your area.

Thinking of moving to Bali?

Talk to our team about renting or buying a home that fits your budget.

Book a free consultation

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