Bali has been a favored location for tourists, digital nomads, and expatriates for its picturesque environment, lively culture, and inviting community. The cost of living in Bali can vary significantly depending on whether you’re visiting for a short stay or planning a long-term relocation, influenced by your lifestyle and financial choices. In reality, Bali can be as affordable or pricey as you choose it to be.
This guide simplifies budgeting for living expenses in Bali, covering key preparations and offering practical tips to help you plan your monthly travel budget efficiently. Most importantly, you’ll find practical tips to reduce costs while taking pleasure in all that the island has to offer. By planning ahead, you can enjoy Bali’s beauty and culture without going over your budget.
Currency Equivalents: What is the Bali currency?
Knowing the local currency of your travel destination is an important consideration to make before planning a trip. Knowledge on how the local currency—IDR, in this instance—converts to your home currency will provide you with a better insight of your living costs allowing you wiser budgeting all in all.
The currency rates change daily, so it would be best to keep updated on the foreign exchange market to get the most precise conversion possible while organizing your finances. Based on the current market rates, this is how your currency will do against the Indonesian Rupiah:
Current Exchange Rates (Approx.):
- 1 USD = 15,800 IDR
- 1 AUD = 10,300 IDR
- 1 EUR = 16,700 IDR
- 1 GBP = 20,000 IDR
These rates serve as a general reference, but one must be very mindful as these might go up or down depending on market conditions. Therefore, before making any significant transactions, you must familiarize the current exchange rate for a guaranteed fair deal.
Moving to Bali: Initial Costs and Tips
Relocating to Bali incurs several initial costs including flight tickets, visa charges, and a basic understanding of Indonesia’s visa regulations, especially for foreigners. Here’s a summary to help you get started with the basics:
Flights
The cost of air tickets depends on your home country and the time or season when you plan to travel. One-way flights to Bali from the USA or Europe typically cost between $500 and $1200 USD.
Pro tip: You can save some money by traveling during the off-season, which is November to March, or by taking a budget airline.
Visa Options
- Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival): Ranges from IDR 500,000 to 800,000 or $32 to $50 USD; this visa can be extended once for an additional 30 days.
- Social-Cultural Visa (B211A): Valid for a maximum of 6 months with extensions renewed monthly. Application and renewals for this type of visa is at around IDR 6–10 million or $400–650 USD.
- KITAS (Temporary Stay Visa): For foreigners who are employed, retired, or engaged in business activities in Indonesia (Bali).
- Work KITAS: This is granted to foreign nationals living in the country and working for an Indonesian company. The application fee, payable annually, is at around IDR 10–15 million or USD $650–1,000.
- Retirement KITAS: Especially available for expats aged 60 and over who wish to retire in the country, this type of visa costs roughly IDR 8–10 million (USD 520–650) per year. Note that the holder must also be financially ready with bank and assets statements prior and during their stay in Bali.
- Remote Worker KITAS: Ideal for those digital nomads who want to live and work in Bali (Indonesia) while being employed by an outsider company. Cost for this visa is usually at IDR 12,300,000 or $750–$800 USD.
- Investor KITAS: Perfect for those who plan to or have already invested in an Indonesian business or property and want to move to the country to manage it. Approximate cost for this visa is at around IDR 20,000,000 ($1250).
Tax Implications for Expats Living in Bali
Once settled in Bali, it is also beneficial to familiarize yourself with Indonesia’s tax system to avoid unforeseen tax issues and ensure strict compliance to specific regulations.
- Tax Residency: Individuals who have been to Indonesia for at least 183 days are subject to progressive income taxes. Depending on an individual’s income bracket, the tax rate typically ranges from about 5% to 35%.
- Foreign Income Tax: For digital nomads and expats, income from abroad may be taxed when there is no Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) between your home country and Indonesia. Note: A DTA would mean that the same income would be taxed in two countries.
- Business Taxation: Expats running businesses in Bali must also file a legal entity and comply with corporate tax laws. The standard corporate tax rate is 22%.
- Other Taxes: Property leases or business setups may incur additional taxes.
Bali Housing Costs in 2025
Perhaps the most crucial budgeting variable for any travel is housing. The accommodation costs in Bali greatly vary based on the location, the type of accommodation, and available amenities. Here’s some of Bali’s housing options, costs, and locations for your needs and way of life:
- Ubud: This is a good location for those who appreciate culturally vibrant surroundings. Here, guest houses start at $300 monthly, while luxury villas can cost up to $1,500 per month.
- Seminyak: For people who enjoy close proximity to beach nightlife, housing starts at $600 and can go up to $2,500 a month, depending on your accessibility to the beach and other entertainment spots.
- Canggu: Appeals mostly to people who are looking to stay active while still having time for leisure. Rental costs in this area vary from $400 to $2000 per month depending on whether you are having co-living arrangements or solo living.
- Kuta: This location features vibrant nightlife and various water sport activities, drawing in many young individuals and entertainment-seekers. Note that Kuta is quite densely populated and popular than any other Bali locations, so accommodations are typically higher starting from $300 for co-living spaces to $1,800 for a decent villa per month.
In comparison to housing prices in expensive cities, the accommodation costs in Bali in 2025 appear to be significantly more affordable, making it an attractive place for expats, digital nomads, and travelers seeking an improved quality of life at a reduced expense.
Bali Housing Costs and Options: Renting or Leasing?
Finding the perfect place to stay in Bali depends on how long you plan to stay, what you wish to experience during the trip–basically your itinerary–and most importantly, your lifestyle choices. If you intend to visit the island just for a vacation or are a full-time digital nomad looking to settle into longer term rentals, you must be aware of your different options and must be able to handpick the most ideal one for yourself.
Short-term Stays
Short stay services cater to tourists and digital nomads who are testing out their choice of housing location, or anyone who is not yet ready to commit to a long-term arrangement. The services are perfect if you like to try out different Bali areas first or are an adrenaline junkie who wants freedom to roam the island without being tied to a single location.
Available options are hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals. The average range of prices per night is between IDR 300,000 to IDR 1 million (USD $20–65). Note that peak periods will make the average daily rental to go high depending on the demands of the market. So, short-term accommodations, though convenient and flexible, can be very costly depending on the duration and seasonal peak.
Long-term Rentals
For those expats and digital nomads who wish to stay in Bali for at least a month, the value and comfort of long-term rentals cannot be rivaled. Long-term rental services offer a level of cost-effectiveness that daily, short-term rentals may not come with and can range from small, cozy apartments to luxurious villas with private pools and balconies, catering to anyone’s lifestyle preferences.
Monthly allocated budget for long-term rentals should be around IDR 4,400,000 million and IDR 8,500,000 million (USD $275–540). If the location is within popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, and Kuta, the prices will fall at the upper end due to the location, which is highly prized with access to high-end amenities and exclusive island experience.
Another reason why long-term rentals are a good choice is that one can bargain for cheaper rates, especially if they are going to lease it for an extended period.
Property Ownership in Bali
If your stay is more long-term as in years or you plan to make Bali your go-to travel destination every year, then the thought of buying a property will look more attractive for you. Still, the laws regarding foreigners’ property ownership in Indonesia are strict. Specifically, expats are not allowed to directly purchase freehold property; they are only allowed to lease up to 30 years, with possible extension. So if you are considering going with this choice, it is better to study Indonesian laws for property ownership or better yet, consult a lawyer and a real estate agent before making your move.
Making the Right Decision
Bali’s accommodation market has room for every lifestyle and budget. Based on the latest Bali housing costs update in 2025, long-term rentals provide security and cost-effectiveness for prolonged stay, whereas short-term options come with unmatched flexibility. There is also a long-term leasing option available for individuals planning to stay in Bali for longer periods or have multiple visits without the hassle of navigating renting and leasing options repeatedly. More importantly, the location also bears a significant influence in your housing budget as accommodation costs in sought-after areas are notably much pricier than in other areas.
Ultimately, knowing your priorities, length of your stay, and travel budget will help you pick the best place to call home as you explore Bali.
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Scooters and Motorbikes
Scooters are the most common mode of transportation to get around Bali allowing for flexible and cost-effective travel. They are especially ideal for navigating the island’s narrow streets, bypassing traffic, and going to places that larger vehicles could not access.
For travelers, renting a scooter is an economical choice. Daily rental costs range from IDR 50,000–70,000 ($3 to $5), while long-term rentals for a month typically cost between IDR 600,00–900,000 ($40 to $60). Fuel costs are also remarkably affordable with the gasoline priced at about IDR 10,000–15,000 ($0.65 to $1) per liter.
Ride-Sharing Apps
Applications like Gojek and Grab are also commonly accessible in Bali. These platforms cater to various transportation needs, including motorbike taxis, car rides, and even food delivery services, making them a convenient option for both locals and tourists.
Short trip motorbike taxi bookings made from Gojek and Grab are usually very cheap, with fares ranging between IDR 10,000–30,000 ($0.6 to $2), depending on the distance. Nonetheless, if you prefer to be more comfortable, your most reliable option would be the Grab car rides, although they can be relatively expensive. In primary tourist regions, fares generally range from IDR 50,000–150,000 ($3 to $10) and may increase if bookings are made during peak hours.
Pro tip: You may cut down on using ride-sharing apps if you like to reduce your monthly expenses during your stay in Bali.
Taxis
You can also ride a cab if you do not have time for waiting and have enough travel funds allocated for transportation. Unlike Grab and Gojek rides, taxis can take you from any location to any destination, and they operate on meter, ensuring justifiable and transparent fare prices. Yet, be cautious with unlicensed ones because they might overcharge you more than the regular fare.
Short taxi rides in cities range from IDR 30,000 to 50,000 ($2 to $3), whereas longer trips fall between IDR 300,000 and 400,000 ($20 to $26).
Car Rentals or Hire a Car with a Driver
For long trips or group travel, renting a car is a practical choice. Many rental companies provide self-drive choices or the “car with a driver” package to renters for extra convenience. Self-drive rentals usually range from IDR 200,000 to 500,000 (around $13 to $33) per day, not including fuel costs. If you prefer a car with a driver, expect to pay between IDR 600,000 and 1,000,000 (about $40 to $65) daily. So, if you plan to use this service, you should budget at least IDR 15,000,000 more for your monthly travel expenses.
Public Transport: Bemos and Buses
Public transportation in Bali is not as accessible or as reliable as other transport options in this list, yet it can be suitable for travelers with tight travel budgets.
You can ride a bemo, which is Bali’s shared minivan used for short trips. They are especially abundant in busy towns and are generally inexpensive, with fares ranging between IDR 5,000–20,000 ($0.35 to $1.30) per ride. However, their routes rarely reach beyond neighboring towns.
For travels between cities, tourist buses are a preferable choice. These buses link sought-after locations, with ticket prices usually falling between IDR 50,000–150,000 ($3 to $10), depending on the distance. While not as fast as taxis or personal cars, they offer an economical option for transportation among budget travelers.
Bicycles
An excellent substitute for the choices mentioned above is biking. It is specifically great for anyone who wants to be more green-conscious as you can enjoy the island’s magnificent views while having your carbon footprint on close watch. Biking through the island is also economical as the rents are affordable: daily rate is between IDR 30,000 and IDR 50,000 ($2 and $3), and the monthly rent is at IDR 300,000 ($20).
Eating Out and Grocery Shopping in Bali: Options and Expected Monthly Expenses
Bali’s food scene is as eclectic as its culture, offering everything from local street food to upscale dining experiences. Whether you enjoy tasting authentic Indonesian cuisine or favor familiar foods, there’s something to match every palate and travel budget.
Dining Out in Bali
Dining in Bali is not as expensive as in other places. Here’s a look at some of the dining choices available:
- Street Food: Street food is the best option for those looking to try Bali’s authentic flavors but still trying to keep track of their travel expenditure. You can usually find tasty yet filling dishes like Soto Ayam (chicken soup) and Nasi Goreng (fried rice) almost everywhere for as little as IDR 15,000–20,000 ($1 to $1.40).
- Warungs: Another great option is eating at warungs, a small family-owned eatery that serves a range of ready-to-eat dishes. You can select your meal and pay based on your choice, with prices ranging from IDR 20,000–40,000 ($1.40 to $2.50).
- Casual restaurants and Fast Food Chains: If you prefer a familiar and convenient dining experience that won’t mess up your monthly budget allotted for food, casual restaurants and fast food chains like McDonald’s are easy to find in Bali. Foods served in these places usually range from IDR 50,000 to 65,000 ($3 to $4.15).
- Western-style Restaurants: If you’re in the mood for international cuisine such as pasta and burgers, Western-style restaurants are the perfect place to be. Expect to pay around at least IDR 100,000 ($6) per meal though.
- Fine Dining: If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply just want to experience a more refined dining experience, Bali has no shortage of fine dining restaurants. Here, food prices typically start at IDR 200,000 ($13) per person and can be higher, depending on the menu and setting.
Grocery Shopping in Bali
For long-term stays, grocery shopping is the most cost-effective option. Bali has a range of shopping options, from convenience stores like Indomaret and Alfamart, perfect for quick snacks and essentials, to local supermarkets like Tiara Gatsu, where you can find affordable fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples for home-cooked meals. You can also grab imported goods in Western-style supermarkets like Pepito and Bintang Supermarkets although at higher prices.
Lifestyle and Fitness: Options and Costs
Bali provides a variety of fitness and leisure activities to accommodate every budget. For expats wanting to remain active without breaking their allocated monthly funds, activities such as hiking, surfing, and beach yoga are common and usually free, particularly in locations like Ubud and Canggu.
You may also explore nearby gyms offering budget-friendly memberships, priced between IDR 300,000 and 800,000 ($20 to $50) monthly for basic Muay Thai or cross-training facilities and lessons. In Seminyak and Uluwatu, there are also upscale gyms and wellness facilities for those interested in specialized wellness programs, detox retreats, or fitness boot camps, though this involves costly memberships starting at IDR 1,000,000 ($65) monthly.
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When it comes to nightlife and recreation, Bali offers a range of experiences from relaxed to high-energy. For economical choices, you can experience lively beach clubs or neighborhood bars offering drinks from IDR 30,000 ($2) for a beer, or join live music events, which are usually free or cost about IDR 100,000 ($6 to $7) for entry.
If you’re in search of a more exclusive and luxurious night out, there are also many options to choose from especially in Seminyak and Uluwatu where upscale beach clubs and private elite bars are abundant. Cover charges usually vary from IDR 200,000 ($13) to IDR 500,000 ($33), plus extra expenses for premium cocktails or bottle service.
For recreation, consider taking surfing lessons or going on sunset cruises at affordable rates starting at approximately IDR 400,000 ($26) for a day excursion or water sports package.
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Health Services in Bali
Gaining access to quality healthcare and allocating enough funds for it is a crucial part of an expat’s living expenses in Bali and everywhere else. Thankfully, medical clinics and hospitals are easily accessible in the island and are generally foreigner-friendly. Here’s what to anticipate concerning healthcare and insurance:
- Doctor Appointments: Private practices typical bill around IDR 300000–500000 ($20–32 USD) per visit.
- Health Coverage Plans: You can get your complete healthcare coverage plan from well-known Indonesian healthcare providers such as Allianz Care and AXA Global for approximately IDR 1.5 million ($100) per month only. Note that prices vary depending on the plan and your customized inclusions.
Utilities and Connectivity: Bills and Mobile Services
In general, utility bills and mobile services in Bali are reasonably priced; however, it is entirely dependent on your lifestyle and consumption.
For a medium-sized apartment, for instance, electricity bills can go between IDR 500,000 and 1,500,000 ($33 to $100) monthly, depending on your air conditioning usage. Water costs are also relatively low, averaging from IDR 50,000 to 100,000 ($3–7) per month.
As for the internet services, the best choice for long-term stays is the fixed-line internet plans from Global Extreme, CBN, Biznet, or MTM for approximately IDR 300,000 per month. Coworking spaces also offer complimentary or paid high-speed internet connectivity for remote employees. However, if your itinerary involves outdoor travels, the most recommended method to remain connected is by using prepaid SIM cards (or eSIMs) from companies like Telkomsel or XL Axiata. They offer affordable and flexible data plans for as low as IDR 50,000, though prices change based on the available amount of data.
Average Monthly Travel Budget For Solo Travelers in Bali
With this guide, organizing an affordable trip to Bali as a solo budget traveler is completely achievable. Either you’ll go with the budget-friendly fun or the expensive comfort, you can still experience the island’s charm and heritage all for yourself the same way. Here is a breakdown of the average monthly living expenses for a simple yet cozy way of living in Bali.
| Category | Details | Estimated Cost in IDR | Estimated Cost in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Visa and Flight Tickets
|
One-way fares and Tourist Visa application
|
8,700,000–10,300,000
|
550–655050
|
|
Accommodation |
Co-living spaces for short term stays; Apartments for long-term rentals
|
30–100 million
|
1880–6300
|
|
Transportation
|
Scooters; Cars
|
600,000–15,500,000
|
40–980
|
|
Food and Groceries
|
Warungs; Grocery
|
1,200,000–2,500,000
|
75–150
|
|
Lifestyle and Recreation
|
Gym memberships and nightlife
|
∼1,000,000
|
65 |
|
Utilities
|
Bills (Electricity, Water, Internet)
|
1,000,000
|
65 |
|
Miscellaneous |
Emergency funds and Insurance
|
1,500,000
|
100 |
How to Reduce Monthly Living Expenses in Bali As An Expat?
Managing your monthly expenses in Bali can be easy with a few smart choices. For visitors and expats looking to reduce their living costs while enjoying the island, here are some practical tips to help minimize your travel budget and expat living expenses in Bali:
- Smart Cash Withdrawals: Use ATMs from reputable banks like BNI to withdraw up to 2,000,000 IDR and always select conversion by your own bank for better rates.
- Affordable Accommodation Options: Stay in a kos or choose co-living spaces in areas like Kerobokan to save on rent.
- Smart travels: For short-term stays, consider renting a scooter or car to avoid the expensive costs of ownership, and utilize ride-sharing services such as Gojek and Grab as budget-friendly options to taxis. In all of these modes of transportation, consistently opt for licensed taxis or riders to prevent being overcharged by unauthorized drivers.
- Prepare Your Own Food: Cut costs by cooking at home with local produce instead of eating out at pricey eateries.
- Shop Smart: Buy from local markets and shops offering VAT refunds for tourists to reduce grocery and shopping expenses and collect back taxes incurred on purchases.
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FAQ
Rent in Bali depends on your chosen location, type of accommodation, and the length of your stay. Popular areas like Ubud or Canggu have one-bedroom apartments between the range of $300–400 per month whereas in less touristy areas, accommodations can cost as low as $150–350.
Food costs in Bali can range from IDR 2,000,000 to IDR 4,000,000 per month, depending on whether you eat mostly local food or dine at expensive restaurants.
Yes, you will need a visa. Many expats use a tourist visa, which can be extended for up to 180 days, or apply for a social visa or business visa, depending on the length of stay.
Hidden costs in Bali may include health insurance, additional utility bills, and visa fees particularly for expats who plan to extend their stay beyond the initial tourist visa period. While the cost of obtaining a visa initially may be clear, visa extensions or changes in visa types can add up unexpectedly, as these fees are usually not part of the initial budget planning.
To save money, consider living outside tourist hotspots, cooking at home, and shopping at local markets for better prices on food and essentials.
Plan Your Next Bali Stay Now!
Planning your budget in 2025, whether you’re visiting Bali for a vacation or considering expat living, requires careful consideration of various factors. The cost of living in Bali can be quite manageable with the right planning, allowing you to fully experience the island’s beauty and culture. However, your choice of housing will have the most significant impact on your overall budget, as this is where the bulk of your expenses will be. Everything else—from transportation to food to lifestyle and leisure—offers a wide range of affordable options, giving you the flexibility to tailor your budget without sacrificing your experience. With careful planning, you can enjoy Bali’s enchanting atmosphere without breaking the bank.
