Cost of Living in Bali in 2024: A Complete Breakdown

Bali has long been a favourite destination for expats, digital nomads, and tourists alike. Its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and relatively low cost of living make it a top choice for those looking to live a tropical lifestyle. But how much does it really cost to live in Bali in 2024? Whether you're planning a short stay or looking to make the Island of the Gods your permanent home, this guide will give you a complete breakdown of living expenses.

Housing and Rent Costs in Bali

One of the biggest factors affecting the cost of living in Bali is accommodation. Housing prices can vary widely depending on the location, type of property, and whether you choose to rent or buy.

1. Renting Property in Bali

Renting property in Bali is a common choice for expats, and it's crucial to understand how costs fluctuate. Rent prices in 2024 continue to rise, especially in popular areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud, where expats and digital nomads frequently reside.

• Average Cost of Renting a Villa:

• One-bedroom villa: IDR 5,000,000 – IDR 12,000,000 per month (£260 – £630)

• Two-bedroom villa: IDR 8,000,000 – IDR 20,000,000 per month (£420 – £1,050)

• Three-bedroom villa: IDR 15,000,000 – IDR 35,000,000 per month (£780 – £1,830)

• The rental prices are often negotiable, especially if you’re willing to sign a long-term contract. Keep in mind, rent is typically paid annually upfront, and prices can include maintenance, internet, and sometimes utilities.

• Apartment Rentals: Apartments tend to be cheaper than villas, particularly in Denpasar or less touristy areas. Prices range from:

• One-bedroom apartment: IDR 3,000,000 – IDR 7,000,000 per month (£160 – £365)

• Two-bedroom apartment: IDR 5,000,000 – IDR 10,000,000 per month (£260 – £525)

2. Buying Property in Bali

For those looking to buy, the process is more complex as foreigners cannot technically own land. Instead, they can lease land for up to 25-30 years or establish a partnership with an Indonesian citizen. Prices for Bali property depend on location:

• Land in central areas: Starts from IDR 700,000,000 (£36,500) for 100 square meters.

• Luxury villas: Can cost upwards of IDR 10,000,000,000 (£525,000).

Utilities and Household Costs

When renting a property in Bali, utilities like electricity, water, and internet are usually not included, so it's important to factor these into your budget.

• Electricity: IDR 1,000,000 – IDR 2,500,000 per month (£50 – £130), depending on air conditioning usage.

• Water: Typically cheap, around IDR 100,000 – IDR 200,000 per month (£5 – £10).

• Internet: High-speed fibre internet is available in most areas, costing around IDR 300,000 – IDR 700,000 per month (£16 – £36).

Also read: 5 Essential Steps to Buy Land in Bali as a Foreigner

Food and Groceries

Food expenses in Bali can be as affordable or extravagant as you want them to be. Eating local food from warungs (local eateries) is very cheap, while dining at Western-style restaurants or cafes will cost more.

1. Eating Out

• Local food (warungs): A meal costs between IDR 20,000 – IDR 50,000 (£1 – £2.50).

• Mid-range restaurants: Meals typically range from IDR 100,000 – IDR 250,000 (£5 – £13).

• High-end restaurants: Expect to pay IDR 300,000 or more per person (£16+).

2. Groceries

If you prefer cooking at home, here’s an estimate of monthly grocery costs:

• Local produce (rice, vegetables, fruits): IDR 1,500,000 – IDR 2,000,000 per month (£78 – £105).

• Imported goods: Imported items like wine, cheese, and specialty foods can increase your grocery bill significantly.

Transportation

Bali's public transport system is limited, so most people rely on scooters, cars, or taxis to get around. Ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab are also widely available.

1. Scooter Rental and Petrol

• Scooter rental: IDR 700,000 – IDR 1,000,000 per month (£36 – £52).

• Petrol: IDR 50,000 – IDR 100,000 per week (£2.60 – £5.20).

2. Car Rental and Fuel

If you prefer driving a car, expect the following costs:

• Car rental: IDR 4,000,000 – IDR 6,000,000 per month (£210 – £315).

• Fuel: IDR 500,000 – IDR 1,000,000 per month (£26 – £52), depending on usage.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare in Bali can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on the service and location. Expats typically opt for private healthcare or travel to neighbouring countries for major medical treatments.

• Doctor visit: IDR 300,000 – IDR 500,000 (£16 – £26).

• Health insurance: International health insurance costs vary, but expect to pay between IDR 2,000,000 – IDR 5,000,000 per month (£105 – £260), depending on coverage.

Also read: 10 Best Business Opportunities in Bali for Maximum Profit

Entertainment and Lifestyle

Living in Bali offers a wide range of entertainment and leisure activities, from beach days to cultural experiences. Below is a rough idea of what you might spend on entertainment and leisure in 2024.

• Gym membership: IDR 300,000 – IDR 1,000,000 per month (£16 – £52).

• Yoga classes: IDR 100,000 – IDR 200,000 per session (£5 – £10).

• Cinema ticket: IDR 50,000 – IDR 100,000 (£2.60 – £5.20).

Cost of Living Comparison: Bali vs Other Locations

Comparing Bali to other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Vietnam, Bali can be more expensive due to the higher cost of property rent and the reliance on imported goods. However, the lower cost of local food and transport balances out these expenses for many expats. Overall, Bali remains a cost-effective option for those seeking a tropical lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Bali in 2024 can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. From affordable local living to luxurious expat lifestyles, Bali offers a range of options to suit different budgets. Understanding the costs of Bali property rent, utilities, food, transport, and healthcare is key to planning your move. Whether you're planning to stay for a few months or considering long-term living, Bali continues to offer an attractive balance of affordability and quality of life.