5 Months In Bali – Accurate Cost of Living in Bali, Indonesia! [2026 Guide]

I know most of you’re already aware that I’ve been staying in Bali, Indonesia for a long period of time now.

As a current resident of this beautiful island, I can attest to the fact that Bali has become an increasingly popular destination for both tourists and expats in recent years. With its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and affordable living costs, it’s easy to see why.

In this article, I’ll provide an honest and personal account of the expenses involved in living in Bali, from accommodation and food to transportation and healthcare.

Whether you’re a digital nomad, a retiree, or just someone interested in living in Bali, this guide will give you a realistic idea of how much money you’ll need to comfortably live on this tropical island.

Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Ah, Canggu. This place has become my home away from home. It’s a small village situated on the southwest coast of Bali, Indonesia, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to settle down here.

Canggu is a buzzing hub for digital nomads and surf enthusiasts. Its beautiful beaches, hip cafes, and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal spot for anyone seeking an active pace of life.

The village has a unique charm to it that’s hard to find anywhere else. There’s something about the combination of modern cafes and traditional Balinese architecture that feels effortlessly cool.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. Canggu is also a vibrant community with a strong sense of camaraderie. The locals are friendly, and the expat community is welcoming, making it easy to make friends and feel at home quickly.

Whether you’re into surfing, yoga, or just good food and drinks, Canggu has something for everyone with activities for the elderly and young. From sunset drinks at a beach bar to early morning surf sessions, this village has captured my heart, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.

Book the best beach bar to watch sunset here.

Living in Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Living in Canggu is a unique experience that combines traditional Balinese culture with modern amenities. The architecture here ranges from traditional Balinese-style homes to modern villas with swimming pools and beautiful gardens.

One of the things I love about living in Canggu is the community. It’s a tight-knit community of locals, expats and digital nomads from all over the world.

This makes it a great place to meet new people, make friends, and build professional connections. As a person who wants to expand my network and meet more like-minded beautiful beings, this is the reason why I chose to be based in Canggu.

Canggu is a hub for digital nomads in Bali, so you’ll find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants that cater to remote workers, so it also means being surrounded by like-minded people which I personally preferred.

The community here is very welcoming, and it’s easy to make new friends through various events and activities that are organized regularly, like yoga classes, surf lessons, beach cleanups, language exchanges, networking events, and social gatherings. There’s always something going on, and it’s a great way to meet people and learn more about the local culture.

Book the best yoga class in Canggu here.

The cost of living is generally affordable, but keep in mind that prices have been rising in recent years due to the increasing popularity of Canggu.

If you’re wondering about the culture and traditions of Bali, they’re very much alive in Canggu. You’ll see offerings and ceremonies in the streets, and hear the sounds of gamelan music and chanting. Balinese Hinduism plays a significant role in daily life here, and it’s important to respect and participate in these traditions when you can.

While Canggu has a laid-back and relaxed vibe, it’s also a rapidly developing area with construction projects and roadworks happening all around. Traffic can be a bit of a headache during peak hours, but it’s nothing compared to the gridlock in places like Jakarta or Bangkok.

As for architecture, Canggu has undergone significant development in recent years. While there are still traditional Balinese homes and temples in the area, modern villas and apartments have also popped up to cater to the growing number of expats and tourists.

Living in Canggu can be a wonderful and unique experience, especially for those who crave the community and the accessibility to everything they need.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not a perfect paradise, and certain challenges come with living in a developing country, such as occasional power outages, traffic, and language barriers. It may take some time to adjust, but the rewards of living in this beautiful and vibrant community are well worth it.

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Cost of Living in Bali, Indoneisa

Living in Bali is a dream come true for many people, but before you pack your bags and set off for this tropical paradise, it’s always useful to have a good understanding of the cost of living in Bali so you can budget your trip.

As someone who’s been living in Bali for a while now, I can say that the cost of living here is generally affordable, although higher than the places I’ve lived in such as Mexico, Colombia, Peru and Bolivia. However, like anywhere else in the world, expenses can vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.

Don’t worry, I’ll break down my typical expenditures while living in Bali. By the end of it, you’ll have a better idea of how much money you’ll need to live comfortably on this beautiful island.

Accommodation in Bali, Indonesia

Finding affordable and comfortable accommodation in Bali can be quite tricky, especially if you’re planning to stay for an extended period. However, with a little bit of research and effort, it’s possible to find a place that suits your budget and preferences.

One of the best ways to look for monthly rentals is through Facebook groups, WhatsApp groups, word of mouth, or simply Google searching.

Using Google Maps can be particularly helpful as you can easily filter your search by location and type of accommodation.

You can check out my video where I walk you through how I use Google Maps to look for direct contacts to cheap accommodation in Bali

When searching for accommodation in Bali, the options can range from hostels, guest houses, hotels, and resorts, to villas. The cost of accommodation varies depending on your preferences, with hostels starting from around USD 10 per night, and up to a couple of hundred dollars for luxurious private villas.

If you’re planning to stay in Bali for a month or more, renting a guest house or villa can be more cost-effective. Monthly rental prices range from USD 330 upwards, depending on the location, size, and facilities of the property.

It’s worth noting that properties with kitchen facilities tend to be more expensive, so you may want to factor in your food budget when making your decision.

When searching for monthly rentals, you can either reach out to the property owner directly through WhatsApp or email or go through an agency. Using an agency may take a bit longer, but they can provide you with a wider range of options and take care of the paperwork for you.

For those on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options available. Such as:

1. Lokal Bali Hostel

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay in Bali, Lokal Bali Hostel is a great option. Located in the lively area of Kuta, the hostel offers simple but cosy dormitory-style rooms and shared bathrooms.

You can enjoy some fresh air on the rooftop terrace or take a dip in the swimming pool. Best of all, it’s within walking distance of many hotspots like Kuta Beach, Waterbom Bali and shopping malls.

Bed prices start from $8 per night depending on your room preference and season. Lots of guests have left glowing reviews complimenting the cleanliness, helpful staff and convenient location!

Book here.

2. H-ostel Bali

H-ostel Bali is also an affordable hostel situated in Legian, Bali. It boasts mixed and female-only dorms as well as private en-suite rooms. The hostel has a rooftop bar with splendid city views, a swimming pool, and a communal kitchen.

Legian is famous for its shopping hubs and thriving nightlife scene; hence it’s an ideal location to be living during your stay at H-ostel Bali. You can quickly get to the beach or explore nearby attractions like Kuta Beach & Seminyak.

Dorm prices start from $10 per night while private rooms range from $25 per night onwards depending on the type of room you choose.

Book here.

3. Bali Bobo Hostel

Looking for an affordable and comfortable stay in the heart of Kuta, Bali? Look no further than Bali Bobo Hostel!

With dormitory-style accommodations starting at just $6 USD per night, this hostel offers basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning, lockers for secure storage, and a communal lounge area and rooftop terrace for socializing and relaxing.

The hostel’s central location puts guests within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and nightlife, as well as Kuta Beach. Bali Bobo Hostel is a great choice for budget-minded travellers who value affordability and creativity.

Book here.

Finding affordable accommodation in Bali can be a bit of a challenge, but with patience and perseverance, you’ll be able to find a place that meets your needs and budget. Just remember to do your research and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Watch how I do it in this video.

For the direct links to the Whatsapp and Telegram groups for accommodation, contact me via email for a private invite.

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Transport in Bali, Indonesia

Transportation in Bali can be a challenge, especially if you’re not used to driving on narrow, winding roads with unpredictable traffic.

While walking is a great way to get some exercise and explore the local area, it’s not always safe or practical, especially during rush hour or in the rain.

For most expats living in Bali, the most convenient and affordable way to get around is by renting a scooter.

Rent a scooter or motorbike here.

Scooters can be rented for as little as IDR 900,000 per month (around USD 60) for an entry-level Scoopy 110 cc model, or up to 1.5 million IDR per month (around USD 130) for a more powerful 150 cc NMAX model.

Scooter Model	USD	IDR
Scoopy 110 cc Model	USD 60	IDR 900,000
NMAX 150 cc Model	USD 130	IDR 1,500,000

If you’re not comfortable riding a scooter or prefer not to, there are other transportation options available.

Gojek is a popular ride-hailing app in Bali, offering both car and scooter rides.

Cars offer added comfort, making them an attractive option, especially considering the challenging traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

Rent a private car with driver here.

Scooters are a more efficient and cost-effective option, with fares starting at around USD 1-2 for short trips around Canggu. Longer trips to places like Ubud can cost up to IDR 50,000 (around USD 5).

It’s worth noting that there are few rules around scooter licensing in Bali, and many ex-pats and tourists ride without proper licenses or insurance. While this may be tempting, it’s important to remember that accidents do happen, and you’ll be responsible for any damages or injuries you cause.

If you do choose to ride a scooter, make sure you wear a helmet, obey traffic laws, and take precautions in rainy weather, such as getting a rain jacket. I’ve been using this Little Donkey brand and it’s holding up well. It even acts as my windbreaker and for me to keep warm in!

Transportation costs in Bali can be quite reasonable, especially if you’re willing to use scooters or ride-hailing apps like Gojek. Just be sure to factor in the cost of renting or buying a scooter, as well as any necessary safety equipment, when planning your budget.

Petrol in Bali, Indonesia

When travelling to Canggu, renting a scooter is a popular choice for getting around the town. If you’re planning on renting a scooter during your stay in Canggu, you’ll need to budget for petrol costs as well.

The good news is that petrol prices are relatively cheap in Bali, with prices around USD 1 per litre. Main roads usually have petrol stations where you can fill up your tank. However, there are also street vendors that offer petrol for a slightly higher price, and they usually fill up your tank using a portable machine or a bottle.

However, if you prefer to save a little money and avoid the petrol stations, you may also come across street vendors who can fill up your tank for you. While this may be a convenient option, do keep in mind that it may cost a little extra compared to filling up at a petrol station.

As for how much petrol you’ll need, that depends on how much you plan to ride your scooter.

On average, a full tank of petrol for a small scooter like a Scoopy costs around IDR 36,000 or USD 2, which can last you up to a week or more depending on how frequently you use your scooter.

For example, if you plan to commute to your co-working space, explore the local area, and go out to eat regularly, you may find yourself needing to fill up your tank more often.

In total, you can expect to spend around IDR 150,000 or USD 10 per month on petrol if you’re renting a scooter during your stay in Canggu. While petrol costs are certainly low, do keep in mind that they may fluctuate slightly depending on the current market prices.

Eating out in Bali, Indonesia

When it comes to eating out in Bali, there are many options available depending on your budget and preferences.

One of the most affordable options is to eat at local eateries, known as warungs, where you can get food for as low as IDR 20,000 (USD 1.40) or IDR 40,000 (USD 2.80). These places usually serve Indonesian cuisines, such as nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles), and are popular among both locals and tourists.

If you prefer to eat at cafes, you can expect to pay a bit more. For example, a smoothie bowl might cost around IDR 17,000 (USD 1.20) while juices can range from IDR 30,000 (USD 2.10) to IDR 55,000 (USD 3.85). Coffees are usually priced around IDR 30-40,000 (USD 2 – 2.80) and beers, including the popular local Bintang beer, can cost around IDR 35,000 (USD 2.45) to IDR 60,000 (USD 4.20) depending on the location.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from, ranging from cosy places to high-end establishments.

Prices for mains typically start from around IDR 150,000 (USD 10.50) and can go up to IDR 500,000 (USD 35) or more for fancy restaurants. Adding a cocktail to your meal can cost around IDR 150,000 (USD 10.50), while a coconut at the beach might set you back around IDR 20,000 (USD 1.40).

Food & Beverages
	USD	IDR
Smoothie Bowl	USD 1.20	IDR 17,000
Juice	USD 2.10 – 3.85	IDR 30,000 – 55,000
Coconut Juice	USD 1.40	IDR 20,000
Coffee	USD 2.10 – 2.80	IDR 30,000 – 40,000
Bintang Beer	USD 2.45 – 4.20	IDR 35,000 – 60,000
Cocktail	USD 10.50	IDR 150,000

 

Restaurants
	USD	IDR
Local Warung (Eateries)	USD 1.40 – 2.80	IDR 20,000 – 40,000
Regular Restaurants	USD 10.50	IDR 150,000
Upscale Restaurants	USD 35	IDR 500,000

Some of my favourite eateries can be found below. I’ve also written a full list of the best cafes to try in Bali. Try them out (yes all 41 of them), I highly recommend each and every one of the ones listed!

1. Crate Café

First, there’s Crate Café, a popular spot for breakfast and brunch that serves up delicious and healthy options at a reasonable price.

2. Warung Bu Mi

Warung Bu Mi is a great choice for those looking for authentic Indonesian cuisine at an affordable price, with generous portions and flavorful dishes.

Bali offers a wide variety of food options at different price points, so you can find something that suits your taste and budget. Whether you prefer to eat at a local warung, a trendy café, or a fancy restaurant, there are plenty of choices to explore.

Gym and Yoga in Bali, Indonesia

For those who enjoy working out or practising yoga, there are plenty of gym and yoga classes available in Bali.

Drop-in prices for yoga classes typically range from IDR 100,000 – 150,000, which is approximately USD 7 – 10. If you plan to attend classes regularly, it’s recommended to sign up for a package to save some money.

As a yoga enthusiast, I’ve tried out different studios in Canggu, and I must say that there are plenty of options available. Each of the studios I’ve tried has a unique atmosphere and offers different classes to suit various levels of practitioners.

Try out Yoga Class at Ubud Centre

1. Radiantly Alive

Radiantly Alive is a well-known yoga studio that has a wide range of classes, from Vinyasa to Yin Yoga, and even aerial yoga. I personally love their yoga flow classes, they are perfect for a morning workout and leave me feeling energized and centred for the rest of the day.

2. Nirvana

Nirvana is another fantastic yoga studio that offers a more intimate and relaxed setting. Their classes are great for beginners and intermediate practitioners, with a focus on alignment and mindfulness.

3. Serenity

Serenity is a beautiful yoga studio that offers a blend of traditional and modern styles of yoga. Their classes are perfect for those who’re looking for a more challenging workout and a deeper connection to their mind, body, and spirit.

4. Samadi

Lastly, Samadi is a yoga and wellness centre that offers yoga classes, workshops, and retreats. What sets them apart is their focus on sustainability and community involvement. I love attending their community events and meeting new people who share the same passion for yoga and wellness.

When it comes to fitness in Canggu, there are plenty of gym options available for you.

As for me, I prefer to keep my workout routine consistent, and the gym is the perfect place for that.
Many of these gyms offer state-of-the-art equipment and classes such as HIIT, pilates, and more. Prices for gym memberships vary depending on the location and facilities, but you can expect to pay around IDR 400,000/ USD 28 to IDR 800,000/ USD 56 per month.

There are 4 popular gyms that are highly recommended by long-term stayers of Bali: Nirvana, Wanderlust Fitness, Obsidian, and RAW.

1. Nirvana

Newly revamped, focus on callisthenics, has a sauna, pool and ice bath for post-workout recovery

2. Wanderlust Fitness

Has great high-intensity group classes. Has a sauna, pool, and ice bath for post-workout recovery.

3. Obsidian Gym

Newly opened for those who live closer to Pererenan, state-of-the-art machines. Has a sauna and ice bath for post-workout recovery.

4. RAW Gym

RAW is conveniently located on Berawa, open-air and spacious. You’re allowed to train with no shoes. The staff is really friendly. When I went to work out with my injured knee, he made a bouquet of flowers from a piece of paper to give to me. How sweet!

The rest of the gyms that I’ve tried out i.e. Avenue Fitness, Fitness Plus, Victory Fitness, I wouldn’t recommend. While their location is good and it’s air-conditioned, I don’t fancy the old machines or cramped gym space.

Body Factory is the most popular “influencer” gym everyone talks about, but I also wouldn’t recommend it. Yes, it has very modern equipment, but I find the actual gym area to be cramped and the people who work out snobbish, which is to be expected with the premium prices they charge.

Some gyms and yoga studios in Bali also offer free trial classes, so it’s a good idea to take advantage of these offers before committing to a membership or package.

Whether you prefer yoga or hitting the gym, Bali has a variety of options to suit your fitness needs. Just make sure to pack comfortable workout clothes and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your workouts.

Surfing in Bali, Indonesia

Surfing is one of the most popular activities in Canggu, and it’s no surprise why with its beautiful beaches and great surf conditions. If you’re interested in trying it out, there are some affordable options available.

A board rental for 2 hours can be as low as IDR 50,000/ USD 3. This is an incredibly cheap price, and I’ve never found any other places in the world where I could rent a surfboard for such a low price.

If you’re new to surfing or want to improve your skills, you may want to consider hiring an instructor. For a 2-hour private session with an instructor, you can expect to pay around IDR 350,000/ USD 23.

This may seem like a higher price compared to the board rental, but it’s still a reasonable rate for a one-on-one lesson with an experienced instructor.

It’s worth noting that surfing conditions in Canggu can vary depending on the season and the tides.

If you’re a beginner, it’s best to stick to the smaller waves near the shore and make sure you have proper safety gear such as a leash and a rash guard.

Experienced surfers may want to check out some of the bigger waves further out, but it’s always important to assess the conditions and make sure you have the necessary skills to handle them.

Book a surf lesson in Kuta here.

Coworking Spaces in Bali, Indonesia

If you plan to stay in Canggu for a while and need a dedicated workspace, you can choose from a variety of coworking spaces available in the area. Some of the popular options include Outpost, B Work, Tropical Nomad Kinship, and Genesis.

The pricing for coworking spaces varies depending on the package you choose. The cost typically ranges from USD 100 – 200 per month. The packages can include day passes, renting a dedicated desk space, or paying for unlimited hours across different locations or by the hour.

1. B Work

One of the most popular co-working spaces in Canggu is B Work, which is located in the centre of Canggu. B Work offers unlimited usage for around USD 230 per month, and they have a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and printing services.

This coworking space is more than just a workspace – it’s an experience. From the moment I walked in, I was taken aback by the state-of-the-art equipment that catered to my working needs — and for free! The standing desks and free external monitors were a game-changer for me as someone who prefers flexibility and comfort while working. And don’t even get me started on their modern amenities – they’ve got everything from high-speed internet to cosy breakout areas perfect for those much-needed breaks.

However, what truly sets this place apart is its community of like-minded individuals who share the same entrepreneurial spirit as me. Through the events held regularly, I’ve made connections with inspiring people whom I now call friends.

2. Outpost

Granted, Outpost also hosts a variety of events for networking and skill development. After working in Outpost for a month hoping to find a community or make some friends, it wasn’t as friendly and open an atmosphere as I’d hoped.

Another popular option is Outpost. They have 3 locations in Bali, including one in Canggu. The prices for co-working at Outpost start at around USD 100 per month for a day pass, but the most popular package is the unlimited desk usage across all three locations, which costs USD 165 per month.

3. Tropical Nomad

I’ve also visited Tropical Nomad briefly to work on some days. I like that the location is very central, on the Canggu Shortcut. There are plenty of spaces to work from, in different settings, from couches to indoor spaces. Personally, I found it to be overcrowded i.e. people are working too close together, and the indoor, air-conditioned seating is usually limited and full if you come in late.

Other coworking spaces in the area may offer different prices and amenities, so it’s best to do your research and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Some coworking spaces may offer additional perks such as free coffee or tea, meeting rooms, and networking events to help you connect with other professionals in the area.

Wifi in Bali, Indonesia

When considering the cost of living in Bali, reliable internet access is a key factor. That’s why I’ve been relying on my Indonesia eSIM with Jetpac to stay connected, even when traveling to remote areas by bus.

With Jetpac’s 20 GB plan costing only IDR 300,000 (USD 20) for 30 days, I enjoy lightning-fast internet without the hassle of physical SIM cards. It’s like having a digital passport with unlimited possibilities!

Whether I’m working remotely from a beachside cafe or exploring hidden waterfalls in the jungle, Jetpac ensures that I stay connected and productive throughout my time in Bali.

Laundry in Bali, Indonesia

Laundry is another essential aspect of daily life that you’ll need to consider during your stay in Canggu. Luckily, laundry services are readily available in Canggu at an affordable price. In fact, it’s probably cheaper to do your laundry at a laundromat than to wash your own laundry.

You can typically get your laundry done for around IDR 19,000/ USD 1.3 per kilogram.

For those who’re travelling light, this may not be much of an issue, but for those who’re carrying a lot of clothes, this could be a lifesaver. Most laundry services offer same-day or next-day delivery, so you can be sure that you’ll have clean clothes ready to go when you need them.

For a full load of laundry, you can expect to pay under USD 6, which is very affordable compared to Western standards.

When it comes to the cost of laundry, it really depends on how frequently you need to get it done. If you’re travelling light and only need to do laundry once a week, it may only cost you around IDR 80,000/ USD 5.5 per month.

However, if you have a lot of clothes and need to do laundry more frequently, the cost can add up quickly. It’s worth noting that some accommodations in Canggu may offer laundry services for their guests, so be sure to check with your accommodation before seeking out a laundry service on your own.

Overall Cost Of Living In Bali, Indonesia

Living in Canggu is generally affordable and can be quite comfortable if you’re conscious of your spending habits.

As mentioned, the rough cost of living in Canggu is around IDR 18 million, which is equivalent to USD 1,200. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and your actual expenses can vary depending on your lifestyle.

Here’s a monthly breakdown of the cost of living:

Category	Estimated Cost (IDR)	Estimated Cost (USD)
Accommodation	5,000,000	336.13
Scooter Rental	1,000,000	67.22
Petrol	150,000	10.08
Co-working	2,500,000	168.04
Gym	1,300,000	87.38
Yoga	1,500,000	100.81
Food	6,000,000	403.23
Laundry	80,000	5.38
Total	18,530,000	1,249.27

In conclusion, the cost of living in Canggu can be quite affordable, especially if you’re conscious of your spending habits.

With plenty of budget-friendly options available for accommodation, transportation, coworking spaces, and food, you can enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle of Canggu without breaking the bank.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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In conclusion, living in Canggu, Bali can be quite affordable for those who’re willing to adapt to the local lifestyle and embrace a simpler way of living.

With a reasonable budget of around USD 1,200 per month, you can comfortably afford accommodation, transportation, food, and other basic necessities. Then again, the cost of living can vary greatly depending on individual preferences and choices.

Living in Bali can offer a unique experience with its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, rich culture, and friendly people. It’s not surprising that Bali has become a popular destination for tourists and expats alike. Before deciding to move to Bali, it’s important to do your research and plan accordingly.

So, would you consider living here in Bali or was this number something that you expected? I’m interested to know! Leave your answers in the comments below 😉