Is Bali Still Affordable for Expats in 2025? (And Is It Still Worth the Move?)

So you’ve seen the dreamy reels—sunsets in Uluwatu, smoothie bowls in Canggu, yoga in Ubud. Maybe you’re even daydreaming about packing up and moving to Bali. But with all the buzz lately, you might be wondering: Is Bali still affordable for expats? And is it actually worth it in 2025? Short answer: Yes. But let’s get into the real talk.

TheBaliGuides

4/8/20252 min read

brown wooden chairs on brown wooden dock near body of water during daytime

What "Affordable" Means in Bali These Days

The cost of living in Bali can still be super budget-friendlybut it really depends on your lifestyle. If

you're into local warungs, simple villas, and scooters, your monthly expenses can easily stay under

$1,000 USD. But if you're craving imported almond milk lattes, gym memberships, and sunset

cocktails at beach clubs every weekend... youll need a bit more wiggle room.

Even with prices slowly rising, Bali is still way more affordable than most Western countries. And the

value you get for things like housing, wellness, and food? Chefs kiss.

So, Is It Still Worth It?

If you're looking for a slower pace, more nature, a creative vibe, or just a change of scenery, Bali

checks so many boxes:

- Community: There are thriving expat hubs all around the islandthink Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, and

even Sanurwhere its easy to meet people, network, and find your crew.

- Remote work heaven: Tons of cute cafes, coworking spaces, and reliable internet make working

online from paradise totally doable.

- Personal growth: Between the yoga retreats, wellness scene, and general laid-back vibe, Bali kind

of forces you to breathe a little deeper.

- Inspiration everywhere: From creatives to entrepreneurs to healers, the island is full of people

building unique lives and businesses. Its hard not to feel inspired.

But Lets Talk Logistics...

Moving to Bali isnt just about surfing and sunsetsyoull need to figure out the boring (but super

important) stuff too. Like:

- What kind of visa you actually need

- How to open a local bank account

- Whether youre allowed to work or earn income here

- How to rent a villa safely

- What areas are best for families, remote workers, or solo travelers

- And how to actually connect with other expats (without just swiping on Bumble BFF)

If your heads spinning just thinking about itdont worry, Ive got you. I created The Bali Expat Guide,

which walks you through all of this step by step. From choosing the right visa to setting up your life

here with confidence, its basically your Bali starter pack (without the overwhelm).

Final Thoughts

Yes, Bali is changing. And yes, its a little more expensive than it used to be. But its still one of the

most affordable, beautiful, and soul-stirring places you can live as an expat in 2025if you plan smart

and stay informed.

So if youre ready to start a new chapter (or just want to know if your dream is actually realistic),

check out my Bali Expat Guide and take the guesswork out of your big move.

Love,

The Bali Guides