A Guide on How Much Does A Month of Living in Bali Cost?

Living in Bali cost, photo by Content Pixie on Pexels

Bali, with its instagrammable beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, has long been a magnet for travelers seeking a taste of paradise. Yet, for some, the allure goes beyond a fleeting vacation. The idea of living on this Indonesian island for an extended period has become an enticing prospect. But before you pack your bags and book your flight, there’s a crucial question that needs answering: How much does a month of living in Bali cost?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the expenses you can expect to encounter, from your visa, transportation, accommodation and other daily necessities. Let’s find out more!

1. How Much for the Visa?

Illustration of Visa, photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich on Pexels

Anyone is eligible to apply for the Single Entry B211 Tourism e-Visa, whether you wish to vacation in Bali or you’re an expat or digital nomad searching for a longer stay in Indonesia. It is now the ideal choice for non-residents and tourists who want to enter Indonesia and stay for an extended period of time, or for visitors of any country who do not qualify for the Visa On Arrival.

The Single Entry e-Visa is valid for 60 days and allows for two 60-day extensions, for a total stay of six months (180 days). The visa is known as a B211 Visit Visa, and while applying for it, you must specify whether you need the “Business Visa” or the “Tourism Visa.”

A visa agent can submit Single Entry B211 e-Visa applications online, eliminating the need to contact the Indonesian embassy in your home country or when you arrive in Indonesia. There are, however, some documents that must be submitted in order to apply:

• A scanned copy of your passport with at least 6 months of validity is required.
• A formal recent color photo. 
• Finally, to begin the application procedure, you must present proof of e-Visa payment.

The B211 Tourism Visa costs around $230 (IDR 3.500.000 ) with Asia Holiday as your sponsor. This includes the e-Visa fee, sponsorship and our service fee. The visa process will take 7-9 working days for a normal service and you have 90 days to use the visa before it expires. For more information and details about the perfect visa for your stay, our visa team will be happy to assist you. Kindly send us an e-mail: applyvisa@travelersolutionsid.com 

2. Rent a Bike for Easy Commuting

Renting a Bike, photo by Faisal Hijjaz on Pexels

When considering the cost of renting a bike for monthly commuting in Bali, several factors come into play. These include the type of bike, its condition, rental duration, and the location or provider you choose.

• Type of Bike: The cost will vary based on the type of bike you opt for. Standard scooters are generally more affordable compared to premium or high-end models. Additionally, if you prefer a motorbike over a scooter, the pricing may differ.
• Condition of the Bike: Newer, well-maintained bikes tend to command higher rental fees compared to older or less-maintained ones. It’s advisable to inspect the bike before renting it to ensure it meets your safety and comfort standards.
• Rental Duration: Longer-term rentals, such as monthly agreements, often come with discounted rates compared to daily or weekly rentals. Providers may offer packages tailored to different rental durations, so it’s worth inquiring about any available discounts.
• Location and Provider: Rental costs can vary depending on where you’re renting from. Larger cities or popular tourist areas might have higher rental fees compared to more remote or less touristic regions. Additionally, different rental companies may offer varying rates and terms, so it’s a good idea to compare options.

Monthly scooter rentals in Bali could range from approximately  $45 (IDR 700.000) up to $100 (IDR 1.500.000), depending on the factors mentioned above, but remember to always look for legit and insurer rentals

If you don’t have an International driving license, then you can get another option to move around, such as getting an online motorbike as Indonesia has several mobile applications that support the drivers from Gojek Indonesia, Grab, Asia Ride, Maxim and many more. Please make sure you booked and paid through the application, so you don’t get hassled and scam. 

3. Meal Budget

When planning a monthly meal budget, it’s essential to consider various factors that can influence your expenses. These may include your dining preferences, dietary restrictions, and whether you plan to cook at home or eat out regularly.

• Dining Preferences: Bali offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from affordable local warungs to upscale international restaurants. Your budget will largely depend on whether you prefer dining at local eateries, indulging in fine dining experiences, or opting for a mix of both.
• Eating Out vs. Cooking at Home: If you choose to prepare your own meals, you’ll likely spend less compared to dining out frequently. Expenses for groceries and cooking essentials can vary based on the types of ingredients you prefer and whether you opt for local produce or imported goods. Additionally, delivery food services such as Go-Food or Grab Food may have higher prices and delivery service charges.
• Type of Cuisine: Indonesian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and affordability. Local dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles) from street vendors and warungs are generally budget-friendly. However, if you have a preference for international cuisine, prices may be higher.
• Frequency of Dining Out: Eating out for every meal can add up quickly. Budget-conscious travelers often choose to cook some meals at home and reserve dining out for special occasions or specific cravings.
• Location: Prices for food can vary depending on where you are in Bali. Tourist-heavy areas or upscale neighborhoods may have higher prices compared to more local or less frequented areas.
• Special Diets: If you have dietary restrictions or preferences (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), you may need to allocate a specific portion of your budget for specialized or imported products.

A reasonable monthly meal budget for one person in Bali could range from $130 (IDR 2.000.000) to $320 (IDR 5.000.000) for a moderate mix of dining out and cooking at home. However, these figures can vary widely based on individual preferences and lifestyle choices.

4. Do You Need Insurance?

However, securing insurance is a crucial aspect of living in Bali, Indonesia. It provides financial protection and peace of mind in case of unexpected events or emergencies. The price of travel insurance is heavily influenced by your specific preferences and age. Other considerations for suitable medical insurance include pre-existing medical issues. Single-trip and annual multi-travel policies may be beneficial plan options.

As for the specific cost of monthly insurance in Bali, it can range widely. For instance, basic health insurance may start at around $65 (IDR 1.000.000) per month, while property insurance could range from $30 (IDR 500.000) to $130 (IDR 2.000.000) per month, depending on factors like location, coverage, and property value.

5. Accommodation Budget

Illustration of Accommodation in Bali, photo by Helena Lopes on Pexels

Creating a monthly accommodation budget in Bali necessitates careful consideration of various elements that can significantly impact your expenses. These include the type of accommodation, location, duration of stay, and personal preferences. Here’s an in-depth look at what to factor in:

• Type of Accommodation: Bali offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxurious villas. Your choice will play a pivotal role in determining your monthly budget.
• Location: Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on the area within Bali. High-demand tourist spots, such as Seminyak, Canggu or Ubud tend to have higher prices compared to less frequented areas.
• Duration of Stay: Longer-term rentals (such as yearly agreements) often come with discounted rates compared to daily, weekly, or monthly rentals. Many accommodations offer monthly rates specifically tailored to cater to extended stays.
• Facilities and Amenities: Consider the amenities provided by the accommodation. This may include factors like swimming pools, gym access, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and more. These amenities can influence the overall cost.
• Size and Layout: Larger or more luxurious accommodations typically come with higher price tags. If you’re comfortable with a more compact space, you may be able to find more budget-friendly options.
• Utilities and Additional Fees: Determine whether utilities like water, electricity, and internet are included in the rent. Some accommodations may have additional fees for services like cleaning or laundry.
• Seasonal Variation: Depending on the time of year, accommodation prices may fluctuate. High tourist seasons often come with higher rates.
• Negotiation and Bargaining: In some cases, especially with private rentals, there may be room for negotiation. It’s worth exploring this option, especially for longer-term stays.

Here’s a rough estimate for you:

• Budget Accommodation for 1-2 person in a room: $422 (IDR 6.500.000) – $974 (IDR 15.000.000) per month
• Mid-Range Accommodation for 1-2 person in a room:  $974 (IDR 15.000.000) – $2,000 (IDR 30.800.000) per month
• Luxury Accommodation:  $2,000 (IDR 30.800.000) and above per month

Keep in mind that these figures can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above. It’s crucial for you to fully understand the terms and conditions of the rental agreement before making a commitment. Additionally, it’s wise to be flexible and adjust your budget as you gain a better understanding of local prices and your own preferences.

In Asia Holiday Travel, we have several guest houses and budget accommodation, so hit us up and let us know your budget, so we can offer you if any of the rooms are available. 

In conclusion, determining the cost of living in Bali for a month involves careful consideration of various expenses, from accommodation and meals to visas and insurance. A reasonable monthly budget in Bali could range from $900 (IDR 14.000.000) to $1,600 (IDR 25.000.000), depending on individual preferences and lifestyle choices!

Enjoy Bali and remember to always check the country’s current regulations and culture.