Living in Bali Made Easy: Housing Tips for Expats

Here is A to Z on how to find housing in Bali easily.

Finding housing in Bali as an expat can feel like a challenge at first, but with the right guidance, the process becomes much smoother. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern villa in Canggu, a cozy apartment in Ubud, or budget-friendly coliving in Denpasar, Bali has something for every lifestyle and budget. The key is knowing where to look and how to navigate local rental practices.

Bali’s housing market is unique compared to other countries. Most properties are rented on a yearly basis, but shorter monthly rentals are also common, especially in popular expat hubs like Seminyak and Sanur. Working with local agents, browsing Facebook community groups, and using trusted rental websites can all help you find the right home without unnecessary stress.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best areas to live in Bali for expats, what you should know before signing a lease, and practical tips to avoid common pitfalls. From understanding average rental prices to securing the right documents, here’s everything you need to know to find housing in Bali easily and start enjoying island life to the fullest.

Best Areas to Live in Bali for Expats

Bali is a magnet for expats thanks to its warm climate, vibrant culture, and relatively low cost of living. Each area offers a unique flavor—whether you’re seeking surfing, luxury, tranquility, or cultural immersion.

Choosing where to live in Bali depends on your lifestyle priorities. If you happen to love luxury and nightlife, then Seminyak is the right place to live, but when it comes to culture and wellness, many people love to stay in Ubud. It’s time to find out which parts of Bali are the most desirable for foreigners to live in.

1. Canggu

Canggu has become the hotspot for digital nomads and surfers, filled with trendy cafés, co-working spaces, and beach breaks. The housing market here leans toward modern villas and stylish rentals, but the popularity comes with downsides—traffic jams, high rents, and a tourist-heavy vibe.

2. Seminyak

Just next door, Seminyak caters to those who prefer luxury. Upscale villas, boutique apartments, and beach clubs dominate the scene, making it ideal for professionals or expats who want comfort and nightlife, though costs are among the highest on the island.

3. Ubud

For those seeking peace and culture, Ubud in central Bali offers a completely different rhythm. Surrounded by rice fields and art studios, it’s the spiritual heart of the island. Housing ranges from simple village homes to eco-friendly villas, and the area is perfect for yoga lovers and creatives, though it lacks beaches and has limited nightlife.

4. Sanur

Families often settle in Sanur, where calm waters, a laid-back atmosphere, and a safe environment make it attractive for long-term stays. Housing here is spacious and more affordable than in Seminyak, but entertainment options are fewer.

5. Denpasar

Finally, Denpasar, the island’s capital, appeals to budget-conscious expats or those working locally. It provides affordable housing, good access to schools and hospitals, and a strong local feel. The trade-off is heavier traffic and less of the relaxed, touristy charm found elsewhere.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the five most popular expat-friendly locations:

Area	Best For	Housing Options	Highlights	Caveats
Canggu	Digital nomads, surfers	Stylish villas, trendy guesthouses	Networking, cafes, surf scene	Traffic, tourist congestion, price hikes
Seminyak	Luxury seekers, expat professionals	Upscale villas, apartments	Beach clubs, dining, boutiques	Expensive, crowded, less cultural
Ubud	Wellness-focused, cultural seekers	Affordable homes, villas, tiny houses	Yoga culture, greenery, peaceful	No beaches, slower infrastructure
Sanur	Families, retirees	Beachfront villas, apartments	Calm, safe, practical living	Limited nightlife, fewer coworking spots
Denpasar	Professionals, tourists, budget conscious	Affordable long-term rentals	Great city access, local feel, urban convenience	No beach, traffic, fewer expat services

In short, Bali has something for every expat: Canggu for networking and surf, Seminyak for luxury living, Ubud for culture and wellness, Sanur for families, and Denpasar for practical, budget-friendly life. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize lifestyle, budget, or convenience.

Also read: 5 Things to Do in Seminyak: Exploring the Best of Bali

How to Rent a House in Bali

Finding a place to live in Bali is one of the most exciting parts of moving to the island. With so many housing options, it’s important to understand how the rental process works and what to expect as an expat.

Types of housing in Bali

The most common type of housing in Bali is apartments and villa rentals, which is perfect if you value privacy or plan to stay long-term. And nowadays, coliving spaces are popular because they are usually more affordable and located in busier areas such as Canggu, Seminyak, or Denpasar. They suit single expats or couples who want convenience and easy access to urban life.

• Villas: Usually private homes with spacious layouts, gardens, and sometimes a pool. They are ideal for families, couples, or anyone who values privacy and comfort. Villas are especially popular in areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud.
• Apartments: More affordable and often located in central or busy areas. Apartments suit solo expats or couples who want convenience and easy access to restaurants, shops, and coworking spaces.
• Coliving in Bali for a flexible option. If you’re a digital nomad or simply want a ready-made community, coliving in Bali is a fantastic choice. These properties offer private rooms combined with shared kitchens, workspaces, pools, and social activities. They provide convenience, flexibility, and instant networking with other expats.

Prepare documents before renting housing in Bali

When it comes to lease terms, you’ll find both monthly and yearly options. Monthly rentals are flexible and great for short stays or if you want to try out different areas before committing. Yearly leases, however, often come at a better price and are common for expats planning to stay long-term.

Working with local property agents can be very helpful if you’ve already made up your mind to stay in Bali. They usually know the market better, can negotiate with landlords, and assist with contracts. Make sure the agent is reputable and transparent about fees.

As for documents, expats usually need a valid passport and visa. Some landlords may also ask for a copy of your stay permit (KITAS or KITAP) if you have one. Payment is often requested upfront, especially for long-term contracts, so be prepared for that.

Cost of Living and Housing in Bali

When it comes to finding housing in Bali, the cost largely depends on the area you choose. In popular tourist and expat hubs like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud, monthly rent for a simple one-bedroom house or apartment can range between IDR 6–10 million (USD 400–650) per month.

Meanwhile, in quieter areas such as Gianyar or Tabanan, you may find similar units for IDR 3–5 million (USD 200–330) per month. Villas with pools and larger spaces in premium locations can easily go above IDR 15 million (USD 1,000+) per month.

Compared to Jakarta, where apartments in central business districts like Sudirman or Kuningan often start at IDR 8–12 million per month, Bali tends to offer better value for money, especially if you’re open to living outside the busiest neighborhoods.

Hidden costs are something expats should factor into their budget. Most landlords in Bali ask for a security deposit, usually equivalent to one month’s rent, and utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are typically not included in the rental price.

Another unique expense is the Banjar fee, a community contribution that supports local village activities and ceremonies, ranging from IDR 50,000–200,000 per month depending on the area. These costs may seem small, but they can add up, especially for long-term stays. In Jakarta, the equivalent hidden costs are usually higher electricity bills and service charges for apartment maintenance.

To make the most of your stay in Bali, smart budgeting is essential. Many expats recommend negotiating annual contracts to secure a lower monthly rate, particularly if you plan to stay for six months or more. Choosing accommodation a bit further from tourist hotspots not only lowers your rent but also reduces day-to-day expenses at restaurants and shops. Sharing a villa with fellow expats is another popular way to split costs while enjoying better amenities, such as a private pool or a larger kitchen.

Also read: A Complete Guide to Work in Indonesia as a Foreigner

Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience

Like in many popular destinations, rental scams do happen in Bali. Here tips to avoid rental scams in Bali to protect yourself:

• Visit the property in person before sending money. Photos can be misleading or copied from other listings.
• Use trusted agents or platforms instead of random online ads. Ask for recommendations from expat groups or local communities. You can also use the Rukita app or website to find coliving spaces and apartments in Bali.
• Get everything in writing—your lease agreement should clearly state the price, duration, and any included utilities.
• Avoid paying 100% upfront for long-term rentals unless you’re certain the landlord or agent is legitimate. A secure deposit is normal, but large transfers without a contract are risky.
• Check ownership documents if you’re renting directly from a landlord. The property should belong to the person signing the agreement.

Taking these precautions will save you time, money, and stress while ensuring a smooth rental experience. Are you ready to find your dream house in Bali?

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Finding housing in Bali for expats doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the cost of living and housing in Bali, choosing the right area, and knowing how renting in Bali works, you can secure a home that matches your lifestyle. From beachfront villas in Canggu to budget-friendly coliving in Denpasar, the housing market in Bali offers something for everyone.

Want to find a comfortable, modern, and strategically located apartment to stay in? Rukita offers many kinds of apartments that you can rent to live a more comfortable life.

Don’t forget to download Rukita app via Google Play Store or App Store or visit www.Rukita.co. Follow Rukita’s Instagram account @rukita_indo, X account @rukita_id, and TikTok account @rukita_id to get the most recent information and other interesting deals!