Living as a Digital Nomad in Bali, Indonesia in 2025
Bali, the Island of the Gods, has long been a favorite destination for digital nomads, and in 2025, it continues to be a top choice for remote workers seeking a balance between productivity and paradise. Let’s explore what makes Bali an ideal spot for digital nomads and what you can expect when living and working on this beautiful Indonesian island.
Cost of Living
One of the most attractive aspects of Bali for digital nomads is its affordable cost of living. In 2025, you can expect to live comfortably on a budget of $1,000 to $2,500 per month, depending on your lifestyle choices.
Accommodation: Monthly rent for a one-bedroom villa or apartment in popular areas like Canggu or Ubud ranges from $400 to $800. Many rentals come fully furnished and include utilities.
Food: Eating out at local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) costs as little as $2-$3 per meal. Western-style restaurants and cafes are pricier, averaging $7-$15 per meal. Monthly grocery expenses typically run around $200-$300.
Transportation: Renting a scooter, the most common mode of transport, costs about $50-$70 per month. Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab offer affordable alternatives for those who prefer not to drive.
Daily Necessities: Budget around $100-$200 per month for miscellaneous expenses like toiletries, clothing, and entertainment.
Internet Connectivity
In 2025, Bali’s internet infrastructure has significantly improved, especially in digital nomad hotspots. Most cafes, coworking spaces, and accommodations offer reliable high-speed internet suitable for remote work.
Average Speeds: Expect download speeds of 50-100 Mbps in popular areas, with some locations offering even faster connections.
Mobile Data: 4G coverage is widespread, and 5G networks are available in major towns, providing a reliable backup for your home or cafe internet.
Coworking Spaces: Bali boasts numerous coworking spaces with state-of-the-art facilities and lightning-fast internet. Monthly memberships range from $100 to $200.
Visa Regulations
Indonesia has embraced the digital nomad trend, making it easier for remote workers to stay long-term.
Digital Nomad Visa: Introduced in recent years, this visa allows digital nomads to live and work remotely in Bali for up to two years. Requirements include proof of employment or freelance contracts with non-Indonesian companies and a minimum monthly income.
Visa Extension: The process for extending visas has been streamlined, with many services now available online, reducing the need for in-person visits to immigration offices.
Quality of Life
Bali offers an exceptional quality of life that keeps digital nomads coming back year after year.
Safety: The island is generally safe, with low crime rates in areas popular among expats and tourists.
Healthcare: Modern medical facilities are available in major towns, with many doctors speaking English. International health insurance is recommended.
Climate: Bali’s tropical climate means warm temperatures year-round, with a dry season from April to October and a wet season from November to March.
Cultural Experiences: From stunning temples to traditional dance performances, Bali offers rich cultural experiences that provide a perfect balance to work life.
Workspaces and Community
Bali’s digital nomad scene is thriving, with numerous options for productive work and community engagement.
Coworking Spaces: Popular areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak are dotted with modern coworking spaces offering high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, and networking opportunities.
Cafes: Bali is famous for its Instagram-worthy cafes, many of which cater to digital nomads with reliable Wi-Fi and laptop-friendly setups.
Community Events: Regular meetups, workshops, and networking events allow digital nomads to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on projects.
Location and Accessibility
Bali’s strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
International Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport offers direct flights to major cities in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, with increasing connections to Europe and North America.
Island Hopping: Bali serves as a perfect jumping-off point for exploring other Indonesian islands or nearby countries in Southeast Asia.
Time Zone: Bali’s time zone (GMT+8) is convenient for those working with clients in Asia and Australia, while still allowing for reasonable overlap with European and North American business hours.Living as a digital nomad in Bali in 2025 offers an unparalleled blend of affordability, natural beauty, rich culture, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals. With improved infrastructure, digital nomad-friendly policies, and a high quality of life, Bali continues to be a top destination for those seeking to combine work with tropical island living.
