Housing in Bali

Rental costs in Bali vary widely depending on location, size, and style. Most long-term leases are paid upfront for 12 months (some landlords may request a 2-year commitment), while shorter-term options like monthly rentals are available — but typically at a higher rate.

As a general guide, a 2-bedroom villa with a pool in Ubud might start from IDR 200 million per year (~USD 12K). In areas like Canggu or Umalas, a larger 3-bedroom enclosed-style villa with a pool can cost upwards of IDR 500 million per year (~USD 30K) — especially if it’s close to the beach or international schools.

Some villas include extras like pool and garden maintenance, housekeeping, rubbish collection and internet — but others don’t, so it’s important to clarify what’s included.

Our Bronze Package includes a detailed Cost of Living Guide, so you can confidently budget for housing, utilities, schooling, food, and lifestyle choices in Bali.

Learn more

Popular expat areas include:

• Canggu & Berawa – trendy and family-friendly, known for sunset beaches, stylish cafes, co-working spaces, and close proximity to many international schools
• Seminyak – central, with restaurants, shopping, and nightlife
• Sanur – quieter, beachside, popular with families and retirees
• Ubud – cultural hub with a focus on wellness and nature
• Bukit (Uluwatu/Jimbaran) – great for surfers and those seeking cliffside living
• Babakan – semi-rural yet central, with rice field views, larger villas, and quieter roads — ideal for families wanting more space without sacrificing proximity to Canggu’s main hubs
• Tumbak Bayuh – tranquil and up-and-coming, just north of Pererenan, offering a peaceful setting with easy access to cafes, beaches, and schools
• Seseh – a peaceful coastal village with a traditional Balinese feel, popular among surfers and those seeking oceanside calm just minutes from Canggu
• Cemagi – scenic and secluded, featuring black sand beaches, rice fields, and dramatic coastal temples — with quick access to both Canggu and Tanah Lot
• Kedungu –quiet and spacious, just beyond Tanah Lot, offering surf, sunsets, with more land and fewer crowds

Each area offers a different lifestyle, so the “best” one depends on your family’s needs.

Click here to read about an overview of the best areas to live in Bali.

Yes, absolutely! We have strong relationships with a trusted network of real estate agents who cover all areas of Bali. We work closely with them to ensure you receive great service, fair prices, and access to quality homes.

Before you arrive, we’ll introduce you to the right agents based on your housing requirements — for example, a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, fully furnished home that’s enclosed, with a pool and garden, within 15 minutes of your child’s school. We’ll also help you prepare a realistic budget, including what to expect for utilities, maintenance, staff, and internet costs.

You’ll receive our handy Housing Inspection Checklist to use when viewing properties, so you know exactly what to look for.

We usually recommend waiting to see a property in person before placing a deposit. However, if you’re not in Bali yet, our trusted agents can arrange video walk-throughs and live calls to help you make confident decisions from afar.

Visit our Silver package 

Yes — it’s very common to pay a 12-month lease upfront in Bali. That said, everything is negotiable and depends on the property owner. Shorter monthly leases are available but usually come with a premium of around 20%.

While paying a year in advance can feel daunting, it’s standard practice. The key is to have a clear contract and work with a reputable agent so you understand exactly who’s responsible for what. For longer leases (5–25 years), upfront payments are also typical, though some flexible terms may be available.

Learn more

If you’re planning a long-term stay, it’s best to start looking about 1–3 months before arrival.

Most long-term leases are signed in-person, after viewing the property yourself — photos online can be outdated or misleading. That said, you can research neighbourhoods, set a budget, and even book temporary accommodation (like a 1-month rental or hotel) while house hunting on the ground.

Our Housing Inspection Handbook (included in the Bronze Package) helps you prepare for the process and in our Silver Package we introduce you to trusted real estate agents so you can find your home.

Learn more

Not always, but it helps. Long-term rentals are also advertised offline or through WhatsApp and Facebook groups, making it hard to find the best options remotely.

Working with a local real estate agent can save time, reduce miscommunication, and help you navigate lease terms.  Due diligence is key either way — make sure you work with someone trustworthy. We share vetted agent contacts in our Silver Package. 

Learn more

Yes, but it depends on your flexibility and budget. Many families choose the expat hub areas like Berawa, Umalas, Babakan, Pererenan, and Sanur for their proximity to international schools. These areas offer villas with multiple bedrooms, pools, and enclosed living — but demand is high, so homes go fast. If you need specific features (e.g., short commute to school, enclosed kitchen, modern finish), start early and expect to view many options.

Our Housing Handbook, included in Bronze has multiple tips on choosing the right area and what to look out for when house hunting as a family.

Learn more

Foreigners cannot directly own freehold property in Indonesia. However, there are three common legal pathways to invest or secure long-term property rights:

Leasehold agreements – typically 20–30 years, often with extension options

• Right of Use (Hak Pakai) – available under certain conditions or through an Indonesian entity
• PT PMA (foreign-owned company) – allows property ownership under the company’s name
  

We can connect you with our trusted legal and property advisors to help you choose the best and most secure option for your situation.

Learn more