Living in Ubud

Ubud has a very different rhythm from Bali’s coastal hubs. Surrounded by jungle, rice fields, and traditional villages, it’s known as the island’s cultural and spiritual heart. Many families, creatives, and remote workers choose Ubud for its nature-rich environment, strong wellness scene, and slower, more reflective pace of life.

This guide is for those considering a move to Bali who are drawn to culture, community, and a lifestyle centred around nature, creativity, and wellbeing.

Who Ubud Is Best For

For families, creatives, remote workers, and lifestyle seekers considering a move to Bali who are drawn to nature, culture, and a more introspective pace of life.

Why Families Choose Ubud

• Nature-rich surroundings with jungle views and rice fields
• A strong wellness culture with yoga, retreats, and holistic living
• A vibrant arts, culture, and spiritual community
• Slightly cooler climate compared to coastal areas

When Ubud Might Not Be the Best Fit

• You want quick or regular access to the beach
• Jungle humidity and frequent rain may bother you
• You prefer highly modern infrastructure and city-style conveniences

Life in Ubud

Ubud has long been considered the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali — and for many expats, it offers a completely different experience from the island’s coastal hubs.

Set among lush jungle, rice terraces, and traditional villages in the uplands of Gianyar Regency, Ubud attracts those looking for a deeper, more nature-connected lifestyle. The pace here tends to feel slower and more intentional, with daily life often centred around wellness, creativity, and community.

For some relocating families, Ubud feels like the Bali they imagined — green, peaceful, and culturally rich. For others, the distance from the beach, heavier rainfall, and more spread-out layout require careful consideration.

This guide gives you a clear, experience-based look at what it’s really like to live in Ubud, from schools and housing to lifestyle and daily realities so you can decide whether it’s the right fit for your Bali move.

Talk to Us About Living in Ubud

Is Ubud Right for Me?

Ubud tends to attract expats who prioritise lifestyle over convenience. It’s especially popular with families seeking more space, creatives wanting inspiration, and wellness-focused residents drawn to yoga, healing, and nature.

Many people describe Ubud as feeling more grounded and community-oriented than Bali’s coastal hotspots.

What many expats love about Ubud:

  • Lush natural surroundings and rice field views
  • Strong wellness and yoga scene
  • Cooler temperatures than coastal areas
  • Established creative and conscious community
  • More space and greenery for families

What to consider before choosing Ubud:

  • Further from the airport and beaches
  • Traffic can bottleneck in central areas
  • Higher humidity and rainfall in jungle zones
  • Some areas feel remote at night
  • Fewer large international schools than in Canggu

Where is Ubud?

Ubud sits in Bali’s central highlands, about 60–90 minutes from the airport depending on traffic. Rather than one compact town, the greater Ubud area is made up of multiple villages and pockets, each with its own feel.

Central Ubud

The historic heart of town near the markets, palace, and main restaurant strip. It’s walkable and vibrant but also the busiest and most congested area.

Best for short stays or those who want to be in the middle of the action — less popular with long-term families seeking quiet.

Penestanan

Just west of the centre, it attracts creatives, long-term expats, and remote workers.

You’ll find a village vibe with leafy lanes, yoga studios, cafés, and a slightly more residential feel while still being close to town. Popular as it is very walkable, has an eco village and feels more homely.

Nyuh Kuning

A favourite with families and long-term residents, Nyuh Kuning offers a local village atmosphere with good walkability, great cafés and restaurants, and proximity to international schools. There is a great soccer field that brings the community together.

It strikes a balance between community feel and convenience.

Sayan & Mas

Known for luxury villas, jungle views, and a more upscale residential feel. Popular with families wanting space and privacy while staying within reach of central Ubud.

Pejeng

East of Ubud, these outer pockets appeal to families wanting larger plots, quieter surroundings, and better value housing. Expect more driving but also more space and greenery.

Area Snapshot

Area Best For Vibe
Central Ubud Walkability and culture Busy, touristy, vibrant
Penestanan Creatives and remote workers Leafy, artsy, established
Nyuh Kuning Families wanting balance Village feel, community-oriented
Sayan & Mas Space and upscale living Quiet, green, premium
Pejeng Value and nature Spacious, emerging

Schools in Ubud

Ubud has a smaller but well-regarded selection of international and alternative schools, which is often one of the biggest factors families weigh.

Key schools in and around Ubud include:

  • Green School Bali — One of the most well-known schools, Green School Bali offers a holistic, sustainability-focused education set within a unique open-air bamboo campus. The curriculum blends international academics with environmental stewardship, project-based learning, and real-world skills. It’s particularly popular with globally minded families seeking an alternative to more traditional academic pathways.
  • Pelangi School — It’s a long-established international school known for its warm, community-driven atmosphere. With smaller class sizes and a personalised approach, the school places strong emphasis on social-emotional development alongside academics. Many families appreciate its nurturing environment and balanced approach to learning, especially in the early and primary years.
  • Empathy School —  Offers a modern, forward-thinking approach that centres on emotional intelligence, collaboration, and purpose-driven learning. The programme integrates academic foundations with life skills, mindfulness, and project work designed to build confident, self-aware learners. It tends to attract families looking for a more contemporary, child-centred educational philosophy.
  • Wood School Bali — Provides an intimate learning setting with a strong connection to nature and the surrounding environment. With relatively small cohorts, the school focuses on hands-on learning, creativity, and outdoor exploration. It’s often a good fit for families who value a close-knit school community and a gentle, nature-rich early education experience.

Most families aim to keep the school run within 10–25 minutes, depending on where they choose to live. For many relocating families, school choice becomes the key factor in deciding between Ubud and the coastal areas.

Looking for schools in Ubud that fit your budget?

Get the Bali School Guide! Let’s navigate education options with confidence.

Inside the guide, you’ll find:
• 80 School profiles (22 high schools) covering curriculum, fees, facilities, age ranges, and what makes each unique
• Enrollment checklists and school tour questions
• Visa guidance, transport tips, and transition planning
• Clickable Google Map integration to compare locations across Bali
• Real parent insights: what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they knew earlier

Save $10 on Bali School Guide, use SAVE10 upon checkout!

If you’re still unsure which school would be the right fit for your child, we recommend booking a 1-Hour School Deep Dive Consultation with us. We’ll walk you through the realistic options based on your child’s age, learning style, location preferences, and long-term plans — so you leave the session feeling clear, confident, and ready to move forward.

Get the School Guide Now
Book a School Deep Dive

What It’s Like to Live Here

Life in Ubud tends to feel slower, greener, and more intentional.

Mornings often begin with yoga, school runs through rice field roads, or coffee overlooking the jungle. Days revolve around work, creative projects, wellness activities, and community meetups. Evenings are typically quiet — think dinners with friends rather than late-night venues.

Community vibe:

Ubud attracts a diverse mix of long-term expats, young families, creatives, healers, and entrepreneurs. Connections often form through schools, wellness spaces, workshops, and local WhatsApp groups.

Many residents choose Ubud specifically because it feels less transient and more rooted in Balinese culture.

Housing & Accommodation in Ubud

Ubud offers a wide range of villas, jungle homes, and family compounds — often with more space and greenery than coastal areas.

Typical rent ranges (approx):

  • Apartment / Studio: IDR 10–25M/month
  •  2-bedroom villa: IDR 15–35M/month
  •  3-bedroom villa: IDR 30–60M/month
  •  Larger family homes (rural area): IDR 12–25M/month

Lease Options & Supply
Most homes in Ubud are rented on annual leases, which typically offer the best value and widest selection. Monthly rentals do exist — particularly for smaller villas, guesthouses, or serviced properties — but the monthly rate is usually noticeably higher compared to committing to a yearly contract.

Demand in Ubud tends to remain steady throughout the year, driven largely by families, remote workers, and long-term expats who are drawn to the cooler climate, lush surroundings, and strong community feel. Well-maintained family homes in desirable pockets can move quickly, especially ahead of the school year, so it’s wise to start your search early and have your paperwork ready when you find a good fit.

Housing tips for expats:

  • Check access roads — some villas have narrow or steep entry
  • Humidity and ventilation matter in jungle areas (many homes have mold)
  • Internet quality varies by pocket
  • Flood and drainage checks are important in rainy season
  • Expect more creepy crawlies 

Ready to Find a Home You’ll Truly Love?

Finding the right home in Ubud is easier with the right people on your side. Through our Silver Membership, you’ll gain access to our trusted network of Ubud real estate agents and villa management companies.

We start by understanding your housing wishlist — from location and budget to lifestyle preferences — then connect you with partners who can match you with the most suitable options available, saving you time and avoiding unnecessary stress.

Explore our Silver Membership and take the next step toward securing a Ubud home that truly fits your needs.

Explore the Silver Membership

Cost of Living Snapshot

Ubud can offer good value for families wanting more space, though costs vary widely by villa standard and lifestyle.

Estimated monthly costs for a family of four:

Category Estimated Monthly
Rent (2-3 BR Villa) IDR 20–40M
School fees IDR 12–25M
Scooter rental IDR 1–1.5M
Groceries IDR 7–10M
Eating out IDR 5-8M
House staff IDR 2–4M

Note: In general, living in Ubud tends to be a bit more affordable than Canggu or Sanur. However, costs can creep up if you regularly rely on imported products or frequent delivery services.

Want help understanding what these costs really look like for your family?

Our Bronze Membership includes a detailed Bali Cost of Living Guide, designed to help families budget realistically and avoid common surprises when relocating.

Explore the Silver Membership

Traffic & Getting Around

While quieter than the southwest overall, central Ubud can experience congestion, especially midday and early evening.

Transport insights:

  • Scooters are still the most efficient
  • Many families use cars for school runs
  • Ride apps are available, but slower in outer areas
  • Living close to school and daily needs makes a big difference
Learn more about transport in Bali

Pros & Cons for Expats

Pros

  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Strong wellness and creative community
  • Cooler climate than the coast
  • More space for families
  • Deep cultural atmosphere (more than anywhere else)

Cons

  • Further from beaches and airport
  • Central traffic bottlenecks
  • Higher humidity in jungle areas
  • Fewer large international schools
  • Some areas feel remote at night
  • More creepy crawlies

Real Family Stories living in Ubud

Spanish expat family in Ubud

Every move to Ubud is unique. Some families arrive with young children, others with teenagers, creative projects, remote work commitments, or a desire for a slower, more intentional lifestyle. While guides and planning tools are helpful, many people tell us that hearing from those who have already made the move makes the experience feel far more real.

Our Family & Expat Stories feature Our Year in Bali clients who are now living in Ubud. These are real families and individuals we’ve supported through the relocation process — from early planning and school considerations to settling into life in Bali’s cultural and wellness heart.

Inside these stories, you’ll find honest insights into schooling options, daily routines, work-life balance, community connections, and what long-term life in Ubud actually looks like. They go beyond the highlights to show the rhythms of everyday life surrounded by nature, culture, and a slower pace.

If you’re considering a move to Ubud, these stories can help you better picture what life might feel like and give you the confidence to take the next step.

Explore Our Expat Stories in Ubud
Watch Family & Expat Stories on YouTube

Relocation Support

Families work with us at many different stages of their journey — from early research through to settling into everyday family life in Bali.

Each year, we support hundreds of families as they navigate the practical realities of relocating, including visas, housing, schooling, healthcare, and household support. Every family’s situation is different, which is why we offer three tailored Relocation Memberships, starting from $375 USD, designed to support you at every stage of your move.

While it’s ideal to begin planning 12 months in advance, it’s never too late to start — even if timelines have shifted or decisions need to be made quickly. Our memberships provide clarity, structure, and trusted guidance so your family can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

View Relocation Memberships

Stories from Our Clients Living in Ubud

Austrian Family Finds a Slower, More Intentional Life in Ubud

Thomas and his family left Austria in search of something different — a calmer, healthier environment where their young son could grow, learn, and thrive. After months of careful planning, they chose Ubud for its family-friendly lifestyle, strong international education options, and sense of community.

Now settled in Pejeng, Ubud, they’ve embraced a more grounded daily rhythm centred around school routines, nature, and quality time together. What began as a thoughtful relocation for their child’s future has become the start of a new chapter shaped by balance, connection, and a slower pace of life.

Read Their Full Story Here
Watch Their Story on YouTube

New York Expat Finds Healing and Purpose in Ubud

Claudia and her partner Andy left behind the fast pace of life in the U.S. to begin a more grounded chapter in Ubud. After years of living in overstimulating cities, they were drawn to Bali for its slower rhythm, natural beauty, and the sense of space it offered for healing, creativity, and a more intentional way of living.

Now based in Ubud, they’re building a life centred around wellness, community, and purpose. From jungle mornings and meaningful work to creating a meditation and retreat space, their move has become more than a relocation; it’s a lifestyle shift rooted in alignment, presence, and a deeper connection to how they want to live.

Read Their Full Story Here

New York Family Embraces Nature-Led Living

Alee and her family made the bold move from the United States to Ubud seeking a more intentional lifestyle and an alternative education path for their children. Their decision was strongly influenced by the opportunity to enroll at Green School and immerse their kids in outdoor, project-based learning.

Living just outside central Ubud in a jungle eco-village, they found the balance they were hoping for — access to world-class wellness, rich Balinese culture, and a close-knit village feel where children still play freely outdoors. The experience, while occasionally challenging, has helped the family reset their priorities and lean into a slower, more conscious way of living.

Read Alee's Full Story Here

Dutch Family Finds Their Rhythm in the Rice Fields

Leontine and Lennaert relocated from Amsterdam with their two young sons, searching for more nature, outdoor living, and meaningful family time. They ultimately chose Ubud’s countryside, where their home sits in a quiet Balinese village surrounded by rice fields — a setting that feels both peaceful and connected.

What surprised them most was how quickly their community formed through their children’s school, where friendships with other international families developed naturally. Today, their days revolve around school runs, outdoor play, and a slower family rhythm that feels very different from their previous city life.

Read their full story

Australian Couple Starts Fresh in Ubud

Charlotte and Dan left Sydney and sold nearly everything they owned to begin a new chapter in Ubud. Drawn by the area’s lush environment, creative energy, and strong wellness culture, they were looking for a lifestyle that felt more intentional and aligned with their values.

Now building remote businesses from their Ubud base, they’ve embraced a daily rhythm centred around movement, nature, and flexible work. What began as a temporary move has evolved into a longer-term plan, with Bali offering both the breathing room and inspiration they were seeking.

Read Their Full Story Here

Book a Free Discovery Call

If you’d prefer to talk things through first, you’re welcome to book a free 30-minute Discovery Call.

This call is a relaxed space to ask questions, discuss your timeline, and understand what support might be right for you. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of Bali or already preparing to move, we’re here to help you build a life that feels intentional and sustainable.

Book a Free Call Now

Get your FREE Move to Bali Checklist

Planning a move to Bali with children comes with a lot of moving parts, and it’s normal to feel unsure about where to start or what to prioritise.

This free checklist is designed to bring everything together in one place. It walks you through the key considerations expats need to think about when relocating to Bali, so you can plan your move with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re in the early research phase or already preparing to relocate, this guide helps you step back, see the full picture, and move forward in a way that feels organised and manageable.

Fill in the form below to receive your free Bali Family Relocation Checklist and start planning your move with clarity and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bali a safe place to raise children?

This is one of the first questions most parents ask, and understandably so. Bali is generally considered a safe place for families, with many international families living here long term. Like anywhere, there are things to be aware of — traffic and road safety, health precautions, and choosing the right area to live.

We place a strong focus on helping families feel informed and prepared around safety. As part of our Bronze Membership, we take time to walk through everyday safety considerations, health planning, and practical realities so there are no surprises once you arrive. With the right information and local understanding, most families feel comfortable and confident in their day-to-day life here.

You can explore more about healthcare, safety, and preventative planning on our Healthcare & Safety page, or learn how we support families in depth through our Bronze Membership.

Do children need special visas to live in Bali?

Children can be on a variety of visa types depending on how long your family plans to stay and which visa the parents hold. It’s also important to note that some international schools require children to hold a KITAS, which may be either a student KITAS or a dependent KITAS. This is something families often need to consider early, as it can influence both visa choices and timelines.

The main documents typically required for children include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and a birth certificate. Understanding which visa structure best fits your family’s plans early on can help avoid unnecessary changes or delays later.

We cover these options in detail during our free discovery call. If you decide to move forward, our Silver Membership allows us to introduce you directly to our trusted visa agents and help get the process started with the most suitable visa for your family, so you can move ahead with clarity and confidence.

How early should we apply for schools?

This depends on the school. Some international schools have waitlists and application timelines of 6+ months, while others are more flexible. Some age and year levels are more popular than others, for example, primary school ages are more popular than high school. We always recommend researching schools early, as this can influence both timing and where you choose to live.

Is it easy to hire a nanny in Bali?

Many families successfully hire nannies or household helpers in Bali, but the process can look a bit different depending on how you approach it. Some families find help through word of mouth or recommendations from other parents in their school communities and online. Others use local Facebook or WhatsApp groups, or work with nanny and household staffing agencies.

While there are plenty of options, finding the right fit takes thoughtful communication about expectations, daily routines, working arrangements, and fair compensation. Understanding local norms and setting clear boundaries from the start also helps create a positive and sustainable working relationship.

For a deeper look at how many families approach this, practical tips, and things to consider before you hire, check out our full guide on hiring a nanny in Bali.

What healthcare options are available for children?

Families usually rely on a mix of local clinics and international hospitals, depending on the situation. Pediatric care, routine check-ups, and emergency services are readily available in the main areas where families tend to live.

Many parents arrive with understandable concerns about healthcare, but are often pleasantly surprised by the quality of care and level of service in Bali. In many cases, families find healthcare to be accessible, responsive, and more affordable than they expected — especially for everyday medical needs.

Understanding the difference between travel insurance and long-term health insurance is an important part of planning your move. You can read more here to understand the key differences and what to consider.

As part of our Silver Membership, we can also introduce you to trusted, Bali-based insurers who help you secure coverage that fits your family’s needs.

Will we be able to find community as a family?

For most families, community builds naturally over time. Many connections form through schools, children’s activities, sports clubs, and everyday routines. While it can take a little time to settle in, families are often surprised by how quickly friendships begin to form.

Bali has a large and supportive international family community, with many groups and networks centred around shared interests and similar life stages. As part of Our Year in Bali, families also have access to our private community channel, where we share helpful resources and connect families who are navigating a similar move.

You can read more about how to find your perfect family-friendly community in Bali here. If you’d like to talk through what building a support network could look like for your family, we’d be happy to help. Simply book a free 30-minute discovery call with us.

Find the Right Membership for Your Move

More Services

Book a Consultation Instead of a Full Package?

Our consultation service is perfect if you:

  • Want answers to specific questions without committing to a full relocation package
  • Need expert guidance at a specific stage of your journey
  • Prefer to handle the move yourself, but want insider knowledge
  • We are already in Bali and need targeted advice
  • Want to validate your plans before making big decisions
Book a personalized consultation

Looking for schools in Bali that fit your budget?

Get the Bali School Guide! Let’s navigate education options with confidence.

Inside the guide, you’ll find:
• 80 School profiles (22 high schools) covering curriculum, fees, facilities, age ranges, and what makes each unique
• Enrollment checklists and school tour questions
• Visa guidance, transport tips, and transition planning
• Clickable Google Map integration to compare locations across Bali
• Real parent insights: what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they knew earlier

Get the School Guide Now

Book a School Deep Dive Zoom Session

Spend one hour with Bali relocation expert and education consultant Simone Collins, who has visited and built strong relationships with many of the island’s leading schools. In this personalised session, you’ll get:

  • Tailored recommendations based on your child’s age, needs, and interests
  • Introductions to principals and current parents for firsthand insights
  • Guidance on neighbourhood choice based on commuting and community fit
  • Access to our trusted network of school contacts and relocation resources
Book a School Deep Dive
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