Living in Ubud, Bali, means trading beaches for jungles, surfboards for yoga mats, and fast-paced bustle for slow, soulful living. Often described as the island’s cultural and spiritual heart, Ubud attracts families, creatives, and wellness enthusiasts looking for a deeper connection to nature and community.
For families moving to Ubud, Bali, the draw lies in its lush surroundings, holistic education options, and sense of belonging — all while still being just an hour from Denpasar’s conveniences. It’s a haven for those who value balance, creativity, and meaningful connection over constant motion.
Neighbourhood Overview
Ubud is made up of several distinct neighbourhoods, each offering its own vibe, pace, and lifestyle. Whatever the preference, there’s a pocket of Ubud to suit every preference.
Penestanan
- Leafy enclave west of central Ubud with artistic roots and jungle views
- Ideal for couples and smaller families seeking quiet, walkable paths
- Boutique villas and cosy cafés throughout the area
- Features eco villages
- Coworking (OutPost)
Nyuh Kuning
- Family-friendly neighbourhood behind the Monkey Forest
- Safe, easy to get around streets, cafés, restaurants, soccer field, and close to schools
- Strong mix of expat and local community
- Coworking (OutPost)
Sayan & Mas
- Sayan offers riverside villas and high-end accommodations
- Mas blends traditional village life with modern comforts
- Both are within easy reach of central Ubud
- Recreations clubs, tennis, gyms
- International schools
Pejeng
- Rural favourite with larger properties and range of rental prices
- International schools
- Strong sense of community
- Perfect for families or long-term residents seeking space and tranquility
Lifestyle & Community
Ubud lifestyle and culture revolve around wellness, creativity, and connection. Expect days filled with yoga, local markets, nature walks, and community events rather than malls or nightclubs.
Families often describe family life in Ubud Bali as simple yet enriching. Kids grow up surrounded by nature, learning to appreciate local customs while making friends from around the world.
You’ll find:
- Cafés & Restaurants: Ubud’s culinary scene is thriving, offering a diverse array of dining experiences. From renowned plant-based establishments like Alchemy and Moksa, to cosy Indonesian warungs and fine dining with jungle views, there’s something for every palate.
- Community Life: Weekly farmers’ markets, workshops, and children’s playgroups foster a genuine sense of belonging.
- Wellness & Creativity: Yoga studios, dance classes, and art workshops for all ages abound. It’s no wonder Ubud is a hub for digital nomads and families seeking a more mindful pace.
Housing & Accommodation
Ubud housing rentals vary widely depending on proximity to the centre and view. You’ll find traditional-style open living homes, minimalist villas, luxurious villas, and a few modern apartments scattered through the lush landscape.
| Property Type | Monthly Rent (Approx.) |
| 1-bedroom villa | IDR 10 – 25 million |
| 2-bedroom villa | IDR 15 – 35 million |
| 3-bedroom villa | IDR 30 – 60 million |
| Family house (rural area) | IDR 12 – 25 million |
Note: Many homes are offered on annual leases, with some smaller villas available monthly. Rental prices vary significantly depending on proximity to the centre, access roads, proximity to international schools and view quality. Expect higher rates for the scenic rice-field or jungle vistas.
Types of Properties
- Villas: The most common rental type in Ubud. Often open-air, with gardens and views of rice terraces or jungle valleys.
- Family homes: Found in nearby areas like Pejeng or Mas; offer larger plots and quieter surroundings.
- Apartments and studios: Limited but growing in central Ubud, mainly catering to singles or couples.
Lease Options & Supply
- Most homes are rented on annual leases, with monthly options available for smaller villas or guesthouses but will be more per month.
- Demand is steady year-round, especially among families and long-term expats who prefer the cooler climate and community feel.
Practical Considerations
- Accessibility: Some homes sit deep within rice fields. It’s scenic but less practical for daily commuting or school runs.
- Noise & traffic: Central Ubud can get very busy, especially around Monkey Forest and Penestanan; quieter living is found on the outskirts.
- Flooding: Check road conditions carefully, as heavy rain can make rural access challenging.
- Maintenance: Because of humidity and wildlife, regular upkeep (gardens, pest control, and waterproofing) is essential.
Tip: If you’re seeking space and value, explore Ubud neighbourhoods like Pejeng or Sayan. Just a short ride from the centre but surrounded by greenery and serenity.
Schools & Family Life
Families moving to Ubud Bali have a growing selection of international schools in Ubud, alongside alternative learning centres and eco-conscious programs.
Some notable options include:
- Green School Bali – Globally recognised for sustainability and open-air bamboo campus.
- Pelangi School – A creative, community-based school promoting holistic education.
- Wood School – where the spirit of Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia meets the heart of Neohumanist education.
- Empathy School – Inclusive and values-led education for children up to 14 years.
Family life in Ubud goes beyond schooling:
- Community-oriented living: Families often settle in neighbourhoods with other expats and local families, creating strong social networks and support systems.
- Nature and outdoor activities: Ubud’s lush rice fields, river valleys, and walking paths provide ample opportunities for children to play, explore, and engage with the environment.
- Health and wellness focus: From yoga for kids to family-friendly organic cafés and wellness centres, many families integrate a holistic lifestyle into daily routines.
- Cultural enrichment: Traditional ceremonies, arts workshops, and community events offer children and parents a chance to connect with Balinese culture in meaningful ways.
Traffic & Transport
While distances in Ubud are generally short, narrow roads can get congested around the town centre, especially during school hours, religious ceremonies, or heavy rain.
- To Airport: 1.5-2 hours (37-42 km)
- To Canggu: ~2 hours
- To Seminyak: ~2 hours
- To Sanur: 1-1.5 hours
- To Gianyar: 20-30 minutes
- Transport: Scooters are the most common choice, ideal for navigating narrow streets. Cars are practical for families, especially with children, though parking can be limited in central areas and slower commute times. Drivers can also be hired for daily routines or school runs.
If you’re moving to Ubud with kids, living near schools, workplaces, or the town centre can make daily life and commutes much easier, particularly during ceremonies or the rainy season when roads may slow down.
Cost of Living Snapshot
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (Family of 4) |
| Rent (2-3 BR villa) | IDR 20 – 40 million |
| School fees | IDR 12 – 25 million |
| Groceries | IDR 7 – 10 million |
| Scooter rental | IDR 1 – 1.2 million |
| House staff | IDR 2 – 4 million |
| Dining out | IDR 5 – 8 million |
Note: Overall, living in Ubud Bali is slightly more affordable than Canggu or Sanur, though imported goods and delivery services can add to monthly expenses.
Pros & Cons Summary
Pros:
- Lush natural surroundings and cool climate
- Strong expat and creative communities
- Excellent wellness and holistic education options
- Affordable compared to the south
Cons:
- No beaches (though waterfalls and rivers abound)
- Narrow roads and occasional traffic bottlenecks
- Humidity and occasional mould in older homes
Who Ubud Is Best For
- Families with children: Safe, peaceful neighbourhoods and schools in eco-conscious communities.
- Wellness seekers: Yoga, meditation, spas, and organic living at every turn.
- Remote professionals & digital nomads: Reliable Wi-Fi, coworking cafés, and a calm work-life balance.
- Creatives & artists: Inspiring landscapes and a thriving arts scene.
- Eco-conscious expats: Sustainable living and nature-focused communities.
- Retirees seeking tranquillity: Quiet streets and a slower pace of life.
- Those valuing community: Tight-knit networks and cultural or wellness meet-ups.
Relocation Tip from Our Year in Bali
Before moving to Ubud Bali, take time to explore each neighbourhood — from Penestanan’s artistic enclaves to Nyuh Kuning’s community charm — to find what truly aligns with your lifestyle and schooling needs.
That’s where Our Year in Bali comes in. Founded by relocation expert Simone Collins, providing personalised guidance for families at every stage of their move; from choosing schools to finding homes and navigating visas and health insurance.
For an even deeper understanding of life in Ubud and beyond, Book a Free Consultation to get tailored advice and start planning your new life in Bali’s green heart.
