Areas to live in Bali - Our Year in Bali

Bali is a beautiful island in Indonesia, located just east of Java and west of Lombok, in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago. The island is divided by volcanic mountains east-west with river gorges running north-south.

Key points about living in Bali:

South Bali is the most developed area
Different coasts offer unique experiences – western sides have sunsets, eastern sides have early sunrises
Each area has its own distinct character, catering to different preferences
There’s a strong expat community throughout the island with people from diverse backgrounds around the world
Travel times are longer than maps suggest due to a variety of reasons such as rice fields, small lanes, and heavy traffic
Living in a developing country means occasional challenges with power, infrastructure, and communication

Here are the most popular areas in Bali where foreigners love to live: Badung (including North, South, and Central), the Bukit Peninsula, Gianyar, and Denpasar.

If you want to understand different areas and what they have to offer, including the positives and negatives, cost of living, the best schools, community and facilities for a family, have a read about how our services can help.

Badung

Canggu

Canggu and its surrounding areas attract a younger, trendier crowd, including entrepreneurs, digital nomads, families, and couples. While beach-side Canggu was once a small fishing village, it now encompasses several villages, such as Berawa, Batu Bolong, Babakan and Padonan.

As Canggu becomes more crowded and expensive, expats are exploring nearby quieter areas like Pererenan, Tumbak Bayuh, Seseh Beach, Cemagi and Nyanyi beach, which offer more tranquil settings.

Apart from being beachside, the region with a great buzz, boasts amazing cafes, restaurants, yoga studios, gyms, clubs, coworking spaces, supermarkets, 24/7 medical clinics, international schools and child care, nurseries and so much more.

Meet the Expats Living Here

Umalas, Kerobokan, Seminyak

About 15 minutes from the heart of Canggu is a lovely quiet neighbourhood called the Umalas. Strategically located inland between Petitinget, Seminyak and Canggu, the overall area known as Kerobokan, includes Umalas village (Umalas 1 & 2) and Banjar Semer. It is centrally located and because it is inland and away from the beach, it is not a popular tourist area, however there are still some Airbnb’s and holiday rentals.

Umalas also has wonderful cafes, restaurants, yoga studios, gyms, supermarkets, medical clinics, international schools and child care, nurseries and much more.

Kerobokan seamlessly integrates with the well-known Seminyak area, offering a mix of experiences. Close to Seminyak, some parts of Kerobokan share similarities, while others maintain a local atmosphere and retain lush rice paddies. It’s a favoured location for long-term Bali expats who wish to be near top restaurants and beaches without the hustle and bustle of larger crowds.

Some expats may also find living in the popular tourist zones of Seminyak, Petitenget, and Legian appealing, as they offer quieter alternatives amidst busy Canggu and beyond.

Meet the Expats Living Here

Bukit Peninsula

People often refer to this area as Uluwatu but in fact, it is just a small part of it! The most southerly point and picturesque area of Bali is the Bukit Peninsula with its stunning landscapes, incredible beaches and beautiful water, attracting some serious surfers.

A diverse expat community in the Bukit Peninsula comprises of Ungasan and Pecatu (the centre of Uluwatu), Pandawa, Kampial, Jimbaran, Bingin, and Uluwatu. The community is not just surfers, but also families and those draw to health, yoga, and conscious living.

This area really promotes a sport and active lifestyle! It also has some amazing cafes, restaurants, yoga studios, gyms, supermarkets, local markets, coworking spaces, medical clinics, preschools, child care, nurseries and much more.

This region is much drier than the rest of the island and is an upmarket destination on the island.

Learn more about living in Uluwatu

Meet the Expats Living Here

Gianyar

Ubud, acclaimed as the heart and soul of Bali, offers a unique and spiritually rich environment. Surrounded by nature, including rice fields, rivers, and jungle, Ubud serves as the island’s cultural and artistic center. With a slower pace, a thriving healthy food scene, and a diverse expat community, Ubud appeals to retirees, singles, couples, and families.

Ubud can be very hilly compared to flat Sanur and Canggu. The area is divided into North and South Ubud, attracting nature lovers, yogis, and art enthusiasts. Note this region is far from beaches so not recommended for regular surfers.

Popular neighbourhoods include Desa Kumbuh, Pengosekan, Silakarang, Penestanan, and Nyuh Kuning. Rental prices have increased in recent years, and less traffic is usually found south of the Ubud center, making areas like MAS and Nyuh Kuning attractive choices for expats.

This area also has amazing cafes, restaurants, yoga studios, gyms, supermarkets, local markets, coworking spaces, clubs, medical clinics, great nature-based international schools and child care, nurseries and much more.

Learn more about living in Ubud

Meet the Expats Living Here

Denpasar

The most popular area in this region is Sanur. Situated on the south-eastern tip of Bali, Sanur is about a 30-minute drive away from the airport.

It offers a quieter, laid-back beach town experience compared to the trendier Canggu. It’s a popular choice for Australian and European retirees, along with a growing mix of expats and families from around the world.

While it’s not as trendy as Canggu, Sanur has a welcoming, local vibe, a good food scene, and a focus on bicycle riding. The town is well-organised, with less traffic than the likes of Canggu, allowing for easy bicycle rides or to scooter.

Sanur is divided into two main areas, beachside or on the western side of the main road, known as the bypass.

Sanur also boasts cafes, yoga studios, gyms, supermarkets, and is close to hospitals. Its calm, reef-protected beach is ideal for swimming with kids, and from Sanur Harbour, you can easily explore nearby islands Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida.

Apart from Sanur being super friendly and safe, you can ride a bike, jog or push a pram along the white-sandy beach with a 7km dedicated wide pathway. Along the beach, it is a fun place to grab either a western, or traditional bite to eat or even fresh fish just caught.

The Icon Bali Mall, is a another addition to enhance the town’s amenities as well as the Sanur International Hospital.

Learn more about living in Sanur

Meet the Expats Living Here

The Bali Relocation Handbook: Your All-in-One Moving Guide

Bali offers endless opportunities for those seeking a new home, whether for a short stay or a long-term move. Each region has its own rhythm and charm, from Ubud’s lush jungle serenity to the beach lifestyle of the Bukit Peninsula and the slower pace of East Bali.

With so many beautiful areas to choose from, deciding where to settle can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

Our Bronze Package includes the Bali Relocation Handbook your essential companion for a smooth, successful move.

Inside, you’ll find over 40 detailed chapters covering everything from neighbourhood insights and housing options to visas, finances, healthcare, culture, schooling, and insider expat tips you won’t find anywhere else.

More than just a relocation manual, it’s a trusted guide you’ll turn to before, during, and after your move, helping you feel confident and connected every step of the way.

Many of our clients affectionately call it their “Bali Bible”, and once you start reading, you’ll see why.

Ready to start your Bali journey?
Get the Bali Relocation Handbook or book a Free Call to chat about which area is right for you.

Explore the Bronze Package

Book a Free Call