Why People Move to Bali

For decades, Bali has captivated people worldwide with its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordable lifestyle.

What was once a surfer’s paradise has evolved into a global relocation hotspot, attracting remote workers, entrepreneurs, retirees, and families alike.

Moving to Bali offers a change of scenery, on top of a lifestyle shift. Many are drawn by the island’s wellness culture, thriving expat community, and slower pace of life. Others come seeking investment opportunities in Bali property, where villas and lifestyle residences offer both personal enjoyment and long-term value.

Whatever the motivation, the dream of living in Bali is increasingly becoming a practical reality for thousands each year.

Understanding the Real Cost of Living in Bali

One of the biggest appeals of moving to Bali is the cost of living compared to major cities abroad.

Daily essentials like food, local transportation, and household help are relatively affordable, while lifestyle choices such as dining at international restaurants or sending children to international schools, can quickly increase expenses.

On average, a single person can live comfortably on USD 1,200-2,000 per month, while families may budget USD 2,500-4,000 depending on housing and schooling needs. The wide range reflects Bali’s flexibility: you can live modestly in a local-style home or indulge in luxury villas with private pools and modern amenities.

For investors, these cost dynamics matter. Affordable daily living combined with high demand for villa rentals maintains Bali’s attractiveness not only to expats but also to long-term tenants and tourists, driving steady property returns.

Choosing the Best Area to Call Home

Bali has it all. Each area offers a distinct lifestyle:

Seminyak – Known for its dining, nightlife, and beach clubs, ideal for those seeking cosmopolitan living.

Canggu – A hub for hip influencers, digital nomads, surf culture, and trendy cafés.

Ubud – Bali’s cultural and spiritual center, surrounded by rice fields and wellness retreats.

Sanur – Family-friendly, with calm beaches and growing medical tourism facilities.

Uluwatu – Cliffside villas, surf breaks, and quieter living.

The right choice depends on your lifestyle goals, whether it’s networking with entrepreneurs, enjoying a wellness-focused retreat, or embracing vibrant city living.

For many expats, Seminyak remains the most balanced option, combining accessibility, cultural vibrancy, and strong long-term real estate value.

Visa and Legal Essentials for a Smooth Move

Before moving to Bali, it’s crucial to understand visa options and legal requirements. The most common visas include:

Visa on Arrival (VoA): Valid for 30 days and extendable for another 30.

Tourist Visa (B211A): Valid up to 60 days, with multiple extensions.

KITAS: Limited stay permit for those working, investing, or retiring in Bali.

Second Home Visa: For long-term residents with financial proof, designed for lifestyle and investment migration.

Compliance is highly important. Overstaying visas or working illegally can result in heavy fines or deportation.

Investors looking at Bali real estate should also understand ownership structures, typically leasehold titles or setting up a PT PMA for freehold-equivalent rights. This is where professional guidance ensures your Bali relocation remains secure and hassle-free.

What Daily Life in Bali Really Looks Like

Living in Bali has more of an appeal to it than just beautiful beaches, the island’s lifestyle is all about embracing a new rhythm. Mornings might start with yoga overlooking rice terraces, afternoons spent working from a co-working café, and evenings dining at one of Seminyak’s renowned restaurants. Weekends are filled with surfing trips, temple visits, or quiet family time in private villas.

The island also offers practical conveniences: international schools, growing healthcare facilities, and high-speed internet in most urban centers. Yet, challenges exist too, such as traffic congestion in popular areas or occasional infrastructure gaps. Still, for many, these are outweighed by the island’s sense of community, creativity, and natural beauty.

Renting vs Buying Property in Bali

One of the first decisions for those moving to Bali is whether to rent or buy.

Renting offers flexibility, particularly for newcomers testing different areas before committing long-term. Villas can be rented monthly or yearly, with costs ranging from modest local homes to luxury estates.

Buying, however, provides both lifestyle stability and investment upside. With Bali’s tourism-driven economy, villas in prime locations often deliver strong rental yields while appreciating in value.

Foreigners typically purchase through leasehold agreements or by setting up a PT PMA company. While renting is simple, buying secures a stake in Bali’s growing property market, a move many long-term expats eventually make.

How Pertama Property Helps You Start Your Dream Life

Turning the dream of moving to Bali into a secure reality requires the right partner.

Pertama Property bridges aspiration and practical execution by developing and managing villas that combine design, legal compliance, and investment potential.

Casaverde Residence – A Mediterranean-inspired sanctuary for serene living.

ELLE Villas Seminyak – A branded collaboration merging fashion-forward design with prime Seminyak lifestyle.

Beraban Luxury Lofts – A luxury urban loft concept that combines sophisticated city living with sustainable finishes.

Abadi Residence – Eco-conscious villas designed for consistent rental yields.

Each project reflects Pertama Property’s commitment to delivering not just villas, but lifestyle-driven investments. For those relocating, this means peace of mind: legally sound ownership, professional management, and homes that elevate daily life in Bali.

Moving to Bali is both a lifestyle dream and a financial opportunity. From understanding the cost of living and visas to deciding where to live and whether to rent or buy, preparation is the key to a smooth relocation. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and investment potential, Bali continues to attract those ready to build a life.

Contact Pertama Property today to explore how our projects turn the vision of moving to Bali into a tangible, secure, and rewarding reality.

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