Living in Bali: Best Areas for Expats in 2024
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Bali is a top location for expatriates to move in and start a new life since it offers a wide range of beaches, entertainment, international schools, and peaceful nature retreats.
Bali offers a unique blend of culture, affordability, and a welcoming local and international community, making it a new heaven for expats who seek a vibrant life in Indonesia.
This guide will help those expatriates to find a place in Bali, based on the property’s affordability, amenities, and ambiance. Each area has pros and cons, so consider carefully which area you want to live in as an expatriate in Bali.
1. Canggu
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This trendy coast has been popular among expatriates in Bali since 2022, right after the pandemic, and has rapidly grown into a vibrant community of expatriates in Bali. Canggu has many international-scale restaurants, cafes, various fitness centers, and other attractions such as surfing spots at the famous beaches of Batu Bolong Beach, Echo Beach, and Berawa Beach.
Canggu is a great place for those who seek a balance between work and fun. The international community in Canggu is thriving, so it's easy for expatriates in Bali to find like-minded people, without a hurdle.
Canggu boasts a wide range of property selections for expatriates, ranging from a co-living apartment to a luxury villa. Contact us to find your dream home in Canggu.
Things to highlight: As Canggu has become a hotspot for youngsters, there is a place that caters to your loved ones' needs such as an international school and kid club, all nearby at a relatively fair price. Not to mention that various restaurants around Canggu serve global tastes.
2. Seminyak
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Seminyak is an excellent choice for an expat looking for a place to live in Bali and desiring a luxury neighborhood. Located on the west coast of Bali, it is renowned for its five-star hotels, luxury spas, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches where sunsets can be enjoyed. Popular spots like Potato Head attract many young people with their wide range of food, creative cocktails, and stunning beach views. Additionally, the bustling streets of Seminyak are always full of life, offering plenty of entertainment and restaurants. This makes it a great area to live as an expat in Bali.
The property price is the the highest in Bali, but, it covers a wide range of villa selections in Seminyak mainly luxury villas with an ample location in the bustling area of Seminyak.
Things to highlight: Seminyak is famously known for its bustling streets, in this area, you will find vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and many more entertainment options.
3. Sanur
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Sanur is crowned as the gem in the east coast area of Bali due to its beautiful beaches. Sanur's relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the beach make it a hit with retirees and families looking for a comfortable place to live.
The expatriate community in this area is established there is an international school nearby as well. This charming seaside town is a relaxed place with a strong expat community, especially families. With a calm beach, great water sports, and many restaurants serving international food, Sanur offers a comfortable and convenient base, as well as a mix of diverse property types such as luxury beachside villas and apartment complexes.
Even though it's grown more popular, this area still has a chill village vibe. This makes it a favorite spot for expats who want to relax and slow things down.
In Sanur, the property market has a lot of collection designs, starting from classic ones to modern designs, see our Sanur property collection here.
Things to highlight: Sanur is known for its calm atmosphere since it is located in the east coast area of Bali which is not exposed to much tourism, the good thing is, that Sanur provides the tranquility of traditional Bali living.
4. Ubud
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This town, surrounded by rice paddies and temples, is the heart of Balinese art and culture. With famous museums, traditional dances, and world-class yoga retreats, it attracts a more established expat community. Life moves slower here, allowing you to experience Balinese traditions more deeply. Famously known as the place where traditional Balinese culture is rooted deeply, Ubud is the home of many artistic museums and Balinese traditional palaces.
The property market in Ubud varies from a tropical luxury home with a rice field view and the upscale ones in an exclusive area, see our collection.
Though it's located in the middle of Bali, Ubud has an established expatriate in the Bali community whereas an international school is also available here. Also, Ubud is the best place to live with kids.
Things to highlight: Ubud has many cafes and restaurants with a catching green rice paddy field view, however, the nightlife is not as vibrant as those in the southern area. Hence, rather is a suitable place for those who seek tranquility in Bali.
5. Uluwatu
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Uluwatu is not your average Bali place. Located in the southern area of Bali, Uluwatu is blessed with its amazing Indian Ocean view. With an ample location and various choices of entertainment (as well as a world-class beach club, Savaya), Uluwatu is also a recommended place to live as an expatriate in Bali.
The property market in Uluwatu ranges from an upscale villa to a luxury beachfront villa, see our listing in Uluwatu to pick your dream home.
Things to highlight: Uluwatu offers stunning beaches, a laid-back vibe, and a welcoming expat community.
Bali offers a unique living experience to those who come to the island, whether it's to live or just a short vacation, everybody wants to go back to Bali. This guide has provided a foundation for you to make an informed decision about where to establish your home in Bali, considering your individual preferences.
Have you been inspired to explore the possibility of living in Bali? We possess a comprehensive selection of villas in popular locations like Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Sanur, and Ubud.
See our listing now and schedule a meeting with our talented sales team to secure your dream Bali home
