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Mostly popular as a tourist destination, Bali is now also being recognised for its education worldwide. It’s a great choice for students who want to experience a different culture and enjoy natural beauty during their education. But how much does it cost to live in this tropical paradise as a student in 2024? In this blog, we will discover the cost of living in Bali, covering expenses like accommodation, food, transportation etc. Whether you are planning to study for a semester, a year, or longer, this guide will help you prepare for your adventure and make the most of your time there. Read on to know more!
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Why Choose to Live and Study in Bali?
We mean, who won’t want to, right? The Indonesian province is more affordable than the Western countries, costing US$500-$1,000/month for a single person. It is also home to several world’s top universities that offer various degree programs in English. Bali is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush rice paddies, volcanic mountains, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters. Studying in such an idyllic environment can be incredibly inspiring and enriching, offering a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The essence and influence of Hindu culture can be seen in its traditional dance performances, intricate temple architecture, and colourful ceremonies. Beyond academics, there’s a plethora of activities and pursuits like surfing, diving, hiking, yoga and so on for you to relax and enjoy.
Also Read: A Guide on Cost of Living in Indonesia
Cost of Living in Bali
The cost of living in Bali covers the basic expenses for international students, such as living accommodation, food, entertainment, utilities, and transportation. Let’s see how much each of these aspects contributes to the monthly living cost on the island:
Accommodation
Accommodation in Bali can be rented for as low as $50/month. With different types of living quarters available for students, here’s how much they will add to your overall living expenses:
| Type of Accommodation | Monthly Cost (in USD) |
| Shared rooms in hostels or homestays | $50/month |
| Basic studio apartments | $150-200/month |
| 1-bedroom apartment in areas like Canggu or Seminyak | $300-500/month |
| Villas with Pools | $500-1,000/month |
Food
This cost of living in Bali comes up to $100-300/month. Usually, you can get access to delicious local cuisines in Bali starting from $1-2 at the small warungs (shops). If you plan on making your meals from scratch, then here’s how much groceries from local markets:
| Grocery Item | Price (in USD) |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | $1.62 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $1.43 |
| Rice (white), (1 kg) | $1.04 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | $1.54 |
| Local Cheese (1 kg) | $10.62 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | $4.13 |
| Apples (1 kg) | $2.95 |
| Banana (1 kg) | $1.70 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | $2.15 |
| Tomato (1 kg) | $1.89 |
| Potato (1 kg) | $1.73 |
| Onion (1 kg) | $2.16 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | $0.92 |
| Water (1.5 litre bottle) | $0.60 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | $19.25 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 litre bottle) | $2.16 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) | $2.71 |
Western restaurants and cafes will be more expensive, with meals costing around $5-10. Fine dining experiences at high-end restaurants can be pricey, with meals costing upwards of $50.
Entertainment
Bali has no lack of entertainment or leisure activities for anyone, of that you can be sure. Here’s how much different modes of entertainment will affect your cost of living in Bali as a single student:
| Mode of Entertainment | Cost (in USD) |
| Movie Theatres/Tourist attractions | $2-20/activity |
| Gym membership | $35/month |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $2.57 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, three-course | $22.45 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | $4.01 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught) | $3.21 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) | $3.85 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | $2.39 |
Utilities
Depending on the type of living quarters you choose, the basic utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage etc) will cost you around US$50-$200/month. The cost of the internet plan is US$20-50/month depending on the type of plan and its speed.
Transportation
Here’s how much the different modes of transport will factor into your overall cost of living in Bali:
| Mode of Transport | Cost (in USD) |
| One-way ticket (Local Transport) | $0.28 |
| Monthly pass (Regular Price) | $8.47 |
| Taxi start (Normal Tariff) | $0.38 |
| Taxi 1 km (Normal Tariff) | $0.47 |
| Taxi 1 hour waiting (Normal Tariff) | $6.42 |
| Gasoline (1 litre) | $0.85 |
Also Read: Top Universities in Indonesia: A 2023 Guide on Admissions, Living Costs, Facts & Figures
Cost of Living in Bali: Average Tuition Fees
For international students, the tuition fees also count under the cost of living in Bali, going up to US$10,000/year or lower, depending on the type of institution and program you enroll in. Institutes like Udayana University and the Bali Institute of Tourism offer various degree programs in disciplines like business, hospitality, engineering, and arts. Additional expenses in Bali include health insurance, which costs US$700/person.
Things to Keep in Mind/Consider Before Moving to Bali
Moving to Bali as an international student can be an incredible adventure. But the cost of living in Bali aside, there are some things you’ll want to consider before packing your bags and booking your flight. Here are some key aspects to think about:
- Different visas apply for studying, working, or volunteering in Bali. Ensure you obtain the correct visa and understand its validity period and limitations.
- Extending your visa beyond its initial validity might involve additional paperwork and fees. Plan accordingly to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Popular tourist areas like Seminyak or Canggu tend to be pricier but offer vibrant nightlife and easy access to beaches. Consider quieter areas like Ubud or Sanur for a more affordable and cultural experience.
- Ensure the chosen university is accredited and offers programs that align with your academic interests and career goals.
- Lectures might be primarily in English but be prepared for potential cultural and language differences in the classroom environment.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites, and be mindful of cultural norms regarding behaviour and etiquette.
- Knowing essential phrases can go a long way in daily interactions and demonstrate respect for the local culture.
- Ensure your insurance covers potential medical emergencies during your stay in Bali.
- Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for Bali, especially for diseases like rabies and dengue fever.
- Petty theft and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Take necessary precautions and remain vigilant.
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FAQs
Ans: Bali is incredibly affordable compared to many Western countries, costing around US$500 – $1,000/month for international students.
Ans: Absolutely! Bali offers plenty of opportunities to live comfortably on a student budget of US$500 – $1,000/month.
Ans: Definitely! Popular tourist areas like Seminyak and Canggu have the highest prices for accommodation, food, and activities. While it’s perfect for nightlife and convenience, it’s also pricier. Mid-range areas like Ubud and Sanur offer more affordable accommodation and local eats, providing a good balance between price and amenities. Smaller towns and villages have the lowest costs overall.
We hope that this blog gives you all the information regarding the cost of living in Bali for international students. For more updates like this on student life abroad, subscribe to Leverage Edu today.
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