I first came to Bali at the age of nineteen, exploring Southeast Asia before beginning my appointment with the Royal Hong Kong Police. Bali captivated me then, as it does now. That was forty years ago, and I have been living, working, and visiting this magical, wave-lapped island ever since. Let me share some of the island’s secrets as a long-time Bali expat.
Eight years ago, my wife and I established criteria for selecting our retirement destination. A tropical beach with year-round sunshine and warm seas was essential. We also sought a place offering great value, a modern and efficient healthcare system, and a vibrant, charismatic culture with friendly, welcoming people.
Bali ticks all those boxes and more. It is magical, majestic, mystical, and memorable.
We live in a quiet neighborhood two minutes from Seminyak Beach and a bustling street filled with bars, cafes, international restaurants, local eateries, supermarkets, and shops. In Bali, you can be as social or private as you like. We enjoy a balance between both worlds, immersing ourselves in the culture and social life. One day might involve visiting a sacred temple, while the next could be spent with friends at a lively bar. The warmth of Balinese culture resonates through the people, manifesting in their friendly and welcoming nature.
Cost of Living in Bali
Bali is one of the most affordable places in the world to live. Our monthly budget of $2,800 allows us a lifestyle we couldn’t afford in the West. A significant portion goes toward renting a modern, fully equipped, air-conditioned apartment for $1,300 per month. This includes a swimming pool, cable TV, ultra-fast internet, and excellent maid service. While we could rent for half the cost, we value the amenities and consider it worth the expense.
Dining out is incredibly affordable. Meals for two at an international restaurant range from $20 to $25, while local dining options cost around $5 per person. Additional weekly expenses include laundry for $5, a gym membership at $35 per month per person, and haircuts for $3.50. With cheap gas prices, traveling across the island is both affordable and enjoyable.
Groceries in expat-favored Bintang supermarkets cost less than half of what you’d pay in the U.S., while fresh produce from local morning markets is even cheaper. Compared to Portugal, which is already known for its low cost of living, Bali is about 30% cheaper. With sunny days year-round, it’s easy to live a healthier, more active, and affordable life.
Katherine Lundstrom, a retired schoolteacher, was initially nervous about moving to Bali and starting from scratch. She had set a budget of $15,000 to furnish and equip her apartment. We guided her to the nearby Sunset Road, home to numerous shops specializing in bedding, homeware, kitchenware, and furniture, including Kabannan Living, Home Kitchen, and Art on the Table. After visiting an art gallery for Balinese artwork and a local market to purchase rattan furniture for her ocean-view balcony, the shopping spree was complete. Kat was thrilled to discover that her total expenses amounted to just $4,230—well below her original budget.
Healthcare in Bali
Healthcare in Bali has significantly improved over the past 15 years, making it a growing destination for medical tourism. Many doctors are Western-trained and fluent in English. The healthcare system is efficient and modern, with minimal waiting times. Popular among expats are the Silom and BIMC hospitals, offering world-class care. A 15-minute doctor consultation costs $13, while a specialist appointment ranges from $30 to $55. Dental treatments, such as fillings, cost between $30 and $55—much less than the $90 to $250 you’d pay in the U.S. Medications are inexpensive and widely available, with many pharmacies offering home delivery.
Day-to-Day Life
Our mornings often start with a walk to Seminyak beach, just two minutes from our apartment, to watch the sunrise. Breakfast ranges from local rice and chicken for $1 to a café-style meal of smashed avocado and poached eggs for $3. Following a beach walk, we either head to the gym, relax by the pool, or enjoy coffee at one of the trendy local cafes.
Bali offers an array of activities, from surfing and snorkeling to hiking and elephant trekking. My wife, Sarah, indulges in a weekly Balinese massage for $10, while a manicure and pedicure cost $8.50. The island’s social scene is diverse, with options for both quiet solitude and active engagement in expat communities.
A typical day is never dull. Bali provides a wealth of activities: scuba diving, fly fishing, rock climbing, horse riding, and even fun runs. Thanks to Bali’s affordability, these experiences are accessible and frequent, unlike in many Western countries.
Bali boasts an impressive array of international cuisines. Highlights include hamburgers at Yellowstone Bar, U.S. steaks at Craved, and ribs at Naughty Nuri’s. Expats can also enjoy Tex-Mex at local favorites. The American Chamber of Commerce and The American Club regularly host events, while various sports and hobby clubs cater to diverse interests.
Exploring Bali
On arrival, I recommend hiring a driver to explore the island. Bali is compact, and you can traverse it within a day. The island offers diverse lifestyles, from the bucolic charm of Ubud to vibrant beach towns. Drivers are excellent sources of local knowledge, and English is widely spoken.
For those considering Bali as a permanent home, I suggest reading Trouble in Paradise and Robert Pringle’s works for insights into Bali’s rich history and culture.
Final Thoughts
Bali is an extraordinary retirement destination, offering an unparalleled sense of serenity and vibrant lifestyle. Nehru’s famous description of Bali as The Morning of the World perfectly captures its essence. Whether you’re surrounded by the island’s stunning natural beauty, participating in ancient ceremonies, or simply enjoying daily life, Bali is a place that must be experienced to be fully appreciated. It is truly a world apart.
How To Move Out of the U.S.
How To Move Out of the U.S.
The policy implications of this election will impact your retirement funds, taxes, healthcare, and more. But you can protect yourself, your family, your future. In lots of safe, warm, friendly spots abroad, you can live comfortably on a budget from $2,000-$3,800 a month (all-in—housing and extras included). We’ll show you how—and where—to go.
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