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Dreaming of owning your own villa in Bali but not sure how much land you actually need? You’re not alone. One of the first questions future villa owners ask us is: “How big should my land be if I want to build a villa in Bali?”
It’s a smart question, because land size affects everything: your budget, your villa design, and even your rental income potential.
That’s why we created this guide, to help you figure out the “sweet spot” for your villa construction, budget, and goals. Keep scrolling to find the answer.
Key Takeaways
- Land size depends on purpose. Small villas (1–2 BR) need 1.5–2.5 are, rental-focused villas (2–3 BR) work best on 3–5 are, and luxury estates require 5+ are.
- In Bali, the local unit of land is the are (1 are = 100 sqm), and most agents and listings use this measurement.
- Always check the land zoning. Only certain zones allow villas, and without the right zoning you won’t get a building permit (IMB/PBG).
Want a Bali villa that stands out? Discover Ilot Property Bali’s luxury designs here
“Are”: Bali’s Land Measurement
In Bali, people don’t usually talk in square meters or feet. Instead, the local unit is the are (pronounced “ar-uh”).
- 1 are = 100 sqm (10m x 10m plot)
- 3 are = 300 sqm
- 5 are = 500 sqm
So, if you see a “3-are plot” listed by an agent, that means 300 sqm.
How Much Land Do You Need to Build a Villa in Bali?
The right land size depends on your villa’s purpose. For example, a small villa for personal use will need less land than a big family home or a high-return rental property.
Here’s a comparison:
1–2 Bedroom Villa (Compact Luxury) → 1.5 – 2.5 are (150 – 250 sqm)
- Perfect for: Couples, personal retreats, long-term rental for digital nomads.
- What you can fit:
- A cozy villa with 1–2 bedrooms
- A plunge pool
- Small garden or deck
- Parking for scooters only
- Why popular: Compact luxury villas are in high demand in areas like Canggu and Bukit. Smart design makes small plots stylish and functional.
2–3 Bedroom Villa (The Rental King) → 3 – 5 are (300 – 500 sqm)
- Perfect for: High-yield rental investment or small family homes.
- What you can fit:
- Spacious villa with 2–3 bedrooms
- A full-sized swimming pool
- Outdoor living and tropical garden
- Proper car parking
- Why popular: This size hits the sweet spot. It’s big enough for everything guests want, while still affordable compared to larger plots.
5+ Are Villa (Luxury or Family Estate) → 500+ sqm
- Perfect for: Luxury residences, family estates, or large holiday rentals.
- What you can fit:
- Large main villa and guesthouses
- Sprawling lawns and gardens
- Massive pool
- Staff quarters and parking
- Why popular: Anything above 6 are is considered very large in Bali. It gives you freedom for luxury design and ultimate privacy.
Read More: Buying vs Building Villa in Bali: 9 Key Factors to Consider
Bali Land Zoning
The most important thing to consider before building villas in Bali is the Bali land zoning.
Land zoning is the local government’s regulation that decides the function and purpose of land use in a certain area.
In Bali (and Indonesia in general), land is divided into different zones, and each zone determines what type of building can (or cannot) be developed there.
This is why checking land zoning is crucial before buying land in Bali. If you buy land in the wrong zone, you may not get a building permit (IMB/PBG) for your villa.
You can learn more about Bali land zoning specification in our dedicated guide: Bali Land Zoning Explained: 6 Key Areas to Watch
Right-Sizing Your Plot: What to Consider
When we guide clients, here are the key things we always discuss:
- Your Villa’s Purpose: Is it a private home or a rental business?
- Must-Have Features: Pool, garden, yoga space, car parking—all of these need space.
- Location Costs: A 3-are plot in Seminyak could cost 10 times more than a 10-are plot in Tabanan.
- Your Budget: Bigger land = higher purchase cost plus bigger expenses (landscaping, walls, maintenance).
From here, you can create a clearer plan for your villa construction.
Read More: How Much Does It Cost to Build a Villa in Bali?
FAQ
1. Is owning a villa in Bali profitable?
Yes, owning a villa in Bali can be both enjoyable and financially rewarding. With strong tourism, rental yields often range between 8–20%, and property values continue to rise thanks to ongoing development.
2. Where is the best place to buy a villa in Bali?
Popular areas for international buyers include Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Nusa Dua, each offering great potential for investment.
3. How long does it take to build a villa in Bali?
On average, building a villa takes around 6 months to 1 year. The timeline depends mostly on the size and number of floors. Smaller projects—like compact huts—can be finished in just 3–5 months.
Conclusion
There’s no single “right” land size in Bali. It all depends on your goals and budget. Here are our takeaways:
- For most rental investors, 3–5 are (300–500 sqm) is the sweet spot.
- For a compact personal villa, you can consider 2 are (200 sqm)
- For luxury living, 5+ are gives you freedom to design big.
Also, don’t forget to check about land zoning regulations to ensure your building is legal and can be used for personal or investment purposes.
And if it still feels overwhelming, don’t worry! Our team at Ilot Property Bali is here to guide you step by step regarding construction.
Just click the button below anytime if you have questions. We’re here to help—free of charge and with no obligation.
