Disclaimer: All rental prices mentioned in this article are general estimates based on the current listings on our website. Actual prices may vary depending on factors. For the most accurate and updated pricing, we recommend speaking directly with a real estate agent.
The year-end holiday season is approaching, and Bali is once again a top choice for those seeking a tropical escape or even a long-term stay.
If you’re a foreigner planning to move and stay in Bali for long-term, one big decision you’ll face is where to stay and whether you choose to rent or build a villa.
Each area in Bali has its own charm, from quiet rice fields to lively beach towns. So, it’s important to choose a location that fits your goals to make the most of your Bali experience.
This article will guide you in choosing the best areas for long-term living and share insider tips to make your Bali life a success.
Key Takeaways
- Top areas for long-term living: Canggu (trendy & high ROI), Umalas (quiet & family-friendly), and Seminyak (luxury & lifestyle) — each offers a different Bali experience and rental range.
- Renting offers flexibility and lower risk; building gives long-term value and ownership. Many expats start by renting before investing.
- Remember to consider location, budget, early booking, negotiation, villa quality, and legal advice before committing to a long-term stay.
Claim your 20% discount on villa design this month: Click here!
Top Areas for Long-Term Stay in Bali
1. Canggu – The Digital Nomad and Surf Haven
Canggu is one of the trendiest places in Bali, loved by digital nomads, young professionals, and long-term travelers. With cool cafes, beach clubs, surf breaks, and co-working spaces, Canggu offers the perfect mix of work and leisure.
- Monthly Rental Range in Canggu: Starts from around $2000 USD for a 2-bedroom villa.
- Yearly Rental Range in Canggu: Starts from around $20,000 USD for a 1-bedroom villa.
Source: Bali Villa Realty by ILOT – An extraordinary 9-bedroom Villa for Yearly Rental in Canggu
Source: Bali Villa Realty – Balinese-style 6-bedroom villa for yearly rental in Canggu
Pros:
- Active expat and digital nomad community
- Countless cafés, restaurants, and wellness studios
- Strong rental demand (high ROI)
- Great surf and outdoor lifestyle
Cons:
- Traffic and crowding during peak hours
- Noise from nightlife zones
- Rising property and land prices
- Flooding risk in some low-lying areas (but construction has been stabilised)
Explore More Villas for Rent in Canggu: Click here!
2. Umalas – Peaceful and Family-Friendly
Located between Seminyak and Canggu, Umalas is a serene area surrounded by rice fields yet minutes from Bali’s main attractions. It’s ideal for families, long-term expats, or anyone who values tranquillity with convenience.
- Monthly Rental Range in Umalas: Starts from around $2100 USD for a 2-bedroom villa.
- Yearly Rental Range in Umalas: Starts from around $22,685 USD for a 2-bedroom villa.
Pros:
- Quiet, safe, and green
- Close to international schools
- Spacious villas with private gardens
- Easier traffic than Canggu or Seminyak
- Balance between exapt lifestyle and local community
Cons:
- Fewer restaurants, cafés, and entertainment options than Canggu/Seminyak
- Limited beach access (need to drive to Canggu or Seminyak)
- Still developing infrastructure in some parts
- Rental demand is steady but not as high as Canggu or Seminyak
Explore More Villas for Rent in Umalas: Click here!
3. Seminyak – Luxury and Lifestyle Combined
If you love a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Seminyak is your go-to for long-term rental. Known for fine dining, boutique shopping, and beach clubs, it’s perfect for those who want the energy of Bali’s upscale scene with all modern comforts.
- Monthly Rental Range in Seminyak: Starts from around $2000 USD for a 2-bedroom villa
- Yearly Rental Range in Seminyak: Starts from around $24,000 USD for a 3-bedroom villa
Source: Bali Villa Realty – Luxurious 4-bedroom villa for Rent in Seminyak
Pros:
- Established tourism hotspot with luxury shopping, dining, and nightlife
- Direct beach access with many beach clubs and sunset spots
- High demand for vacation rentals (premium rates possible)
- Wide choice of luxury villas and stylish accommodations
- Convenient location, close to Kuta and not far from the airport
Cons:
- Busy tourist areas, limited privacy
- Higher prices and limited land
- Heavy traffic near Petitenget and Oberoi
- Noise from bars and clubs
Browse All Villas for Rent in Bali: Find Your Perfect Match!
Building vs Renting Villa Bali: Which One is Better for Long-Term Stay?
Choosing between building or renting a villa in Bali depends on your goals, budget, and how long you plan to stay. Both options have their advantages and challenges. Let’s break it down:
| Renting a Villa | Building a Villa | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | • Flexible – easy to move areas • Lower upfront cost • Ready to move in (often fully furnished) • Landlord covers major maintenance | • Custom design to match your style & lifestyle • Long-term value (resale potential) • Strong rental income opportunities • Sense of ownership – your own Bali home |
| Cons | • No ownership – you only pay to use it • Rent can increase over time • Limited freedom to renovate or change • All payments are “lost” (no asset) | • High initial investment (land + construction) • Takes time (12–18 months to build) • You handle all maintenance & management • Legal setup needed (leasehold or PT PMA) |
Renting is smarter option if you want flexibility, lower risk, and short-term living. But if you plan to stay long-term, want ROI, and are ready to invest, then building a villa is the way to go.
Pro Tip: Many expats start by renting for 6–12 months to learn the market and lifestyle. Once they’re sure about the area, they move on to buying land and building their dream villa.
Read More: How to Build a Villa in Bali as a Foreigner (+ Cost Breakdown)
Key Factors in Choosing the Right Villa
When choosing a long-term villa in Bali, it’s important to look beyond aesthetics. Based on both our experience and current market insight, here are the key factors to consider before committing to your Bali villa rental:
1. Location
Select an area that reflects the atmosphere you want to enjoy. Seminyak offers vibrant beach life, dining, and nightlife, while Umalas provides more peace and greenery, ideal if you prefer a relaxed, community feel.
Also, check how accessible the area is to everyday essentials such as grocery stores, gyms, restaurants, and transport hubs.
Read More: Second Home Visa: A Must Have for Long-Term Stay in Bali
2. Set a Budget
When setting your budget, include not just the villa price or rent but also ongoing costs such as taxes, legal fees, staff salaries, and maintenance.
These additional expenses can make a significant difference when planning a long-term stay or Bali property investment.
3. Book Early
Long-term villas in Bali are in high demand. Booking early can help you secure the best options, and many owners offer early-bird discounts for extended stays.
4. Negotiate
If you plan to stay for more than six months, it’s always worth negotiating. Many villa owners are open to discounted rates for long-term rentals, especially if you show genuine interest and reliability.
5. Quality and Reviews
Before renting or purchasing, check past guest reviews to understand the service quality and management reputation.
When possible, inspect the villa in person, pay attention to the building materials, maintenance, and construction quality to ensure it’s well-built and comfortable for long-term living.
6. Consult a Lawyer
Understanding Bali’s property laws is essential, especially when dealing with leasehold or ownership agreements. Always seek professional legal advice to ensure everything is transparent and compliant.
At ILOT Property Bali, our team can help you navigate this process and find a villa that fits both your lifestyle and investment goals.
What to Look for in a Villa
Ready to choose a villa? Based on one of our expat team’s experience living in Bali, there are some features that truly make a difference when choosing your ideal Bali villa:
1. Layout and Design
Look for open layouts with plenty of natural light and good air circulation. Bali’s tropical climate can feel quite warm, so, a well-designed villa with large windows or sliding doors that let in natural airflow help keep the space fresh and comfortable.
This design also enhances the indoor-outdoor living style that Bali is famous for. One of the example of good villa architecture design is here:
Source: Bali Villa Realty – 2-bedroom villa with open space for monthly/yearly rental
2. Outdoor Spaces
From our experience, having a private pool is almost essential. The heat can be intense during the day, and being able to cool off right at home adds so much comfort to daily life.
Many villas with private pools in Bali also include tropical gardens or shaded lounge areas, perfect for relaxing, reading, or entertaining guests.
Source: Bali Villa Realty – Exquisite 4-bedroom villa for monthly rental in Canggu
3. Facilities & Comfort
If you plan to stay long-term, invest in comfort. We personally found it important to have a well-equipped kitchen to cook at home, which not only saves money but also makes daily living feel more grounded.
Don’t forget about a reliable cooling system, especially air conditioning, as temperatures and humidity can rise quickly. A strong Wi-Fi connection and good-quality furniture are also must-haves for remote work or simply relaxing indoors.
Source: ILOT Property Bali – Modern 2-bedroom villa for monthly/yearly rental
4. On-Site Services
Choose Bali long-term villas that include staffing services such as a housekeeper, gardener, or pool maintenance team. This support makes daily life easier and helps keep your villa in excellent condition.
Read More: The 6 Biggest Do’s and Don’ts When Buying Property in Bali
FAQ
If you plan to live in Bali for years rather than just a few months, you’ll need a limited stay permit (KITAS/KITAP). Depending on the type, this permit can be valid for up to two years and can be extended within Indonesia. It also allows you to leave and re-enter the country multiple times.
Yes, foreigners can build a house in Bali, but they cannot directly own freehold land. Instead, they must use legal structures such as leasehold agreements or partnerships with local landowners to comply with Indonesian law.
Here’s a rough cost breakdown:
• Permits and legal fees: $1,400 – $3,500
• Interior finishing: $21,000 – $49,000
• Furnishing & Decor: $7,000 – $21,000
Total estimate: $140,000 – $350,000
Generally, building a villa is more cost-effective than purchasing a fully finished and furnished one.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Bali Home
And there you have it! The best areas to stay long-term in Bali, plus rental prices and a few insider tips from our own experience living here.
Keep in mind, every area in Bali has its own pros and cons—and so does each type of property, whether you’re renting or building your own villa. If you’d like to explore different neighborhoods before settling down, we recommend starting with a long-term rental for more flexibility.
Want to skip the hassle of searching for the right property? ILOT Property Bali is here to help!
Click below to chat with one of our expert agents. It’s free, flexible, and with no obligation. Just honest advice based on what you’re looking for.
