Living in Ubud: Cost of Living, Lifestyle & Practical Tips
Living in Ubud means having rice fields, local markets, temples, and cafés as part of your everyday surroundings. It’s a popular choice for people who want to spend more time in Bali, whether they’re working remotely, taking a career break, or simply enjoying a longer stay.
But there’s more to consider than the scenery. Finding the right place to live, getting around, and understanding monthly expenses can make a big difference to your experience. This guide covers what everyday life in Ubud is like and what you should know before settling in.
What Is It Like Living in Ubud?
Life in Ubud can feel quite different depending on where you live. Around the town centre, you’ll find restaurants, cafés, yoga studios, shops, and markets within a relatively small area. Head a little further out, and the surroundings become quieter, with rice fields, village roads, and more residential neighbourhoods.
One thing worth knowing is that central Ubud can get busy, especially around Jalan Raya Ubud and Monkey Forest Road. If you prefer somewhere quieter, it may be worth looking at accommodation outside the centre, although you’ll need to consider how you’ll get around.
Source: Unsplash
Cost of Living in Ubud
Ubud is known for its low cost of living, which makes it an affordable destination for expats and digital nomads. Overall, compared to other popular destinations in Southeast Asia, Ubud is relatively affordable. Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses, with monthly rents for one-bedroom hotels ranging from around $200 to $600, depending on location, amenities, and lease terms.
Food costs can vary depending on whether you eat out or cook at your accommodation. Eating out at local warungs (small restaurants) and street vendors is generally affordable, with meals costing around $2 to $4. Western-style restaurants can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 per meal.
Transportation costs in Ubud can be relatively low, especially if you choose to walk or cycle instead of using taxis or ride-sharing services. Motorbike rentals start at around $60 per month, and petrol is inexpensive.
Other expenses to consider include healthcare, visas, and leisure activities. Overall, the cost of living in Ubud can be relatively affordable, especially if you’re willing to live a more modest lifestyle and take advantage of local resources and services.
Visa in Bali
If you’re planning to stay in Ubud for more than a short holiday, check which Indonesian visa is suitable for your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Tourist visas, longer-stay permits, and other immigration options have different requirements and permitted activities.
Visa rules and extension procedures can change, so it’s best to check the latest information through the official Indonesian immigration website before making long-term accommodation plans.
Citizens of the following countries are ELIGIBLE FOR VISA-FREE ENTRY:
| – Brunei | – Singapore | – Laos |
| – Philippines | – Malaysia | – Vietnam |
| – Cambodia | – Thailand | – Myanmar |
This exemption applies solely for tourism purposes and allows a stay of up to 30 days. It is important to note that this stay cannot be extended; travelers must exit the country within 30 days. A valid passport is required for entry, not a residency permit.
Source: Unsplash
Embracing the Balinese Lifestyle – Culture, Traditions, and Customs
Ubud is a place where you can fully immerse yourself in the Balinese culture and way of life. Balinese culture is heavily influenced by Hinduism, which is reflected in the many temples and shrines that are scattered throughout the town. The Balinese people are known for their hospitality, warmth, and friendliness, which makes them great hosts to visitors.
One of the best ways to experience the Balinese culture is by participating in traditional ceremonies and festivals. Ubud has many festivals throughout the year, such as Nyepi Day, Galungan, and Kuningan. These festivals are a great opportunity to witness the vibrant Balinese culture and to learn more about their traditions and customs.
Another way to embrace the Balinese lifestyle is by learning some of the traditional arts and crafts. Ubud is home to many traditional arts and crafts, such as wood carving, and painting. Taking a class or workshop in one of these crafts is a great way to learn more about the Balinese culture and to connect with the local community.
Source: Unsplash
Festival to See in Ubud
Experiencing the colorful Balinese culture and gaining a deeper understanding of their traditions and customs can be best achieved by taking part in traditional ceremonies and festivals. Ubud offers a variety of notable festivals such as:
- Bali Spirit Festival: Celebrates yoga, dance, and music, drawing a global community interested in wellness, creativity, and mindfulness.
- Ubud Food Festival: A gastronomic event showcasing Indonesian cuisine with cooking demonstrations, food tours, and talks by renowned chefs.
- Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali): Although island-wide, Ubud participates in this month-long celebration of Balinese art and culture, featuring traditional dance, music, and handicrafts.
- Nyepi Day (Balinese Day of Silence): The Balinese Hindu New Year, marked by a day of silence, fasting, and meditation. Preceded by colorful parades of ‘Ogoh-Ogoh’ (demonic effigies) in Ubud.
- Tumpek Landep: A day dedicated to the blessing of metal objects, including ceremonial weapons and vehicles, characterized by special rituals and offerings.
- Galugan: Galungan is a significant Balinese Hindu festival celebrating the victory of dharma over adharma, marking a time when the ancestral spirits visit the Earth. The festival, which lasts for ten days, is filled with offerings, prayers, and decorated bamboo poles called ‘penjor’ that symbolize prosperity and gratitude.
- Kuningan: ten days after Galungan, marks the end of the Galungan festival in Bali and is a time when Balinese Hindus believe that ancestral spirits return to heaven. The day is characterized by special prayers, offerings, and rituals, including the creation of yellow rice (‘nasi kuning’), which symbolizes gratitude and prosperity.
Tips for Living in Ubud
When it comes to living in Ubud, there are certain tips that can enhance your experience and help you fully embrace the local culture. One of the most important things to keep in mind is to be respectful of Balinese customs and traditions, while still enjoying the hospitality and friendliness of the locals.
Another tip for living in Ubud is to familiarize yourself with some basic Indonesian phrases. Here are some of the basic phrases you need to know:
- Hello, How are you? – Hai, apa kabar?
- What’s your name? – Siapa nama anda?
- My name is.. – Nama Saya…
- Pleased to meet you – Senang bertemu dengan anda
- Yes – Ya
- No – Tidak
- Thank you – Terima Kasih
- Sorry – Maaf
- Help! – Tolong!
- I want… – Saya Mau…
- I don’t understand – saya tidak mengerti
- Excuse me – Permisi
Even though English is widely spoken in the area, making an effort to learn the local language can help you connect with the community and demonstrate your appreciation for their culture.
It’s also important to prioritize your health and well-being while living in Ubud. While the town boasts a healthy lifestyle, it’s crucial to take care of both your mental and physical health, especially when living in a new and unfamiliar environment.
Lastly, be open-minded and adventurous. Living in Ubud is a unique experience that offers many opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. Embrace the Balinese lifestyle and culture, and be open to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone.
Source: Unsplash
Getting Around Ubud
If you’re staying near Ubud Centre, you can walk to many restaurants, cafés, shops, and attractions. However, footpaths can be uneven or narrow, and traffic around the main streets gets busy throughout the day.
By Scooter
Scooters are commonly used for getting between villages and exploring areas outside the centre. They’re convenient for shorter trips, but Bali’s traffic and narrow roads can be challenging for inexperienced riders. Make sure you have the correct licence and insurance before renting one.
By Car or Private Driver
For longer journeys, shopping trips, or visits to places outside Ubud, a car with a driver can be more comfortable. Ride-hailing services are also available in parts of the area, although pick-up arrangements may vary by location.
Source: Unsplash
Where to Stay When Living in Ubud
Finding the right place to stay in Ubud comes down to how you want to spend your days. Staying near Ubud Centre makes it easier to reach cafés, restaurants, and shops, while areas such as Penestanan, Sayan, and Kedewatan offer different surroundings and accommodation options.
If you’re planning to stay for several weeks or months, look beyond the photos when choosing a property. Check the internet connection, road access, included services, and how far you’ll be from the places you expect to visit regularly.
For travellers who want more privacy and room to spread out, renting a villa in Ubud may be worth considering, particularly for families or longer stays.
Source: Villa Umah Shanti
Planning a Longer Stay in Ubud?
Before deciding where to stay, spend some time getting to know the different areas of Ubud. A villa close to the town centre may suit you if you like going out regularly, while a quieter location could be better if you prefer more privacy and space.
If you’re looking for a private villa, Ubud Villas Rental offers a selection of properties around Ubud. Take a look at the available villas and check directly about longer-stay arrangements before making your plans.
