Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, is a serene paradise for digital nomads seeking a balance between work and leisure. Surrounded by lush rice fields, ancient temples, and vibrant art markets, Ubud offers a tranquil yet inspiring environment. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living for digital nomads in Ubud.
1. Accommodation Costs in Ubud
Ubud is known for its affordable and diverse accommodation options, from cozy homestays to luxury villas.
- Co-Living Spaces: $200–$500/month
- Private Rooms in Guesthouses: $150–$400/month
- Mid-Range Villas: $500–$1,000/month
- Luxury Villas: $1,500–$3,000/month
Popular Areas for Digital Nomads:
- Central Ubud: Close to co-working spaces, cafes, and the Ubud Palace.
- Penestanan: A quieter, artsy neighborhood with affordable options.
- Sayan: Known for its scenic views of the Ayung River Valley.
Pro Tip: Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com often have long-term stay discounts.
2. Food and Dining
Ubud is a foodie’s dream, offering a mix of traditional Balinese dishes and healthy vegan and vegetarian options.
- Street Food and Local Warungs: $1–$3 per meal
- Mid-Range Restaurants: $5–$10 per meal
- High-End Dining: $15–$50 per meal
- Groceries for a Month: $100–$200
Must-Try Foods: Nasi Campur, Babi Guling, Gado-Gado, and the famous Luwak coffee.
Pro Tip: Visit the Ubud Market early in the morning for fresh produce and local delicacies.
3. Transportation
While Ubud is walkable, renting a scooter is the most convenient way to explore the area.
- Scooter Rentals: $50–$80/month
- Fuel: $5–$10/month
- Taxis (Grab or Gojek): $2–$10 per ride
- Car Rentals with Driver: $30–$50/day
Pro Tip: Always wear a helmet and carry your international driving permit to avoid fines.
4. Co-Working Spaces and Internet
Ubud has a strong digital nomad community and excellent co-working spaces.
- Co-Working Memberships: $100–$300/month
- Day Pass: $10–$20/day
- Home Internet: $20–$40/month
Top Co-Working Spaces:
- Hubud: One of the first co-working spaces in Bali, located right in Ubud.
- Outpost Ubud: Known for its vibrant community and serene setting.
Pro Tip: Many cafes in Ubud also cater to remote workers with strong Wi-Fi and power outlets.
5. Entertainment and Lifestyle
Ubud is rich in cultural and recreational activities.
- Yoga Classes: $5–$15 per session
- Fitness Memberships: $20–$50/month
- Cultural Attractions (Temples, Rice Terraces): $1–$5
- Day Trips: $20–$50 (e.g., Mount Batur sunrise trek, Monkey Forest visit)
- Art Workshops: $10–$30 per session
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
- Explore Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
- Take a Balinese cooking class.
6. Visa and Other Expenses
Indonesia’s visa policies are flexible, making it easy for digital nomads to extend their stay in Ubud.
- Visa on Arrival: $35 (valid for 30 days, extendable for another 30 days)
- Social Visa: $50–$100 (valid for 60 days, extendable monthly for up to 6 months)
- Health Insurance: $30–$50/month
- Miscellaneous Expenses: $50–$150/month
Pro Tip: Consider applying for Indonesia’s Second Home Visa if you plan to stay long-term.
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Ubud
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $200–$1,000 |
| Food and Dining | $150–$400 |
| Transportation | $50–$100 |
| Co-Working/Internet | $120–$340 |
| Entertainment/Lifestyle | $50–$200 |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$150 |
| Total | $620–$2,190 |
Why Ubud is a Great Choice for Digital Nomads
Ubud’s unique combination of affordability, natural beauty, and a vibrant digital nomad community makes it a fantastic destination for remote workers. Whether you’re working from a serene co-working space or exploring the cultural wonders of Bali, Ubud offers an enriching and balanced lifestyle.
Want to see the cost of living in other cities in Indonesia? Go back to our guide to being a digital nomad in Indonesia and see the full list.
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