Expat Guide: Best Places To Live In Bali

If you decided to move to Bali, you may be searching for the best areas to stay in Bali.

I have lived in Bali for nearly two years in the past, and I’ve been writing lots of content about it.

That said, I’m in a good position to recommend the safest places to live in Bali.

Bali is a great destination for digital nomads, slow travelers, and expats. Whether you’re into surfing, beach life, or spirituality, there’s something for everyone in Bali.

If you want to learn more about what it’s like to live in Bali, I’d recommend you read our full guide to moving to Bali and our blog post about the pros and cons of living in Bali.

Without further ado, let’s talk about the best places to live in Bali.

Canggu

Canggu is one of the top places to live in Bali. It became more and more popular over the years because it’s a great destination for expats and digital nomads.

You’ll find multiple coworking spaces around Canggu, great cafés to work from, nice beach bars, and plenty of good restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian options.

Not only is it good to work and live, but you’ll also find several gyms, CrossFit gyms and yoga centres so that you can remain fit while in Bali.

When I lived in Bali, I had picked Canggu because it was easy to make friends there, and there’s a big community of expats and digital nomads.

One thing to note is that Canggu can get very busy at times. For example, it’s a well-known destination for surfers and for backpackers, so during the high season, Canggu gets extremely busy.

Note that since 2020, Canggu is one of the only places that managed to survive the pandemic because many people remained in Canggu. After all, it’s a very comfortable place to live in Bali.

Safety-wise, Canggu is safe-ish. Cases of bag snatching, robberies, and groping have been reported for several years. That said, in times of pandemic, the crime rate is higher. 

There are still ways to remain safe and reduce risks by putting your bag/purse inside your scooter when driving around (especially at night).

It’s recommended to avoid alcohol abuse when going out and to always wear a helmet when driving.

Kerobokan

Kerobokan is located right next to Canggu, north of Seminyak. It can be a good alternative for someone who wants to spend most of their time in Canggu during the day but seeking something quieter at night. 

Usually, you’ll be able to find cheaper accommodation there.

Although, if you have to drive more at night to head back home, you have to be careful.

Pererenan

Pererenan is located on the other side of Canggu, so further away in direction of Tanah Lot.

Many expats and digital nomads rent villas in Pererenan because it’s quieter and more affordable than in Canggu.

Also, there are more villa options there.

Again, it’s recommended to be extra careful when driving at night and avoid any shortcuts to Pererenan because many bag snatching and groping cases have been reported on the shortcut from Canggu to Pererenan.

That said, I have a few friends who were robbed in their own villa while they were sleeping or while they were there. So, it’s important to have security or ways to feel safe at home.

Now I’d just like to add that safety can seem to be an issue in Bali, but during my two years in Bali, nothing happened to me. I was extra cautious and careful to reduce risks.

Unfortunately, I have lots of friends who didn’t have the same luck as me.

Ubud

Ubud is located inland so it won’t be a good option for someone who wants to be close to the beach.

Although, you’ll find a couple of coworking spaces as well as nice cafés and restaurants to work from.

Ubud is known for its spiritual vibes where you can participate in sound healing sessions, yoga classes, ecstatic dances, cacao ceremonies, and more.

Also popular amongst tourists, Ubud can get very busy at times.

Note that if you live in Ubud, you’ll need a scooter to get around because some places can be remote and hard to access on foot.

Finally, the accommodation tends to be cheaper in Ubud than in Canggu.

Uluwatu

Uluwatu and Jimbaran are two locations in the south of Bali. They are very popular amongst expats who are into surfing. This is where you’ll find the best surfing waves in Bali.

You’ll find nice cafés and restaurants as well as several surfing schools in this area. 

Again, having a scooter is recommended in this area so that you can move freely.

You’ll also find the most beautiful beaches in Bali in this area.

Sanur

Sanur is another destination where many expats decide to live. Sanur is mostly popular for expats and digital nomads who love scuba diving or freediving. 

Sanur attracts expats who don’t like busy areas and instead, prefer something quieter and more relaxing.

Located on the east coast of Bali, you’ll have quick access to the Nusa Islands, to the Gili’s, and to Lombok, which makes it a good base if you want to explore other Indonesian islands.

Alternatively, some will go up north and set base in Amed instead.

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Live In Bali

As mentioned above, the best place to live in Bali in my opinion is Canggu or its neighboring towns (Kerobokan and Pererenan).

You’ll find the best coworking spaces in Bali in this area too.

But depending on your interests and needs, you may be more interested in a place like Ubud, Sanur, or Uluwatu.

Bali is definitely one of the best places to live in Asia, so we highly recommend it.

If you’re heading to Bali soon, read one of the following guides to get ready for your trip:

• What to pack for Bali
• Bali scooter rental
• Bali VS Thailand