How to Find Long-Term Accommodation in Bali Without Airbnb

How to Find Long-Term Accommodation in Bali Without Airbnb 1

Bali is more than just a vacation destination — it’s a place where many dream of staying longer. Whether you’re a digital nomad, remote worker, retiree, or someone who simply fell in love with Bali’s vibe, you’ll eventually seek a long-term place to live. While Airbnb is a popular choice for short stays, it often comes with inflated prices and platform fees. Luckily, there are plenty of other ways to find long-term rentals in Bali.

This article will guide you through all the tips, strategies, and secrets for securing a great long-term place to stay in Bali — all without using Airbnb.


🗺️ Understanding the Types of Accommodation in Bali

Before diving into search strategies, let’s explore the types of accommodations you can rent long-term in Bali:

🏠 Guesthouses and Homestays

These are locally owned properties where you rent a room in a family compound or small hotel-like setting. They are often more affordable and come with basic amenities like private bathrooms, sometimes with breakfast or cleaning services included. Living in a homestay gives you a cultural edge — you’re surrounded by locals and may even be invited to ceremonies.

🏢 Kosts

A “kost” is similar to a boarding house. These are simple rooms, usually with private bathrooms, and sometimes kitchenettes. They’re budget-friendly and popular with Indonesian university students and young workers. You’ll find a lot of these around Denpasar and other local hubs.

🏘️ Apartments and Villas

If you want a full home with a kitchen, garden, and privacy, apartments or villas are ideal. They range from modest to ultra-luxurious and can be leased monthly or yearly. Most come fully furnished, and some include pool access, cleaning, and even security.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Coliving Spaces

These are modern communal living areas tailored for digital nomads. You’ll get a private room, access to shared living and work areas, high-speed internet, and community events. They’re ideal for networking and finding a sense of community.


🔍 Where to Look (Without Airbnb)

🧑‍💻 Facebook Groups

This is one of the most powerful tools for finding rentals in Bali. There are dozens of groups focused solely on housing. Just search for terms like “Bali Long-Term Rental”, “Canggu Housing”, or “Ubud Villa Rentals”. Landlords post regularly and you can communicate directly.

🧭 Local Real Estate Agencies

There are plenty of trusted real estate agencies in Bali that cater to expats and long-term travelers. These agencies have listings not available online and can help with contracts and negotiation. Some specialize in specific areas like Ubud, Sanur, or Seminyak.

🛵 Explore On the Ground

One of the most underrated but effective methods is to physically explore the area where you’d like to stay. Rent a scooter and drive around. Look for “DISEWAKAN” (for rent) signs. Locals often don’t advertise online and you might stumble on a hidden gem.

🗣️ Word of Mouth

Once you’re in Bali, connect with expats, nomads, or locals. You’ll be amazed at how many people know someone renting a place. Word of mouth is still very powerful in Bali’s small and interconnected communities.


💡 Tips to Score the Best Long-Term Deals

📆 Avoid High Season

Try not to move during the holiday season (October to December and July to August). Prices go up during these months, and availability shrinks. Instead, arrive in the shoulder season (February–May or September) when you’ll get better deals.

💸 Be Ready to Negotiate

Unlike Western countries, prices in Bali are often negotiable, especially for longer stays. Always ask if the landlord is open to discounts for a 3-month or 6-month commitment.

💰 Offer a Deposit

Showing commitment by offering a small deposit (10–20%) can help secure your place. It shows you’re serious and can sometimes lock in a better rate.

🕵️ Inspect Before You Commit

Never pay for long-term rent without seeing the place in person. What looks great in photos might have mold, noise, or poor internet. Always inspect for cleanliness, air conditioning, water pressure, and WiFi speed.

📝 Clarify Inclusions

Does the price include electricity, internet, cleaning, garbage collection? Clarify everything in writing. Some landlords include all utilities; others don’t.

🔌 Check the Internet Speed

If you work remotely, internet is crucial. Many properties in Bali still have weak or unreliable connections. Test the speed during your visit or ask for a screenshot of a speed test.


📍 Best Areas to Live in Bali

Bali has a diverse landscape, and each area offers a unique vibe. Your ideal location depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.

🌊 Canggu

Trendy, surfer-friendly, and filled with digital nomads. You’ll find coworking spaces, cafes, yoga studios, and a lot of villa options. However, traffic can be an issue.

🧘 Ubud

Nestled in the jungle and rice paddies, Ubud is perfect for those seeking peace, nature, and a slower pace. It’s the spiritual center of Bali, known for yoga, vegan cafes, and artisan markets.

🏖️ Seminyak

Upscale and polished, Seminyak is great for those who want shopping, fine dining, and nightlife. Accommodations here can be pricier, but it’s close to the beach and tourist hubs.

🌅 Uluwatu

With its cliffside views and surf culture, Uluwatu is great for beach lovers. It’s quieter than Canggu and Seminyak but still has a growing nomad scene.

🌾 Sanur

A family-friendly coastal town known for its calm beaches and expat community. It’s a popular choice for retirees or those who want a slower pace and fewer tourists.


🧳 What to Prepare Before Renting

  • Passport copy: Some landlords will ask for a copy to prepare rental agreements.
  • Cash in Rupiah: Many rentals deal in cash. Consider transferring large amounts using services like Wise to avoid hefty fees.
  • SIM Card: Get an Indonesian SIM card to easily communicate via WhatsApp — the preferred communication tool in Bali.
  • Scooter license: To explore the island and visit properties, you’ll likely need a scooter. Make sure you have an international driving permit.

🚫 What to Avoid

  • Middlemen without clear credentials: Some people pretend to be agents and will ask for deposits upfront. Always verify their identity.
  • Paying full rent online: Avoid transferring full amounts before seeing the property.
  • No written agreement: Always ask for a rental agreement, even if simple, outlining the terms and duration of your stay.
  • Ignoring maintenance issues: If you notice anything off (leaks, broken AC, mold), bring it up before signing.

🤝 How to Build a Good Relationship with Your Landlord

  • Be respectful of the property: Leave things as you found them and report damages promptly.
  • Pay rent on time: This not only ensures a good relationship but may also help you get discounts later.
  • Engage locally: Participate in local events or ceremonies. This strengthens community ties and earns goodwill.

📦 Moving In: What to Bring vs. What’s Provided

Most long-term rentals in Bali are furnished. Here’s what’s typically included:

  • Bed, wardrobe, desk
  • Fan or AC
  • Basic cookware and utensils
  • Fridge and stovetop

You may still want to bring or buy:

  • High-quality bedding
  • Extra towels
  • Portable fan
  • Universal adapters
  • Water filter pitcher

🌐 Can You Lease for One Year?

Yes! In fact, many landlords prefer longer commitments and offer big discounts for 6 or 12-month leases. Some villas are only available on yearly contracts. Make sure you understand what’s required in such agreements (some need local sponsorship or agent assistance).


📝 Sample Rental Prices (2025 Estimates)

Here are average long-term monthly rental prices (in Indonesian Rupiah and USD):

Area Guesthouse Villa (1BR) Villa (2BR+)
Canggu IDR 3M ($200) IDR 8M ($530) IDR 15M+ ($1000+)
Ubud IDR 2.5M ($165) IDR 6M ($400) IDR 12M+ ($800+)
Seminyak IDR 4M ($265) IDR 10M ($670) IDR 20M+ ($1300+)
Sanur IDR 3.5M ($235) IDR 7M ($470) IDR 14M+ ($950+)

🏁 Final Thoughts

Finding long-term accommodation in Bali without Airbnb is easier than you might think. With a bit of groundwork, the right timing, and local insight, you can find beautiful, affordable homes that suit your lifestyle. Bali rewards those who explore with open eyes and an open heart — don’t be afraid to ask, connect, and dig deeper.

Your perfect home in paradise might just be a scooter

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