Bali Stay Ideas: 7 Villas That Gave Me Stories to Remember in Ubud, Canggu & Seminyak
There’s something about Bali that stays with you long after the plane ride home. Maybe it’s the smell of incense in the... Read More
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.
Before diving into search strategies, let’s explore the types of accommodations you can rent long-term in Bali:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Does the price include electricity, internet, cleaning, garbage collection? Clarify everything in writing. Some landlords include all utilities; others don’t.
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.
Bali has a diverse landscape, and each area offers a unique vibe. Your ideal location depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Most long-term rentals in Bali are furnished. Here’s what’s typically included:
You may still want to bring or buy:
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).
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+) |
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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