why are some expats choosing to live outside bali's main tourist areas?

Bali is often associated with popular destinations such as Canggu, Seminyak and Uluwatu. Known for their restaurants, beach clubs, cafés and international communities, these areas continue to attract visitors and long-term residents. However, they are not the only places people consider when deciding to settle on the island.

For some expats, living in Bali is less about being close to the busiest attractions and more about finding a comfortable everyday lifestyle. Access to nature, residential space, local communities and a slower pace of life are becoming important considerations when choosing where to live.

From the established coastal neighbourhoods of Sanur to the green surroundings of Ubud and the quieter landscapes of Tabanan, different parts of Bali offer different ways of experiencing the island.

In this article, we explore why some expats are choosing to live outside Bali's main tourist areas, which locations may suit different lifestyles, and what to consider before buying or renting a property.

1. More Space and a Quieter Environment

One reason some expats look beyond Bali's main tourist areas is the opportunity to enjoy more space and a less crowded environment.

As popular destinations have grown, certain neighbourhoods have experienced increased traffic, construction activity and commercial development. For people who spend most of their time working or living on the island, these factors can become more noticeable than they would during a short holiday.

Areas outside the busiest tourist centres may offer larger gardens, more distance between properties and quieter residential surroundings. This can be particularly appealing to families, remote workers and people who prefer spending time at home.

However, a quieter location does not necessarily mean a more convenient one. Buyers and future residents should consider road access, nearby shops, healthcare facilities and other everyday services before choosing a property.

What to consider: When looking for quieter places to live in Bali, balance privacy and space with accessibility and everyday convenience.

2. A Stronger Connection With Nature

Bali's appeal extends far beyond its coastline. Inland areas offer rice fields, tropical gardens, forests and mountain landscapes that create a different atmosphere from the island's more developed beach destinations.

Ubud, for example, has long attracted people interested in wellness, arts and a closer connection with nature. Further west, parts of Tabanan offer a more rural setting, with agricultural landscapes and residential areas surrounded by greenery.

For some residents, this environment becomes an important part of everyday life. Morning walks, outdoor activities and time spent in natural surroundings can be more appealing than living close to nightlife and busy commercial areas.

There are practical considerations, too. Properties surrounded by greenery may require more attention to humidity, drainage, landscaping and maintenance. It is worth understanding these factors before choosing a home in a more rural location.

What to consider: Natural surroundings can be attractive, but the property's condition, maintenance needs and access to essential services remain important.

3. Different Areas Offer Different Communities

Another consideration when deciding where to live in Bali as an expat is the type of community people want to be part of.

Bali's international population is diverse, including families, entrepreneurs, remote workers, retirees and people who have established businesses or personal connections on the island. Different neighbourhoods tend to attract people with different priorities.

Sanur: This established coastal area has a long-standing residential character and is often associated with families and retirees. Its beachfront promenade, local amenities and access to healthcare contribute to its appeal.

Ubud: Known for wellness, creative industries and cultural experiences, Ubud attracts people interested in nature, arts and a different pace of life.

Tabanan: Parts of Tabanan and Bali's western coastal areas may appeal to people seeking more space, agricultural landscapes and quieter residential surroundings.

These communities are not exclusive, and each area has a mix of local residents and international visitors. The important point is that choosing where to live is also about finding an environment that suits your daily routine and social preferences.

What to consider: Visit different neighbourhoods and spend time in the local community before deciding where to settle.

4. Everyday Convenience Matters More Than Holiday Attractions

When visiting Bali, it is easy to prioritise proximity to beaches, restaurants and entertainment. For someone living on the island, however, everyday convenience often becomes more important.

Access to supermarkets, schools, medical facilities, gyms, cafés and reliable transport can have a significant influence on daily life.

This is one reason established residential areas such as Sanur remain attractive to long-term residents. While it offers a quieter atmosphere than some of the southwest's busier destinations, it still provides access to a range of everyday services.

Other locations may offer more space or natural surroundings but require longer journeys for certain facilities. Someone working remotely may be comfortable living further from the main commercial areas, while a family with school-age children may place greater importance on school access and transport.

What to consider: The best areas to live in Bali depend on individual priorities, including work, family needs, transport and access to essential services.

5. A Different Perspective on Property Choices

Choosing to live outside Bali's main tourist areas can also influence the type of property people consider.

Rather than prioritising a villa close to nightlife or popular beaches, some buyers may look for practical layouts, larger gardens, additional workspace or quieter surroundings.

A property designed for long-term living may also require different features from one intended primarily for short-term holiday accommodation. Storage, kitchen functionality, privacy, maintenance requirements and access to essential services can all become more important.

This does not mean properties in less-touristed areas are automatically more affordable or offer better value. Prices vary depending on location, land characteristics, property condition, legal arrangements and surrounding development.

For anyone considering buying a villa in Bali, it is important to evaluate each property individually rather than assuming that a quieter location represents a better purchase.

What to consider: Focus on the property's suitability for long-term living, its legal status, construction quality and overall cost rather than location popularity alone.

6. Is Living Outside the Main Tourist Areas Right for Everyone?

Although quieter areas can offer several advantages, they also come with trade-offs.

Some locations have fewer restaurants, entertainment venues and international facilities. Public transport options may be limited, making private transport necessary for everyday activities. Access to hospitals, schools and other services can also vary considerably between neighbourhoods.

There is also the question of community integration. Living in a more residential or rural area requires an understanding of local customs, community expectations and the importance of respecting Balinese traditions.

For international residents, it is equally important to understand Indonesia's immigration and employment regulations and ensure that their stay and activities comply with the applicable requirements.

Before committing to a location, spending time there is one of the most useful ways to understand what everyday life might actually look like.

What to consider: Test your commute, explore nearby facilities and experience the neighbourhood at different times of day before making a long-term commitment.

Finding the Right Place to Call Home

Bali offers a variety of living environments, from lively coastal neighbourhoods to established residential communities and quieter inland locations. While the island's main tourist destinations continue to attract international interest, they are only part of what makes Bali appealing as a place to live.

For some people, the ideal home is close to restaurants and entertainment. For others, it may be a villa surrounded by greenery, a family-friendly neighbourhood or a quieter coastal community.

Ultimately, choosing where to live in Bali is about understanding your priorities and finding a location that supports the lifestyle you want to build.