Often called the “Island of the Gods,” Bali has long captivated visitors with its lush landscapes, sacred temples, and deeply rooted culture. Known for its natural beauty and warm, welcoming locals, the island was once a retreat for surfers, backpackers, and yoga seekers. In the 1960s–70s, Australians and Westerners helped popularize Bali through surf tourism, creating a lasting image of it as a carefree escape. By 2025, Bali has become one of the world’s top destinations for digital nomads, thanks to its modern infrastructure, thriving co-working communities, affordable cost of living, healthy lifestyle, and supportive visa policies.
However, how did this island in Indonesia become a cornerstone of the digital nomad economy?
1. Affordable and Convenient Lifestyle
Bali offers a high quality of life at a much lower cost than most Western cities, from $2 local meals to stylish villas and vibrant cafés. Getting around is effortless with apps like Gojek and Grab, offering rides, food delivery, groceries, and even massages on demand.
Reliable high-speed internet is widely available, especially in co-working hubs and cafes across areas like Canggu and Uluwatu, making it easy to stay productive.
2. Vibrant Digital Nomad Community and Networking Opportunities
Bali’s digital nomad community is one of the most diverse and active in the world. Entrepreneurs, creatives, and remote workers connect through co-working spaces, meetups, workshops, and social events.
It’s easy to make friends, build community, and find potential collaborators or business partners. More than just a place to work, Bali often feels like a second home — with endless opportunities to connect, grow, and stay inspired.
3. Rich Culture
Bali’s deep spiritual roots and rich cultural heritage are constant sources of creativity, mindfulness, and inspiration, essential for a healthy remote work lifestyle.
Daily life is filled with vibrant ceremonies, gamelan music, and temple offerings, giving you the chance to experience Balinese culture beyond the surface. The Nyepi Day of Silence, a unique island-wide day of reflection and stillness, offers a rare pause from the modern world, a truly unforgettable experience.
4. Supportive Government Policies and Emerging Digital Nomad Visa
Indonesia launched the E33G Digital Nomad Visa, allowing remote workers to live in Bali for up to 1 year while working for companies based outside the country. With clear legal status, flexible re-entry, and affordable application fees, it’s a major step forward in supporting long-term digital nomad living in Bali.
5. Healthy Lifestyle
Bali is the perfect place to live well and stay well. From fresh organic markets to plant-based cafés and smoothie bars, healthy choices are everywhere. Wellness isn’t a trend here — it’s a way of life.
Gyms like Nirvana, Omni, and Body Factory combine fitness, co-working, and social spaces — so you can train, work, and connect, all under one roof. It’s common to meet other nomads through group classes, community events, recovery lounges, or even just casual chats at the café.
The rise of run clubs across Canggu and Uluwatu has also become a popular way to make friends, network, and even spark new business ideas — proving that in Bali, community and wellness go hand in hand.
6. Diverse Living Option for Every Taste
Whether you prefer the beach vibe of Canggu or Seminyak or the spiritual calm of Ubud, or the luxury lifestyle of Uluwatu, Bali offers a wide range of living experiences to suit every preference.
Digital nomads can choose from guesthouses, shared co-living spaces, or private villas, depending on budget and lifestyle. For those planning to stay long term, leasehold and freehold property options are also available, offering more permanent setups for remote workers who want to truly call Bali home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the internet speed and work setup in Bali?
Bali has reliable high-speed internet, especially in hubs like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak. There are also numerous co-working spaces and even gyms with built-in workspaces, making it easy to stay productive from anywhere.
Where do most digital nomads live in Bali?
Popular areas include:
- Canggu/Seminyak – for beach surfing life, co-working, and social events community.
- Uluwatu – known for upscale living, stunning cliffside views, and easy access to vibrant cafes and world-class surf spots perfect for catching sunrise and sunset waves.
- Ubud – for nature, spirituality, creativity, and healing social events.
Final Thoughts
As Bali continues to rise as a top destination for digital nomads in 2025, it’s not just a great place to live and work — it’s also a smart place to invest.
With increasing demand for long-term stays, co-living spaces, and lifestyle-focused properties, real estate in Bali offers strong ROI potential for those ready to take the next step.
At 8 Degree Real Estate, we specialize in helping remote professionals and international investors find, secure, and grow property assets in Bali — whether it’s a panoramic rice-field villa in Ubud or a modern rental property in Canggu.
