Comparing the cost of living in Indonesia? Bali and Jakarta are the two places people think of most. One is a sophisticated capital, the other a beachside fairy-tale. However, the real question behind the lifestyles of the two places still remains: What is the cost of renting a home in Jakarta or Bali? The answer to that question varies by the place, the person’s lifestyle, the type of housing, and even the duration of the stay. So, what do the rental markets of these two places really look like?
City vs Island
While Jakarta is characterised by speed, business, and convenience, Bali is all about nature, calm, and is a wellness and tourism hub. Such a huge difference between the two lifestyles results in two entirely different rental markets. Thus, Jakarta provides urban apartments, and Bali provides villas, homestays, and shared accommodation, each having its own price.
Average Rent in Jakarta
Most rentals in Jakarta are apartments, and the prices vary greatly with the location. A small one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can be around IDR 6-8 million per month. In outer or less crowded areas, prices go down along with amenities. Families or working people can afford to pay a lot for modern apartments with a gym, security, parking, and lifts, especially in central business districts.
Average Rent in Bali
A rental housing situation in Bali is a bit more comfortable but also more volatile. The price depends on the area:
● What about seminyak, ubud, and Canggu? These are some of the most expensive places to live.
● Quiet local neighbourhoods come with cheaper rooms or kos-style rentals.
● Villas in particular, those with pools, could be pricey but might just be the perfect solution for long-term stays.
● A mere one-bedroom villa can start from IDR 7 million, with high-end rentals easily going over IDR 15–20 million a month.
Rental Types
Jakarta: Mostly apartments, serviced flats, and studio rooms.
Bali: Villas, guesthouses, homestays, shared houses, and co-living spaces.
While Bali is popular with digital nomads, remote workers, and tourists, Jakarta is popular with professionals and corporate employees, with different main rental types and pricing.
Extra Costs to Consider
Rent is just the tip of the iceberg. Other ordinary costs in both places are:
● Electricity (can be high in Bali due to AC use)
● Water bills
● Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile)
● Maintenance fees
● Cleaning, pool, or garden service (mostly in Bali)
● Security fees in gated communities
Landlords in Bali often require one to six months’ rent paid in advance, thus increasing the initial cost of moving.
Who Pays What?
The different ways of life that are reflected in the different rental budgets:
| Type of Renter | Typical Choice | Rent Range (IDR/month) |
| Budget | Shared room / kos | 2–4 million |
| Mid-range | Apartment / villa | 6–10 million |
| Long-term family | House / 2-bedroom apartment | 10–15 million |
| Luxury | Private villa / penthouse | 20 million+ |
Lifestyle Impact
Bali provides a more pure and natural living with the great outdoors. However, groceries, gas for the car, eating out, and even the electric bill can be a little more costly than you anticipated. On the other hand, housing in Jakarta is more organised, but traffic, pollution, and the lack of space are still some of the most common problems.
Your lifestyle choice, city energy or island calm will decide how much you truly spend every month.
Which Is Better?
It’s not that clear-cut. It depends on what you need:
● If you are looking for career opportunities as well as convenience, then Jakarta would suit you better.
● If you prefer a slower life, then living close to nature in Bali would be a better choice.
● If rent is the only thing you think of, then you’d better stay outside of the main hotspots and get the cheapest places.
Final Thought
The cost of renting in Jakarta and Bali is more than just a number; it is a lifestyle decision. No doubt both places have their ups and downs; however, as far as your budget and priorities are concerned, they are the true factors that will determine where you really belong. Whether it’s the city lights or the ocean views, the real price of living is not just rent, it’s how you choose to live.
Disclaimer: Stay updated with the lastest news, from politics to business trends, while also catching up on the lastest news in sports covering matches, scores, and tournaments. Explore the latest news in entertainment with celebrity updates, movies, and shows, and don’t miss the latest news in games, featuring trending releases and esports highlights.
