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Ubud, Indonesia

Data updated Oct 9, 2026

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📊 Scores

62
Retiree
57
Digital Nomad

Best fit: Retiree (score: 60)

Ubud sits at 515 m above sea level on the Indonesian island of Bali, in the Asia/Makassar timezone, and it holds a tropical rainforest climate that stays warm and humid all year with a monsoon season. The town is home to about 30 thousand people, and its nearest airport is DPS, 29 km away. English is common in tourist areas, which makes daily errands easier for newcomers. Expats who settle here tend to choose between the city center and areas outside the center, and that single choice shapes both rent and the rhythm of daily life.

Rent tells the story of that split. A 1-bedroom in the city center runs $544/mo, while the same apartment outside the center drops to $407/mo. Three-bedroom units follow the same pattern: $1,936/mo in the center against $1,396/mo outside it. Utilities average $82/mo, internet $19/mo, and a mobile phone plan $5/mo, with a gym membership at $52/mo. Food is inexpensive by most standards, with a cappuccino at $2 and an inexpensive restaurant meal at $3 per person, while a mid-range restaurant meal for two with three courses comes to $20. Against those costs, the average monthly net salary locally is $168/mo, so a single adult can live on a budget tier of $468/mo, a mid-range tier of $720/mo, or a comfortable tier of $899/mo, all with rent included.

Safety is one of Ubud's quieter strengths. The safety index is 70/100 and the crime index is 28/100, where a lower number means safer conditions. Air quality is also favorable, with an index of 35, lower being better. Healthcare quality is rated fair, which means routine care is manageable but serious or specialized treatment may require travel. Average internet speed is 20 Mbps, enough for everyday browsing, calls, and most remote work, though heavy data users will notice the ceiling.

For longer stays, Indonesia offers the Retirement Visa (KITAS) and the Remote Worker Visa (E33G), each requiring a minimum monthly income of $2,000/mo. Arrival is through DPS, 29 km from town. Ubud scores 60/100 overall for expats, 62/100 for retirees, and 57/100 for digital nomads, so it suits budget-conscious singles, slow travelers, and remote workers who value low costs, warm weather, and a calm base over big-city convenience.

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🏚️ Cost of Living

💰 Budgets and Costs

$736/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle

Ubud on a mid-range budget comes to about $736 a month for one adult, with $407 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $113 on groceries, $28.00 on dining out, $83.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $105 on utilities and connectivity.

Rent

$407/mo

1BR outside the centre

Groceries

$113/mo

Staples basket scaled to a full month

Dining out

$28.00/mo

10 inexpensive meals

Entertainment & lifestyle

$83.00/mo

gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos

Utilities & connectivity

$105/mo

utilities, mobile, internet

Budgets (excl. rent)

Single person$329/mo

Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.

Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.

A 1BR in the center runs about $544.43/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

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🛡️ Safety & Crime

70
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

28
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

Ubud is genuinely safe for expats, with low violent crime and a tight-knit community that actively discourages theft. Main concerns are petty theft (motorbike snatching, bag theft in crowded markets), scams targeting tourists (overpriced tours, fake tickets), and occasional drink-spiking in nightlife areas. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, use registered taxis/Grab, and stick to established neighborhoods like central Ubud and Penestanan. The biggest risk is complacency—locals are friendly but opportunistic theft happens. For a 30-65 American seeking a calm, culturally rich base with manageable precautions, Ubud is a solid choice.

🏥 Healthcare

Fair
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Available

See how Ubud's healthcare compares with Nganjuk

🌤️ Climate

Summer Temp
30°C
Winter Temp
22°C
Humidity
82%
Air Quality Index
35

Best Months

AprMayJunSepOct

Climate Notes

Tropical rainforest climate, warm and humid year-round with a monsoon season.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
20 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$19/mo
Coworking Availability
Abundant
Coworking Spaces Nearby
3
Digital Nomad Score
57/100

Community Notes

Ubud is popular with digital nomads due to its coworking spaces and cultural atmosphere.

Coworking Spaces

NameNotes
HubudA pioneer in Bali's coworking scene, Hubud offers a bamboo-structured space with a strong community vibe, regular events, and a cafe. Located in the heart of Ubud, it's ideal for those seeking a collaborative and eco-conscious work environment.
Outpost UbudOutpost Ubud provides a modern and comfortable workspace with ergonomic chairs, fast internet, and a pool. Situated a bit outside the central Ubud area, it offers a quieter atmosphere with rice field views, perfect for focused work.
Biliq BaliBiliq Bali offers a relaxed and affordable coworking space with a focus on community and collaboration. Located near central Ubud, it features a pool, garden, and various membership options suitable for different needs.
Kinship StudioKinship Studio is a boutique coworking space designed for creatives and entrepreneurs. Located in Penestanan, Ubud, it offers a stylish and inspiring environment with a focus on wellness and community events.

Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).

Planning to live in Ubud long-term? Indonesia Remote Worker Visa (E33G) lets remote workers live legally with a minimum income of $2,000/month.

View full requirements →

Working remotely from Ubud? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.

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See how Ubud's digital nomad life compares with Nganjuk

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
large
Banks Nearby
24
ATMs Nearby
63

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Ubud

Areas of Ubud that expats often consider.

Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.

Ubud Central

Bustling heart of Ubud

The main hub for tourists and expats, offering easy access to restaurants, shops, yoga studios, and cultural performances. Expect higher prices and constant activity. Walkable, but traffic can be intense; scooters are essential for exploring further afield.

Penestanan

Bohemian, artistic, relaxed vibe

Just west of Ubud Central, Penestanan is known for its art studios, rice paddy views, and laid-back atmosphere. Popular with artists, yogis, and long-term expats. Walkable to Ubud center, but quieter and more residential.

Nyuh Kuning

Quiet village, close to Monkey Forest

Located south of Ubud, near the Monkey Forest, Nyuh Kuning offers a more traditional Balinese village experience. Quieter than Ubud Central, but still has restaurants and guesthouses catering to tourists. Good for those seeking a more authentic experience.

Campuhan

Scenic ridge, tranquil, nature-focused

Known for the Campuhan Ridge Walk, this area offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. A bit further from the main action, but easily accessible by scooter. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

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🛂 Visa Options for Indonesia

Indonesia Golden Visa· From $5,000/mo income requiredIndonesia Remote Worker Visa (E33G)· From $2,000/mo income requiredIndonesia Retirement Visa (KITAS)· From $2,000/mo income requiredIndonesia Second Home Visa

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Ubud

Click any question to expand the answer.

Ubud has a population of approximately 30,000 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $1,361 per month in Ubud, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $544/month.
The nearest airport to Ubud is DPS, approximately 28.6km away.
Ubud is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Ubud has an average internet speed of 20 Mbps. It is not yet considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
City center 1BR apartments rent for ~$429/month, but prices rise sharply for tourist-facing areas. Cheaper options ($250–350) exist in surrounding villages like Penestanan or Campuhan, though you'll sacrifice walkability. Tourism inflation means long-term rentals are still pricey compared to other Indonesian towns.
Very frustrating. Taxis operate through local cooperatives with negotiated fares—expect to pay 10x metered rates elsewhere in Bali. A 3km ride costs $3–5 instead of $0.30–0.50. Renting a scooter ($3–5/day) or hiring a driver ($40–60/day) is often cheaper and more reliable than daily taxi haggling.
No traditional job market exists. Most expats run online businesses, teach yoga/English, or live on remote income. Local wages are $5–8/day, inaccessible to visa holders. You need either savings, a digital income stream, or a teaching credential. The expat economy is entirely tourism and service-based.
Ubud is very affordable. You can comfortably live on $1,500-$2,500 USD per month, covering rent, groceries, and dining out. Rent for a villa can range from $400-$1000 depending on location and amenities, while eating at local warungs costs just a few dollars per meal.
Yes, the most common options are the Retirement Visa (requires being 55+ and meeting financial requirements) or the Second Home Visa. The Second Home Visa is a newer option that requires a significant deposit in an Indonesian bank. It's best to consult with a local visa agent for the latest requirements.
Healthcare is decent, but not on par with the US. BIMC Hospital in Nusa Dua (about an hour from Ubud) is a popular choice for expats. Many doctors in Ubud speak English, and you can find them through expat groups or online directories.
Ubud is generally very safe with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur, so be mindful of your belongings. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas. Scams targeting tourists are more common than violent crime.
English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Ubud, so you can easily get by. However, learning basic Indonesian phrases will greatly enhance your experience and show respect to the local culture. Many locals appreciate the effort.
Penestanan and Nyuh Kuning offer more affordable accommodation options compared to the center of Ubud. These areas are still close to amenities and have a relaxed vibe. Consider areas further from the center for even lower prices.
Ubud has a tropical climate with a wet and dry season. The dry season (April to September) is generally sunny and less humid. The wet season (October to March) brings more rain and humidity. Temperatures are consistently warm year-round.
Internet speed in Ubud can be variable. While fiber optic is available in some areas, it's not universal. Check internet speeds before committing to accommodation. Coworking spaces like Hubud offer reliable, high-speed internet.
Ubud has a large and vibrant expat community. It's easy to connect with others through Facebook groups, meetups, and coworking spaces. You'll find people from all over the world with diverse backgrounds and interests.
Embrace local warungs for cheap and delicious meals. Shop at local markets for fresh produce. Negotiate prices when possible, especially for longer-term rentals. Avoid tourist traps and seek out local experiences for better value.
Yes, Ubud is definitely viable for early retirement on $2,000 USD per month, especially if you're comfortable living like a local. You'll need to budget carefully and prioritize your spending, but you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Yes, as a US citizen, you're still required to file US taxes even when living abroad. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) can help you exclude a certain amount of your foreign-earned income from US taxes. Consult with a tax professional specializing in expat taxes.
The quality of life is generally very high. The pace is slower, the people are friendly, and the culture is rich. While there can be frustrations with bureaucracy or traffic, the overall experience is positive, and you can easily navigate daily life speaking English.

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