Denpasar

๐Ÿ’ฐ

Affordable Living

Sections

Guide to Affordable Living in Denpasar, Indonesia

1. Cost of Living

  • Overall Affordability: Denpasar offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to many Western cities. Monthly expenses can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on lifestyle choices.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). As of October 2023, the exchange rate is approximately 15,000 IDR to 1 USD.

2. Housing Options

  • Rent:
    • Apartments: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $200 to $400 per month. Outside the center, prices can drop to $150 to $300.
    • Shared Housing: Renting a room in a shared house can be as low as $100 to $200.
  • Local Considerations: Many expats choose to live in local neighborhoods to save costs and immerse themselves in Balinese culture.

3. Transportation

  • Public Transport:
    • Buses: The Trans Sarbagita bus system is affordable, with fares around 3,500 IDR ($0.25) per trip.
    • Biking and Scooters: Renting a scooter is common, costing about $50 to $70 per month. Fuel is inexpensive.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Services like Gojek and Grab are widely used and affordable for short distances.

4. Food Expenses

  • Local Cuisine: Eating at local warungs (small restaurants) can cost as little as 20,000 IDR ($1.30) for a meal.
  • Groceries: Monthly grocery costs for one person can range from $100 to $200, depending on dietary preferences.
  • International Options: Dining at Western restaurants is pricier, with meals averaging $5 to $15.

5. Healthcare Affordability

  • Local Healthcare: Basic healthcare services are affordable. A visit to a general practitioner can cost around 200,000 IDR ($13).
  • Health Insurance: Consider local health insurance plans, which can be significantly cheaper than international options, often ranging from $20 to $50 per month.

6. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Community and Lifestyle: Denpasar has a vibrant local culture, with numerous festivals and community events that are often free or low-cost.
  • Language: While Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, many locals in tourist areas speak English, easing communication.
  • Local Markets: Shopping at traditional markets not only supports local businesses but also offers fresh produce at lower prices compared to supermarkets.

7. Additional Benefits

  • Natural Environment: Proximity to beaches and natural attractions enhances quality of life without significant travel costs.
  • Expat Community: A growing expat community provides networking opportunities and shared resources for living affordably.

Conclusion

Living in Denpasar can be both economical and enriching. The combination of low living costs, affordable housing, and access to local culture makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle. Embracing local customs and engaging with the community can further enhance the experience.