Thinking About Moving to Bali?

For many Australians, Bali has long been a favourite holiday destination. Increasingly, however, it's becoming something more permanent.

From young families seeking a lifestyle reset to remote workers chasing flexibility and retirees looking for a new chapter, more Australians are exploring what life on the island could look like beyond a two-week holiday.

Helping many of them navigate that transition is Our Year in Bali, a relocation and consulting service founded by Australian Simone Collins after her own family relocated to Bali for what was originally intended as a one-year adventure.

"We wanted to break free from the Sydney rat race," Simone says. "We had the opportunity to work remotely, and Bali simply made sense for our family."

What began as a personal blog documenting her family's move has since evolved into a relocation business supporting families, retirees and remote workers through the practical realities of moving to Bali. 

Alongside its consulting services, Our Year in Bali has published nearly 180 relocation stories from Australians and expats who have made the move, providing both inspiration and real-world insights for those considering a similar lifestyle change.

Why More Australians Are Considering Bali

The appeal extends well beyond sunshine and beach clubs.

According to Simone, Australians are increasingly drawn to Bali for its lifestyle benefits, flexibility and sense of balance.

"People are looking at quality of life, cost of living and how they want to spend their time," she says. "It's shifted from being a short adventure to something people are genuinely considering long-term."

For families, international schools, proximity to Australia and the ability to work remotely continue to drive interest. For retirees, the appeal is equally strong.

"Retiree interest is booming," Simone says. "Many Australians have loved Bali for years and are now reaching a stage where they're ready to give living here a go."

The Reality Behind the Dream

Living in Bali can offer a slower pace of life, but it isn't without challenges.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that Bali remains as inexpensive as it once was.

"People often arrive expecting Bali to be incredibly cheap," Simone explains. "But for families especially, things like international schooling, housing and lifestyle costs can add up quickly."

Traffic is another adjustment many newcomers underestimate.

While destinations may appear close on a map, travel times can be significantly longer than expected, making location one of the most important decisions for anyone planning a move.

At the same time, some assumptions prove unfounded.

"Healthcare is one of the biggest surprises," says Simone. "People are often nervous about it before they arrive, but they're pleasantly surprised by the quality, accessibility and speed of care available."

Choosing Where to Live

When people picture living in Bali, they often think of Canggu or Ubud. In reality, different areas suit different lifestyles.

Families are increasingly gravitating towards Sanur thanks to its walkability, schools and family-friendly atmosphere, while Ubud appeals to those seeking greenery, wellness and a slower pace. Canggu remains popular for its cafés, co-working spaces and established expat community, while Uluwatu continues to attract surfers and those looking for a more relaxed coastal lifestyle.

"There isn't one perfect location," Simone says. "The right choice depends on your priorities, whether that's schools, beaches, community, accessibility or lifestyle."

More Than a Lifestyle Change

Perhaps the biggest shift for many newcomers isn't practical but cultural.

Simone encourages people to engage with Balinese culture beyond the surface level, whether that's learning basic Bahasa Indonesia, understanding local customs or participating in community events.

"What attracts people to Bali in the first place is the Balinese people," she says. "The culture, gratitude and sense of community are what make the experience so special."

Planning Ahead

For anyone seriously considering a move, Simone's biggest advice is simple: give yourself time.

From researching visas and schools to organising finances, housing and healthcare, relocating to Bali often takes longer than people expect.

"Don't underestimate how much preparation is involved," she says. "The more time you give yourself, the smoother the transition will be."

For many Australians, Bali will always be a place to holiday. For a growing number, it's becoming somewhere to build a different kind of life altogether.