Is Bali Still Cheap? An Honest 2025 Assessment

Less cheap than it was, still good value if you know where to look

Bali had a reputation as one of the world’s most affordable destinations for a long time. Post-pandemic, that reputation needs updating. Some things remain genuinely cheap; others have caught up with international pricing; and the “tourist Bali” of Canggu and Seminyak has its own pricing logic that has little to do with what things actually cost locally.

What’s still genuinely cheap

Warungs (local Indonesian restaurants): IDR 25,000–50,000 for a full meal. Excellent food — nasi goreng, mie goreng, gado-gado, sate — at prices that feel embarrassingly low. These exist everywhere and are the foundation of budget eating in Bali.
Scooter rental: IDR 80,000–100,000/day.
Temple entrance fees: IDR 15,000–50,000 per temple, mostly.
Spa treatments: a 60-minute traditional Balinese massage at a local spa runs IDR 80,000–130,000. The same treatment at a resort spa: IDR 400,000–800,000. Both are cheap by international standards; the warung version is extraordinary value. — book via Localrent for the best deal.

What’s gotten expensive

Canggu accommodation: a decent villa with a pool in central Canggu runs $80–150/night. That’s not cheap. Western restaurants in Canggu and Seminyak: $15–25 for a main course is normal at the popular spots. Drinks at beach clubs (Potato Head, Ku De Ta, Single Fin): $10–15 per cocktail. These prices are comparable to London or Sydney. You’re paying for the vibe and the pool, and if that’s what you want, fine — but it’s not the cheap Bali of popular imagination.

Daily budget reality

Budget (staying simply, eating at warungs): $30–50/day. Mid-range (comfortable private room, mix of eating out): $70–110/day. Comfortable (nice villa, beach clubs occasionally, good restaurants): $150–250/day. Luxury: unlimited ceiling.