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Bali vs Bangkok: Cost of Living Compared

A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Bali (Indonesia) and Bangkok (Thailand). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.

CategoryBaliBangkok
CountryIndonesiaThailand
CurrencyIDR (Rp)THB (฿)
1BR Rent RangeRp6,500,000 - Rp18,000,000฿12,000 - ฿55,000Cheaper
2BR Rent RangeRp11,000,000 - Rp30,000,000฿20,000 - ฿85,000Cheaper
Groceries / moRp2,800,000฿8,000Cheaper
Transport Pass / moRp800,000฿2,500Cheaper
Dining Out / moRp2,000,000฿5,000Cheaper
English Level4/5 (Good)Cheaper3/5 (Moderate)
Neighborhoods Tracked45
Healthcare SystemBPJS (Public) + PrivatePublic + Private

Verdict

Overall, Bangkok tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use different currencies, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.

Explore Bali

4 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Indonesia

View Bali details

Explore Bangkok

5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Thailand

View Bangkok details

Calculate your salary in both cities

Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Bali and Bangkok.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bali or Bangkok cheaper to live in?

Based on our data, Bangkok is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle.

What is rent like in Bali vs Bangkok?

In Bali, 1-bedroom rents range from Rp6,500,000 to Rp18,000,000 per month across 4 neighborhoods. In Bangkok, 1-bedroom rents range from ฿12,000 to ฿55,000 per month across 5 neighborhoods.

How do transport costs compare in Bali vs Bangkok?

A monthly public transport pass costs Rp800,000 in Bali and ฿2,500 in Bangkok. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.

Which city is better for expats, Bali or Bangkok?

Bali has an English proficiency rating of 4/5 (Good) and Bangkok rates 3/5 (Moderate). Bali uses BPJS (Public) + Private healthcare, while Bangkok uses Public + Private. Both factors are important for expats considering a move.

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Updated Mar 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data