Bangkok vs Bali: Which City Wins for Expats in 2026?
Bangkok costs roughly 1% less than Bali. Bali scores significantly higher on safety and retiree suitability — worth weighing against the cost gap. Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Bali is approximately 36% less expensive than Bangkok based on cost of living including rent. This makes Bali a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Bali has a FIRE Score of 66/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The city's safety index is 65, which is relatively safe.
Recommended profile: Bali is well-suited for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.
$800/mo
Cost of Living (Without Rent)
Rent Per Month
Attractiveness
City Details
About Bali
Bali is best for retirees seeking a low cost of living, with a Retiree Score of 70/100. A single person can live on a mid-range budget of just $1,800 per month, including rent. The key trade-off is internet speed at only 50 Mbps, which may hinder remote work for digital nomads.
$1,200/mo
Cost of Living (Without Rent)
Rent Per Month
Attractiveness
City Details
Battle of Lifestyles
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| Metric | Bangkok | Bali |
|---|---|---|
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $750 | $550 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $500 | $350 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $1600 | $1200 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $1000 | $800 |
| Safety Index | 55 | 65 |
| Internet Speed | 150Mbps | 50Mbps |
| Walkability Score | N/A | N/A |
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