Finding the perfect balance between affordability, lifestyle, and connectivity is key for remote workers choosing their next destination. Bali and Portugal are two popular choices among digital nomads, each offering unique experiences. This post dives into the cost of living in both destinations, focusing on accommodation, food, transportation, internet access, coworking spaces, and overall lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to Bali’s tropical allure or Portugal’s European charm, this guide will help you decide which location best fits your remote work lifestyle.
Accommodation Costs
Bali
Bali is known for its wide range of affordable accommodation options. From budget guesthouses to luxurious private villas, there’s something to match everyone’s needs.
- Monthly Costs:
- Budget accommodation (basic room or shared space): $300–$500
- Mid-range villa or apartment (furnished): $700–$1,200
- Premium villa with amenities (private pool, premium furniture): $2,000+
Pros:
- Affordable upscale living
- Access to exotic surroundings like rice fields or beach views
- Many rentals include cleaning services
Cons:
- Negotiation needed for long stays
- Infrastructure in rural areas may lack consistency
Portugal
Portugal’s housing market varies significantly between urban centers like Lisbon and Porto and smaller towns or rural areas. Options range from modern apartments to quaint homes.
- Monthly Costs:
- Budget housing (shared flats): $500–$800
- Mid-range apartment (1 or 2 bedrooms): $1,000–$1,500
- High-end housing (seaside properties): $2,500+
Pros:
- Diverse housing options from historic to new builds
- Access to modern infrastructure and urban conveniences
Cons:
- Limited availability in high-demand cities like Lisbon
- Rising rental costs
Food and Dining
Bali
Food in Bali is incredibly affordable, especially if you stick to local warungs that serve traditional Indonesian meals like nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles).
- Average Costs:
- Local meals (warungs): $1.50–$3
- Mid-range cafes/restaurants offering Western food: $5–$10 per meal
- Monthly groceries (local and imported products): $150–$300
Pros:
- Affordable, flavorful local cuisines
- Thriving cafe culture catering to all dietary preferences
Cons:
- High prices for imported goods
- Western restaurants are comparatively expensive
Portugal
Portugal offers a mix of affordable and gourmet dining options, with its cuisine heavily featuring seafood, fresh produce, and Mediterranean flavors.
- Average Costs:
- Local meals (restaurants or tascas): $8–$12
- Upscale dining or fine-dining restaurants: $25–$50
- Monthly groceries from local markets/supermarkets: $200–$400
Pros:
- High-quality food and drink (don’t skip local wines!)
- Farmers’ markets offer fresh, affordable staples
Cons:
- Regular dining out can add up quickly
Transportation Options
Bali
The most common modes of transportation in Bali are scooters and rideshare apps like Gojek and Grab.
- Monthly Costs:
- Scooter rental: $60–$100
- Fuel for regular use: $10–$20
- Rideshares (short distances): $1–$4 per ride
Pros:
- Affordable and flexible for short trips and exploring
- Stunning scenic routes in rural areas
Cons:
- Riding can be risky due to chaotic traffic
- Limited public transportation options
Portugal
Portugal boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including metros, trams, buses, and intercity trains.
- Monthly Costs:
- Public transportation passes (metro, buses): $45–$55
- Intercity train tickets between major cities (e.g., Lisbon to Porto): $20–$35
- Monthly car rentals for countryside exploration: $300–$500
Pros:
- Well-connected urban and rural areas
- Variety of transportation options
Cons:
- Parking fees can be significant, especially in cities
Internet and Connectivity
For remote workers, staying connected is non-negotiable. Both Bali and Portugal offer reliable internet, though the experiences may differ slightly.
Bali
Internet quality in Bali is generally good in urban hubs like Canggu and Ubud but can be inconsistent in rural areas.
- Speeds:
- Urban areas (Canggu/Ubud): 20–50 Mbps
- Monthly cost for Wi-Fi in accommodations: $20–$40
Pros:
- Strong coworking culture with high-speed internet
- Affordable internet plans
Cons:
- Frequent outages in certain locations
- Slower speeds in less developed areas
Portugal
Portugal features reliable, high-speed internet throughout cities and towns, with fiber-optic service being common.
- Speeds:
- Cities/towns with fiber optics: 50–100 Mbps
- Monthly cost for Wi-Fi in homes/apartments: $30–$50
Pros:
- Excellent internet infrastructure everywhere
- Handles video calls, streaming, and other high-bandwidth activities with ease
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive compared to Bali
Coworking Spaces
Bali
Bali is a hub for digital nomads, and its coworking spaces reflect this. Beyond providing a workspace, they’re great for networking.
- Average Cost:
- Monthly memberships at top spots like Dojo Bali and Outpost range between $100–$200
Pros:
- Trendy spaces double as community hubs
- Often feature stunning settings
Cons:
- Limited options outside urban hubs
Portugal
Portugal’s coworking scene is equally vibrant, particularly in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
- Average Cost:
- Monthly memberships at premium spots like Second Home or Porto i/o range between $150–$300
Pros:
- Modern facilities with reliable internet
- Ideal for professional networking
Cons:
- Pricing is higher, especially in Lisbon
Lifestyle and Cultural Experiences
Beyond practical considerations, lifestyle plays a huge part in your decision.
Bali
Bali’s laid-back, tropical lifestyle includes yoga retreats, surfing, and experiencing the island’s rich spirituality.
- Advantages:
- Vibrant expat communities
- Wellness-focused activities
- Affordable cost of living
Portugal
Portugal offers a more traditional European lifestyle, blending cultural heritage with modern conveniences.
- Advantages:
- Access to historical landmarks and cultural festivals
- Mild Mediterranean climate, perfect for year-round outdoor activities
- Lower crime rates compared to Bali
Visa Options
Both Bali and Portugal offer visa options that cater to remote workers:
- Bali has recently introduced its Digital Nomad Visa, offering up to a year’s stay for remote workers. Verification of income is required.
- Portugal offers the D7 Visa for non-EU citizens with sufficient passive or remote income. It includes the possibility of gaining a residence permit.
What Visas Allow Working and Homeschooling Abroad.
Final Verdict
Both Bali and Portugal have a lot to offer for remote workers. Bali is budget-friendly with a tropical charm, while Portugal combines European sophistication with excellent infrastructure. Your choice will largely depend on your budget and lifestyle preferences.