Moving to Bali With Kids: What It’s Really Like (From a Mom Living Here)

Thinking about moving to Bali with kids?

It can sound like a dream - more time outside, a slower pace, and a different way of living.

But once you seriously consider it, the questions come up quickly.

What does daily life actually look like?Is it practical with a child?What works well - and what’s more challenging than expected?

I’ve lived in Bali for 6+ years and had my child here - so I’ve experienced both sides.

Here’s a real, balanced look at what life here is like with a child.

Where you live changes everything

Your experience in Bali depends heavily on location.

In busy areas like Canggu, you’ll notice:

• traffic

• ongoing construction

• a more hectic, touristic environment

  
  

If you move slightly outside (e.g. Seseh, Kedungu), things often feel:

• quieter

• more spacious

• more family-friendly

And in more rural parts of Bali, you can still find the natural beauty many people imagine.

What daily life feels like

Life here is less structured and more flexible than in most Western countries.

At times, that can feel challenging - especially with a child.

But it also creates a very different kind of lifestyle:

• children spend a lot of time outdoors

• the warm weather makes daily life simpler (no seasons, no heavy routines)

• days can feel slower and less rushed

It’s not necessarily easier - just different.

What makes life here easier

There are some aspects of parenting in Bali that many people find surprisingly supportive:

• Affordable childcare → having a nanny is realistic for many families

• Warm culture around children → kids are welcomed everywhere

• More help in daily life → cleaning, food delivery, and errands are accessible

• Outdoor lifestyle → beaches, nature, and space to explore

Many parents find that this creates more time and mental space in everyday life.

Things that are more challenging than expected

This is the part that often gets overlooked.

Some common challenges:

• Traffic and transport → getting around can take time

• Air quality → in some areas, trash burning and pollution can be an issue

• Healthcare limitations → for complex cases, people often travel abroad

• Schooling costs → good international schools are available but expensive

• Infrastructure → not very stroller-friendly in many places

• Distance from family → being far from your support system can feel heavy

These aren’t dealbreakers - but they shape your experience.

Things to be aware of

A few practical realities to consider:

• tap water is not drinkable

• admin processes (visas, paperwork) can take time

• things often work differently than you might be used to

• building a support network takes effort

So… is it a good idea?

For some families, Bali is an incredible place to live with a child.

For others, it feels more challenging than expected.

It really depends on:

• your expectations

• your flexibility

• where you choose to live

• the kind of lifestyle you’re looking for

If you’re considering it

If you’re in the phase of thinking this through and want a clearer, more realistic picture:

You can book a 1:1 Bali Relocation Consultation here:

Book Your Consultation Here

We go through your situation and questions, so you can decide what actually makes sense for you.