Digital Nomad Bali vs Thailand: Which is the Better Choice for Remote Work in 2025?

The life of a digital nomad is all about finding the right balance between work and lifestyle. For years, Bangkok has been a hotspot for digital nomads due to its thriving city life, affordable living, and bustling coworking spaces. However, in recent years, an increasing number of remote workers have been making the move from Thailand’s busy streets to the more laid-back, beach-centric lifestyle of Bali.

So why are digital nomads opting for Bali over Bangkok in 2025? What makes Bali the perfect place for those looking to work remotely while enjoying the beach, nature, and a tight-knit community? Let’s dive into how Bali has become the new favorite destination for digital nomads and what makes it stand out compared to Thailand.

Bali vs Thailand for Digital Nomads: Key Factors to Consider

For digital nomads based in Thailand, particularly in cities like Chiang Mai or Bangkok, moving to Bali can seem like a big change. But when you break down the factors that truly matter for remote work — like internet speed, coworking spaces, cost of living, and community — Bali has steadily become a favorite.

1. Wi-Fi & Infrastructure: Connection That Matters

Bali has made significant strides in its digital infrastructure. The internet connection is generally reliable, particularly in key areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud. These areas have fiber-optic connections, and several places are equipped with 4G coverage. However, in rural areas, connectivity can still be a bit unreliable during peak times, and occasional power cuts may occur.

On the other hand, Thailand has excellent Wi-Fi coverage, especially in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, which are known for their modern infrastructure and tech-friendly environment. The city of Bangkok has one of the fastest and most reliable internet speeds in Asia, making it ideal for digital nomads who rely heavily on connectivity. However, the downside of urban living in Thailand is the heavy traffic and congestion, which can disrupt your daily work routine.

2. Co-working Spaces: Work with a View or in the Heart of the Action

Bali is rapidly becoming one of the world’s top destinations for digital nomads, thanks in part to its thriving coworking scene. Cities like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud are home to well-equipped spaces. These coworking spaces not only provide high-speed internet and comfortable work environments but also host regular events, workshops, and meetups to help digital nomads network and grow their businesses. The best part? These spaces are often located in scenic areas, offering views of rice fields or the ocean to help you relax after a productive day of work.

In contrast, Thailand’s coworking scene is more established in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with spaces offering great facilities for remote work. However, while these spaces are excellent, they are often more focused on the business aspect and can sometimes lack the relaxed, nature-centric atmosphere that Bali is known for.

3. Cost of Living: A Budget-Friendly Escape

Bali is known for its relatively low cost of living, which makes it an attractive choice for digital nomads. You can easily find affordable accommodation, food, and transportation options, especially in areas like Canggu or Ubud. A shared villa can cost around IDR 5,000,000 – IDR 7,000,000 per month (USD 350 – USD 500), while a private villa can range from IDR 10,000,000 – IDR 20,000,000 (USD 650 – USD). Prices fluctuate depending on the location and villa size, but Bali remains an affordable option compared to other popular destinations.

Living in Bangkok or Chiang Mai can be a bit more expensive, especially in the popular areas. While Bangkok offers more affordable accommodation in the form of apartments or shared housing, costs in tourist-heavy areas can add up quickly. Eating out in Bangkok is cheap, but expats often find themselves paying a premium in tourist areas. Still, Thailand offers various budget options, especially in Chiang Mai, where you can live affordably while enjoying the city’s vibrant expat community.

Read more: Digital Nomad Visa: The Guide to Working Remotely From Bali

4. The Bali Expat Community: A Thriving Network

When it comes to building a community, Bali offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for digital nomads.

Bali is known for its strong digital nomad community. Expats, freelancers, and entrepreneurs from all over the world come together to work and socialize. Many coworking spaces host regular networking events, skill-sharing sessions, and social mixers. The lifestyle here encourages a balanced, work-play approach, with plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. Additionally, there are Facebook groups like Bali Digital Nomads and Expat Life in Bali, where newcomers can find information, meet others, and get recommendations on everything from the best local eateries to business advice.

Thailand also has a large expat community, especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. However, the fast pace of life in cities like Bangkok can make it harder for digital nomads to form lasting connections. That said, cities like Chiang Mai offer a more relaxed environment, where digital nomads can thrive and network with fellow expats.

Bali’s Digital Nomad Visa: A New Era for Remote Workers

In 2025, Indonesia is expected to introduce a specific Digital Nomad Visa to cater to remote workers who want to live and work in Bali for extended periods. While currently, digital nomads can take advantage of Visa on Arrival (VoA), which can be extended up to 60 days, the new visa will make it easier for remote workers to stay for one or more years without worrying about frequent renewals. This visa is part of Indonesia’s effort to tap into the growing digital nomad trend and provide a more stable living environment for long-term residents.

In contrast, Thailand has a Digital Nomad Visa available, but it requires specific income levels and may come with more restrictions, making Bali an increasingly attractive option for those seeking long-term stability. As the visa options for Bali expand, it’s expected that even more remote workers will flock to the island.

Bali vs Thailand: The Ultimate Remote Work Destination

Bali and Thailand offer unique advantages for digital nomads, but Bali has become the preferred destination for those seeking a balance of productivity, community, and lifestyle.

• Internet Speed: Thailand is a clear winner in terms of high-speed internet, especially in Bangkok. However, Bali’s growing infrastructure and fiber-optic internet make it a close contender.
• Coworking Spaces: Bali’s coworking scene is vibrant and heavily focused on lifestyle, making it ideal for digital nomads who want to network, grow, and maintain work-life balance.
• Cost of Living: Bali’s cost of living is lower, making it more affordable for remote workers looking for a great lifestyle on a budget.
• Visa Options: While Thailand has introduced a digital nomad visa, Bali is expected to roll out its own Digital Nomad Visa, which will provide longer stays and fewer complications.

Read more: Relocate from Thailand to Bali 2025

Bali vs Thailand for Digital Nomads in 2025

While Thailand has long been a popular destination for digital nomads, Bali offers a more relaxed, community-driven environment that’s perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant nomadic scene. Bali offers better long-term visa options, more reliable internet, and a more affordable lifestyle—especially if you’re ready to move to places like Canggu or Ubud.

If you’re currently living in Thailand and considering a move to Bali, there’s never been a better time. With the various visa options and a thriving remote work community, Bali offers an excellent alternative to Thailand’s more short-term visa requirements.

Ready to Make the Move to Bali?

If you’re ready to trade the hustle and bustle of Bangkok for Bali’s serene beaches, we at Bali Premium Trip are here to help with every step of your relocation from Thailand to Bali. From securing your visa to finding the perfect villa and coworking space, our concierge-level service ensures your move is seamless. Whether you’re moving from Thailand or anywhere else, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today, and let us help you start your new chapter as a digital nomad in Bali with our relocation service!