For digital nomads, Bali and Thailand are two of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. Both offer affordable living, vibrant expat communities, and stunning landscapes. But which one is better for remote workers in 2025?
This in-depth comparison covers:
✔ Visa options (new digital nomad visas in 2025?)
✔ Cost of living (rent, food, transport)
✔ Internet speed & coworking spaces
✔ Lifestyle & community
✔ Pros and cons of each
Let’s dive in.
1. Bali vs Thailand: Quick Overview
| Factor | Bali, Indonesia | Thailand |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Options | B211a (6 months), KITAS (long-term) | Tourist Visa (60 days), Digital Nomad Visa (coming soon?) |
| Cost of Living | $1,000–$2,000/month | $800–$1,800/month |
| Internet Speed | 30–50 Mbps (fiber available) | 50–100 Mbps (better in cities) |
| Coworking Spaces | Dojo (Canggu), Hubud (Ubud) | Punspace (Chiang Mai), The Hive (Bangkok) |
| Expat Community | Strong (Canggu, Ubud) | Huge (Chiang Mai, Bangkok) |
| Weather | Tropical (wet & dry seasons) | Hot & humid (cooler in north) |
2. Visa Options in 2025
A. Bali (Indonesia) Visa Rules
- B211a Visa (Social/Cultural Visa) – 60 days, extendable to 6 months.
- KITAS (Long-Term Stay Permit) – 1-2 years (requires sponsor).
- Digital Nomad Visa (Rumored for 2025?) – Not confirmed yet.
Pros:
✅ Easy to extend for 6+ months.
✅ No strict financial requirements.
Cons:
❌ No official digital nomad visa yet.
❌ Visa runs may be needed.
B. Thailand Visa Rules
- Tourist Visa (60 days, extendable to 90 days).
- Thailand Elite Visa (5-20 years, expensive).
- New Digital Nomad Visa (Expected in 2025?) – Not yet confirmed.
Pros:
✅ Easy entry for tourists.
✅ Strong rumors of a new digital nomad visa soon.
Cons:
❌ Currently no long-term visa for remote workers.
❌ Border runs may be required.
Verdict:
- Bali wins for now (easier long-term stays).
- Thailand could improve if they launch a digital nomad visa.
3. Cost of Living Comparison
A. Bali (Canggu/Ubud) – $1,000–$2,000/month
✔ Villa Rent: $500–$1,200/month
✔ Food (Local vs Western): $5–$15 per meal
✔ Coworking Space: $100–$200/month
✔ Scooter Rental: $50/month
B. Thailand (Chiang Mai/Bangkok) – $800–$1,800/month
✔ Apartment Rent: $300–$800/month
✔ Food (Street Food vs Restaurants): $2–$10 per meal
✔ Coworking Space: $80–$150/month
✔ Scooter Rental: $60/month
Verdict:
- Thailand is slightly cheaper, especially in Chiang Mai.
- Bali offers more luxury villas but at higher prices.
4. Internet & Coworking Spaces
A. Bali (Best for Creative Nomads)
- Internet Speed: 30–50 Mbps (fiber in Canggu, slower in Ubud).
- Top Coworking Spaces:
- Dojo (Canggu) – Best for networking.
- Hubud (Ubud) – Yoga + coworking combo.
B. Thailand (Best for Fast Internet & Productivity)
- Internet Speed: 50–100 Mbps (excellent in Chiang Mai & Bangkok).
- Top Coworking Spaces:
- Punspace (Chiang Mai) – Reliable & quiet.
- The Hive (Bangkok) – Great for entrepreneurs.
Verdict:
- Thailand wins for faster internet.
- Bali has a more relaxed, creative vibe.
5. Lifestyle & Community
A. Bali (Spiritual, Wellness-Focused)
✔ Pros:
- Strong yoga & wellness culture.
- Beach life (surfing, sunsets).
- Big entrepreneur & influencer scene.
❌ Cons:
- Can feel “too Instagrammy” (overtourism).
- Traffic in Canggu is chaotic.
B. Thailand (Adventure, Food, Affordability)
✔ Pros:
- Best street food in the world.
- More cultural diversity (temples, islands, cities).
- Bigger nomad community (Chiang Mai hub).
❌ Cons:
- Air pollution in Chiang Mai (burning season).
- Stricter visa rules than Bali.
Verdict:
- Bali for wellness & networking.
- Thailand for food, culture, and adventure.
6. Where Should You Live in 2025?
Choose Bali If You…
✅ Want a wellness-focused lifestyle (yoga, surfing).
✅ Prefer longer-term visa options.
✅ Don’t mind higher costs for luxury villas.
Choose Thailand If You…
✅ Need faster internet & lower costs.
✅ Love street food & cultural exploration.
✅ Want a bigger digital nomad community.
7. FAQs: Bali vs Thailand for Digital Nomads
1. Which is cheaper, Bali or Thailand?
Thailand (especially Chiang Mai) is slightly cheaper than Bali.
2. Where is the internet better?
Thailand has faster and more reliable internet.
3. Which has better coworking spaces?
Bali (Dojo, Hubud) for networking; Thailand (Punspace) for productivity.
4. Is Bali or Thailand better for long-term stays?
Bali (easier visa extensions).
5. Where is the expat community stronger?
Thailand (especially Chiang Mai).
Conclusion
Both Bali and Thailand are fantastic for digital nomads, but the best choice depends on your priorities:
- Bali = Wellness, luxury villas, influencer scene.
- Thailand = Affordability, fast internet, big nomad hubs.
Final Tip: Try both! Many nomads split time between Chiang Mai (dry season) and Bali (winter).
Where will YOU base yourself in 2025? Comment below!
Further Reading:
Written by Asif, an experienced researcher helping People’s to navigate visas and work abroad opportunities.
Explore more visa guides on LiveAbroadGuide.com
Read Our Latest Blog About: 25+ Top Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas in 2025
