Why Are the World’s Wealthy Moving to Bali? Exploring Property Investment Bali Trends

Property Investment Bali - Bali has long been a dream destination for surfers, yogis, and honeymooners. But in recent years, the island has taken on a new identity: a home base for global entrepreneurs, wealthy expatriates, and even high-net-worth individuals who once only came here for vacation.

From Luxury lifestyle Bali to villas in Uluwatu and wellness retreats in Ubud, Bali is attracting the world’s affluent not just as tourists, but as residents. So, what’s fueling this migration of wealth to the “Island of the Gods”? And is it really true that billionaires are moving to Bali? Let’s break it down.

Read more:

• https://bvrproperty.com/blogpost/6-types-of-land-use-bali-property-guide 

• https://bvrproperty.com/blogpost/benefits-of-buying-luxury-villa-bali 

• https://bvrproperty.com/blogpost/bali-beach-demolition-villa-investment-risks  

Bali by the Numbers: What the Data Says 

According to Statistics Indonesia (Badan Pusat Statistik – BPS), in July 2025 alone, Bali welcomed 697,107 international tourists. Hotel occupancy for starred hotels reached 67,75% during the same period.

Beyond tourism, the island is also home to a growing expatriate community. Indonesia’s Ministry of Law and Human Rights recorded over 109,000 foreigners residing in Bali under various visa categories. This number reflects not just short-term digital nomads but also long-term investors and high-net-worth residents.

The property market also plays a major role. A study published by Undiksha University highlighted that the property sector contributes around 4% to Bali’s Regional GDP, with Badung Regency alone accounting for nearly 70% of Bali’s rental properties. This is where many Luxury real estate Bali and investment-grade properties are concentrated.

In short, the numbers confirm that Bali isn’t just a holiday stopover; it’s a hub for lifestyle and wealth!

So, Who Are the World’s Wealth for Property Investment Bali? 

Several high-profile names have already made Bali their home. Steven Guo, a California-based entrepreneur, relocated to Bali in 2024 and now runs multiple businesses from the island while spending around $254,000 a year to maintain his lifestyle. 

Navia Nguyen, one of Asia’s first supermodels turned entrepreneurs, splits her time between Brooklyn and Canggu, where she has built a base for her projects. Meanwhile, Maximilian Jencquel, a European designer and architect, has been based in Ubud since 2010, founding Studio Jencquel to create luxury residences and retreats.

Their presence is part of a larger movement of wealthy individuals choosing Bali for lifestyle, privacy, and Luxury lifestyle Bali opportunities. According to Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS), more than 109,000 foreign nationals are recorded living in Bali (Provinsi Bali Dalam Angka 2025), showing how the island has become an attractive long-term base for global elites.

Why Bali Appeals to the Wealthy 

So, what exactly draws the global rich to Bali?

Lifestyle & Privacy 

Bali offers what big cities can’t: private Luxury real estate Bali surrounded by rice fields or perched above clifftop oceans. For the wealthy, this means space, serenity, and exclusivity.

Value for Money 

Compared to Los Angeles, Sydney, or Dubai, property investment Bali can feel like a bargain. A multi-million-dollar villa here often comes with land, staff, and views at a fraction of the global cost.

Global Connectivity 

With Ngurah Rai International Airport offering direct connections across Asia and Australia, and increasing links to Europe, Bali is far less “remote” than many tropical paradises.

Wellness Capital of the World 

From yoga retreats to biohacking clinics, Bali has positioned itself as a center for wellness and alternative lifestyles. For high-net-worth individuals, it’s not just about property; it’s about living better.

A Global Network 

Bali has become a melting pot of entrepreneurs, creatives, and investors. For wealthy expats, it’s not just where they live, it’s where they network and grow their ventures.

The Challenges Nobody Talks About 

But let’s be real: moving to Bali isn’t without its hurdles, even for the wealthy.

Legal Limitations 

Foreigners cannot own land freehold in Indonesia. Instead, they must use leasehold agreements or legal entities under Indonesian law. Missteps here can be costly.

Regulatory Shifts 

The government has been tightening rules around short-term rentals, tourism zoning, and foreign visa compliance (Reuters).

Infrastructure Gaps 

While South Bali has developed roads, internet, and international schools, other areas still face challenges like waste management, traffic, and utilities.

For wealthy people, these challenges are manageable. But they highlight the importance of doing due diligence and working with trusted legal advisors.

Bali’s Future as a Luxury Hub 

Looking ahead, Bali seems poised to grow as a hub for the affluent. With over 400,000 international visitors per month, a stable expat population, and rising property values, the island has what it takes to sustain long-term luxury demand.

For now, Bali may not yet be a full-time home for the likes of Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos. But the arrival of entrepreneurs like Steven Guo, alongside designers, supermodels, and wealthy investors, signals that Bali has officially joined the global luxury lifestyle map.

If you’re considering property investment Bali, working with trusted professionals is key to navigating legal, financial, and lifestyle opportunities.

As one of Bali’s leading property specialists, BVR Property offers expert guidance and exclusive access to premium villas, land, and investment opportunities tailored for high-net-worth individuals. With the right partner, your move to Bali isn’t just a lifestyle choice, it’s a strategic investment for the future.