If you’re considering moving to Lombok, spending part of the year here, or simply curious about daily life costs, the big question is simple:
How much does it actually cost to live in Lombok?
The short answer: it depends on your lifestyle.
The longer answer: Lombok can be very affordable—or comfortably premium—without ever reaching the extremes seen in more saturated destinations.
This guide breaks down real monthly costs for housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare, and lifestyle, based on what we see on the ground in 2025.
What is the real cost to live in Lombok?
This flows naturally from your existing sentence.
Average Monthly Cost of Living in Lombok (Quick Overview)
| Lifestyle | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Local-style living | $600 – $900 |
| Comfortable expat lifestyle | $1,000 – $1,600 |
| Premium / villa lifestyle | $1,800 – $2,800+ |
These numbers assume one person. Couples typically spend less per person, while families spend more depending on schooling and housing.
Housing Costs in Lombok
Housing is usually the biggest monthly expense—and also where Lombok offers the most flexibility.
Monthly Rent (Long-Term)
| Property Type | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Simple local house | $250 – $400 |
| 1-bedroom apartment or studio | $400 – $700 |
| 1–2 bedroom villa (no staff) | $700 – $1,200 |
| Modern villa with pool | $1,200 – $2,000+ |
Key notes:
- Long-term rentals are far cheaper than short-term Airbnb rates
- Prices vary significantly by location (Kuta, Selong Belanak, quieter villages)
- Electricity is usually paid separately
Food & Groceries
Food costs in Lombok depend heavily on whether you eat local, cook at home, or dine out frequently.
Monthly Food Budget
| Category | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Local warungs (daily meals) | $150 – $250 |
| Mixed local & Western food | $250 – $400 |
| Mostly cafés & restaurants | $400 – $600+ |
Grocery Snapshot
- Local produce: very affordable
- Imported items: noticeably more expensive
- Cooking at home can reduce monthly costs significantly
Transportation Costs
Lombok is not a walk-everywhere island. Most people use scooters or drivers.
Transport Expenses
| Transport Type | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Scooter rental | $50 – $80 |
| Fuel | $15 – $25 |
| Occasional driver | $50 – $150 |
| Car + driver (regular use) | $300 – $600 |
Owning a scooter is inexpensive long-term, but rentals are common for newcomers.
Utilities & Internet
Utilities are generally affordable, but electricity can vary depending on air-conditioning use.
| Utility | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $40 – $120 |
| Water | $5 – $15 |
| Internet (fiber) | $30 – $50 |
| Mobile data | $10 – $20 |
Villas with pools and multiple AC units will naturally sit at the higher end.
Healthcare & Insurance
Basic healthcare in Lombok is affordable. Many expats pair local care with international insurance.
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Local clinic visit | $10 – $30 |
| Private hospital visit | $30 – $80 |
| International health insurance | $80 – $200/month |
For major procedures, some residents travel to Bali or Singapore.
Lifestyle & Extras
This category varies widely depending on how you spend your time.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Gym / yoga | $30 – $80 |
| Surf lessons | $30 – $50 per session |
| Coworking space | $80 – $150 |
| Weekend trips | Variable |
Many people choose Lombok precisely because a good lifestyle doesn’t require constant spending.
Cost of Living in Lombok: Example Budgets
Single Person (Comfortable Lifestyle)
- Rent: $800
- Food: $350
- Transport: $100
- Utilities & internet: $100
- Lifestyle: $150
Total: ~$1,500/month
Couple (Shared Villa)
- Rent: $1,200
- Food: $500
- Transport: $150
- Utilities & internet: $150
- Lifestyle: $200
Total: ~$2,200/month (~$1,100 per person)
Is Lombok Expensive to Live In?
Lombok is not expensive, but it’s also not “ultra-cheap” if you want comfort.
What makes Lombok attractive is flexibility:
- You can live simply and spend very little
- Or choose comfort, space, and privacy without extreme costs
- Your budget scales with your lifestyle—not the other way around
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Lombok?
Most expats are comfortable with $1,200–$1,600 per month.
Is Lombok cheaper than other Indonesian destinations?
Yes, especially for housing and daily expenses, though imported goods cost more.
Can you live in Lombok on $1,000 per month?
Yes, with a modest lifestyle and local food.
Is Lombok affordable for families?
Yes, though schooling and larger villas increase costs.
Is it cheaper to rent long-term?
Absolutely. Long-term rentals can be 40–60% cheaper than short-term stays.
Final Thoughts
Lombok offers something rare: a lifestyle that feels spacious and grounded without requiring a high monthly budget.
Whether you’re planning a move, a long stay, or simply comparing options, understanding real costs helps you make better decisions—and avoid surprises.
If you want guidance on where to live, what budget makes sense, or how living costs connect to property investment, the team at Sandays Lombok is happy to share real, on-the-ground insight.
