Last Updated on March 10, 2025 by Yasmina
Lombok is quickly gaining attention as one of Indonesia’s best places to live, offering a slower pace of life, stunning beaches, and a lower cost of living than Bali. Whether you’re an expat, retiree, digital nomad, or investor looking for a second home, choosing the right location is key to enjoying everything the island has to offer.
So, where should you live in Lombok? The answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. This guide breaks down the best places for where to live in Lombok, highlighting their unique advantages and what you can expect in each area.
Table of Contents
1. Kuta Lombok – The Heart of the Action
Best for: Expats, digital nomads, surfers, and entrepreneurs
✔️ Vibrant expat community
✔️ Trendy cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces
✔️ Close to beautiful beaches like Tanjung Aan & Selong Belanak
Why live in Kuta Lombok?
Kuta is Lombok’s most developed town, offering a mix of modern conveniences and laid-back island life. It’s the go-to area for expats who want a social lifestyle with easy access to international food, nightlife, and high-speed internet.
Property in Lombok prices: Mid to high-range; beachfront and hilltop villas can be pricey.
Who it’s for: Those who want a Bali-like lifestyle but with fewer crowds.
Tip: If you’re an entrepreneur or looking to start a business, Kuta is the best place to network and grow opportunities.
2. Selong Belanak – Luxury & Peaceful Living
Best for: Luxury homebuyers, retirees, and nature lovers
✔️ Exclusive high-end villas with ocean views
✔️ Peaceful, low-density living with luxury resorts
✔️ One of the most beautiful beaches in Lombok
Why live in Selong Belanak?
If you’re looking for luxury and tranquility, Selong Belanak offers breathtaking ocean views and stunning modern villas. This area is ideal for those who want privacy while still being close enough to Kuta for dining and shopping.
Property in Lombok prices: Higher than most areas due to exclusivity and oceanfront land.
Who it’s for: Investors, retirees, and those seeking a luxury retreat.
Tip: This area is rapidly growing in popularity—buying property now could offer strong capital appreciation.
3. Gerupuk & Are Guling – Surf & Adventure Hotspots
Best for: Surfers, adventure seekers, and digital nomads
✔️ World-class surf breaks
✔️ Affordable land and housing options
✔️ Laid-back, off-the-grid lifestyle
Why live in Gerupuk & Are Guling?
These areas attract hardcore surfers and adventure lovers who want to be close to some of the best waves in Indonesia. It’s still less developed than Kuta, offering a more authentic and relaxed vibe.
Property in Lombok prices: Lower than Kuta but increasing as interest grows.
Who it’s for: Those who prioritize outdoor lifestyle over modern comforts.
Tip: Gerupuk has better infrastructure, while Are Guling offers more secluded villas and raw nature.
4. The Gili Islands – Beachfront Island Living
Best for: Remote workers, retirees, and tourism investors
✔️ Crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches
✔️ No cars—only bicycles and horse carts
✔️ Strong rental market and tourism demand
Why live in the Gili Islands?
If you dream of island living, the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno) offer a unique experience. Gili T is known for nightlife, Gili Air is perfect for laid-back expats, and Gili Meno is ideal for complete peace and seclusion.
Property prices: Mid-range, but beachfront land is pricey.
Who it’s for: Those who love the ocean, diving, and island vibes.
Tip: If you work online and don’t need frequent trips to Lombok’s mainland, the Gili Islands are a great option.
5. Senggigi – Traditional Expat Favorite
Best for: Families, retirees, and those seeking a quieter alternative to Bali
✔️ Well-established expat community
✔️ Access to schools, hospitals, and supermarkets
✔️ Stunning coastal views and sunset beaches
Why live in Senggigi?
Once the main tourist hub of Lombok, Senggigi has slowed down in recent years but remains one of the best areas for long-term expat living. It’s a great choice if you prefer a quiet lifestyle with access to modern amenities.
Property in Lombok prices: Affordable, with good long-term investment potential.
Who it’s for: Families and retirees looking for stability and convenience.
Tip: Senggigi is perfect for those who want Bali’s amenities but with a lower cost of living.
6. North Lombok – Off-the-Grid & Eco-Living
Best for: Eco-conscious individuals, permaculture enthusiasts, and retirees
✔️ Lush jungles, waterfalls, and quiet beaches
✔️ Low land prices for sustainable living
✔️ Cooler climate in the mountains
Why live in North Lombok?
If you’re looking for seclusion, nature, and eco-living, North Lombok offers affordable land and untouched landscapes. The area is becoming popular for eco-resorts, off-grid homes, and permaculture farms.
Property in Lombok prices: Lower than South Lombok, with great long-term potential.
Who it’s for: Those who want to disconnect from city life and live sustainably.
Tip: Expect less infrastructure and limited access to expat-friendly businesses.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Live in Lombok?
Your ideal location in Lombok depends on your lifestyle, budget, and investment goals. Here’s a quick summary:
| Area | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Kuta | Expats, digital nomads, nightlife | $$$ |
| Selong Belanak | Luxury buyers, retirees | $$$$ |
| Gerupuk & Are Guling | Surfers, adventure lovers | $$ |
| Gili Islands | Beach lovers, remote workers | $$$ |
| Senggigi | Families, retirees, stability | $$ |
| North Lombok | Off-grid living, eco-retreats | $ |
No matter where you choose, Lombok offers an affordable and exciting alternative to Bali—with less traffic, more space, and a relaxed island atmosphere.
If you’re considering moving to Lombok, visit different areas to get a feel for the lifestyle before making your decision.
FAQs: Where to Live in Lombok?
1. Is Lombok cheaper to live in than Bali?
Yes! Lombok has lower property prices, rental rates, and daily expenses compared to Bali.
2. Where do most expats live in Lombok?
Kuta and Selong Belanak are the most popular areas for expats, digital nomads, and investors.
3. Can foreigners buy property in Lombok?
Foreigners cannot own land directly but can lease land (Hak Sewa) or invest through a PT PMA (foreign-owned company).
4. What is the best area for retirees in Lombok?
Senggigi and Selong Belanak offer peaceful living, good infrastructure, and beautiful beaches.
5. Is Lombok safe for expats?
Yes, Lombok is safe, welcoming, and has a growing expat community, especially in South Lombok.
About Nour Estates
We started Nour Estates with a simple idea: to make finding your dream land in Lombok as easy and enjoyable as a day at the beach. Our team is a mix of local folks and people from around the world who fell in love with Lombok like you. We’ve been in your shoes, faced the challenges of buying land here, and learned all the ins and outs. Now, we’re here to share that knowledge with you.
We are here to find you the perfect land to invest in. Contact us today, and let’s start this exciting journey together!
Email: [email protected]
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