5 Best Cities in Indonesia for Expat Education
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Published on January 14, 2026 · 5 min read · by Ilham Budiman

best cities in Indonesia for expat education

Best cities in Indonesia for expat education are an important consideration for foreign families who plan to live and work in the country.

Indonesia offers many education options for expats, especially in large cities where international communities continue to grow.

Choosing the right city can help expat families find quality schools, a comfortable lifestyle, and a supportive environment for their children’s learning journey.

Below are some of the best cities in Indonesia that are well known for strong expat education in Indonesia, complete with international schools and family-friendly facilities.

5 Best Cities in Indonesia for Expat Education

1. Jakarta

Unsplash/Eko Herwantoro

Jakarta is often seen as the top choice when talking about best cities in Indonesia for expat education.

As the capital city, Jakarta offers the widest range of international schools in Indonesia, including British, American, Australian, IB, and other international curricula.

Many of the cities with best international schools in Indonesia are concentrated in South Jakarta and nearby areas such as Tangerang and Bekasi.

These locations are also popular residential zones for expatriates, where international schools are often built close to established housing areas and modern apartments.

One example is The Elements Apartment, which is located in a strategic area of South Jakarta and surrounded by various international schools, offices, and daily amenities.

This close distance between schools and residential areas makes Jakarta one of the most expat friendly cities in Indonesia, supported by international hospitals, secure housing compounds, and diverse global communities.

However, families should carefully consider the cost of international schools in Indonesia, as tuition fees in Jakarta are generally higher compared to other cities.

2. Bali

Bali is one of the best places to live in Indonesia for expats with children who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle.

The island offers several well-known international school options for expats in Indonesia, especially in areas like Denpasar, Ubud, and Canggu.

Many families choose Bali for its balance between education and quality of life.

Schools in Bali often focus on creativity, environmental awareness, and holistic learning.

This makes Bali one of the best cities for expat families in Indonesia who value alternative education styles alongside academic learning.

Many international schools in Bali are located close to popular residential areas, making daily routines more comfortable for expat families.

One example is Tondano Villa Sanur, a residential area in Sanur that is well connected to international schools, beaches, and essential facilities.

This location is often chosen by families who want a calm living environment while staying close to quality education options.

3. Surabaya

Unsplash/Kristian Tandjung

Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, is gaining attention for education for expats in Indonesia.

Compared to Jakarta, Surabaya offers more affordable living costs while still providing good expat schooling options in Indonesia.

The city has several international schools that follow international curricula, making it suitable for families seeking quality education without extremely high tuition fees.

Surabaya is also known as a calm and organized city, which appeals to families looking for stability and comfort.

4. Bandung

Bandung is often called an education city due to its many universities and schools.

While smaller than Jakarta, Bandung is becoming one of the best cities in Indonesia for families who prefer a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

There are growing international school options for expats in Indonesia in Bandung, especially for early childhood and primary education.

Several of these schools are located near central and well-developed residential areas.

One example is Landmark Residence Apartment, which offers convenient access to schools, city facilities, and lifestyle centers in Bandung.

The city’s cooler climate and creative atmosphere make Bandung attractive for families who enjoy arts, culture, and nature.

This combination of education access and livable housing makes Bandung a suitable choice for expat families seeking quality learning in a calmer urban setting.

5. Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is well known as a student city and cultural center.

While international school choices are more limited, the city still offers quality education for expats in Indonesia, especially for families interested in cultural exposure.

Yogyakarta is one of the most affordable best places to live in Indonesia for expats with children, with lower housing and school costs.

This makes it a good option for families who want a strong educational atmosphere with local values.

Choosing the Right City for Expat Education

When selecting among the best cities in Indonesia for expat education, families should consider school curriculum, lifestyle preferences, budget, and community support.

Each city offers different strengths, from Jakarta’s wide school choices to Bali’s lifestyle-focused education.

Overall, Indonesia provides many options for expat education in Indonesia, making it easier for families to find a city that fits their needs.

With proper planning, expat families can enjoy both quality education and a comfortable life in one of the expat friendly cities in Indonesia.

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