Best Cities in Indonesia for Remote Workers

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Best cities in Indonesia for remote workers. Photograph: Yan Krukau via Pexels

Remote workers are increasingly choosing Indonesia for its warm climate, rich culture, and attractive cost of living. 

But with more than 17,000 islands and countless cities, the real question is: where should digital nomads and remote professionals actually settle?

Below are the best cities in Indonesia for remote workers, evaluated based on internet reliability, lifestyle quality, community, affordability, and access to coworking spaces.

1. Bali (Canggu, Ubud, & Pererenan)

Photograph: Atlantic Ambience via Pexels

Bali remains Indonesia’s undisputed digital nomad capital.

Why it works:

• High density of work-friendly cafés and beach clubs
• Huge international community
• Strong creative and wellness ecosystem

Coworking spaces: BWork, Tropical Nomad, Outpost, Zin, Tribal.

Cost of living:

• Canggu is expensive (often comparable to Western short-term rental prices)
• Ubud and Sanur offer more moderate housing options

Best for: Creatives, influencers, wellness enthusiasts, and those seeking a lively social scene.

Read more:

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Bali? (Guide for Expats & Digital Nomads)

2. Jakarta

Best cities in Indonesia for remote workers, Jakarta. Photograph: Tom Fisk via Pexels

A bustling megalopolis ideal for career-driven professionals.

Why it works:

• World-class internet speeds
• Modern, reliable infrastructure
• Strong corporate and startup ecosystem

Coworking spaces: WeWork, GoWork, Greenhouse, Avenue8

Cost of living:

• High in central districts (SCBD, Kemang)
• More affordable in suburbs (BSD, Bintaro)

Consideration: Heavy traffic and air pollution are unavoidable.

Best for: Corporate remote workers, consultants, and those needing proximity to international business networks.

3. Bandung

Photograph: Bin_Suyardi via Pixabay

A cooler, creative alternative often called the “Paris of Java.”

Why it works:

• Massive student population fueling a vibrant creative and tech scene
• Endless affordable cafés with fast Wi-Fi
• Pleasant climate and slower pace of life
• Now easily connected to Jakarta via the Whoosh High-Speed Train (±45 minutes)

Cost of living: Very affordable—housing, food, and lifestyle expenses are lower than in Bali or Jakarta.

Best for: Developers, designers, writers, and professionals who prefer cooler weather and a laid-back environment.

4. Yogyakarta

Best cities in Indonesia for remote workers, Yogyakarta. Photograph: Nur Andi Ravsanjani Gusma via Pexels

A cultural and academic hub with deep artistic roots.

Why it works:

• Exceptionally low cost of living
• Strong café ecosystem with reliable Wi-Fi
• Calm, community-oriented atmosphere
• Growing coworking options (Antologi, Ruang Tengah)

Cost of living: Among the lowest in major Indonesian cities.

Best for: Budget-conscious remote workers, creatives, researchers, and cultural travelers.

Read more:

Top Reasons to Live in Jogja You Can’t Miss

5. Surabaya

Photograph: ignartonosbg via Pixabay

Indonesia’s second-largest city—modern, clean, and surprisingly underrated.

Why it works:

• Great infrastructure and fast internet
• Modern housing developments
• Less touristy and more local
• Fewer crowds than Jakarta but with similar conveniences

Cost of living: Moderate—cheaper than Jakarta, pricier than Yogyakarta.

Best for: Remote workers who want structure, stability, and a professional environment without Jakarta’s chaos.

Read more:

Top 7 Pros of Living in Surabaya You Should Know

6. Medan

Photograph: Nurul Hasanah via Pexels

Sumatra’s economic powerhouse with an unmistakably bold urban character.

Why it works:

• Elite culinary reputation (Malay, Chinese, Indian, Batak fusion)
• Strategic base for weekend trips to Lake Toba or Bukit Lawang
• Lower cost of living compared to Jakarta/Bali
• Reliable 4G/5G networks and an airport train system

Best for: Adventurous remote workers, food lovers, and those seeking a raw, non-touristy urban experience.

Read more:

Why Living in Medan Is an Experience You Shouldn’t Miss

7. Makassar

Photograph: Khairul Akbar via Unsplash

A coastal city combining good food, island access, and a growing business district.

Why it works:

• Rapidly developing urban infrastructure
• Lower cost of living
• Easy access to beaches and islands
• Less crowded than major Java/Bali cities

Cost of living: Affordable—food and housing are reasonably priced.

Best for: Remote workers who enjoy coastal living with strong local culture.

Read more:

10 Essential Tips for Living in Makassar as an Expat

Which Indonesian City Is Best for You?

• For community & lifestyle: Bali
• For business-minded remote work: Jakarta
• For comfort & affordability: Bandung or Yogyakarta
• For underrated urban hubs: Surabaya, Medan, Makassar

Ultimately, the best city depends on your priorities—modern conveniences, cultural immersion, community vibes, or budget-friendly living.