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American retiree details living on $1,300 a month in Bali after paying $45,000 upfront for a 10-year home lease
Bali newsBali9 min read
Debbie Welsch, a 57-year-old American, retired to Bali over seven years ago with her 82-year-old mother, living on a budget of $1,300 a month. She paid $45,000 upfront for a 10-year lease on her 1,100-square-foot house, which averages $375 monthly, plus an additional $3,500 annually for renovations, including a $7,000 swimming pool. Her mother also leases a house for $350 a month, paid upfront for four years. Welsch's income comes from savings, investments totaling $550,000 from the sale of her Los Angeles home, and about $4,000 annually from writing and a YouTube channel. Monthly expenses include $60 for house maintenance, $45 for a weekly maid, and $75 for utilities. Her international health insurance costs $124 a month with a $10,000 deductible, and a local clinic visit averages $15. Transportation costs are around $22 a month, including a $500 scooter with $6 monthly for gas and maintenance, plus taxis and rideshares. She spends $310 a month on groceries, cooking at home often, and dines out two to three times a week for about $7 per meal. Pet care for a dog and two cats is also part of her budget. Welsch advises others to immerse themselves in the local culture before making a permanent move to Bali.
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