Why Are Nanny Salaries in Bali,Indonesia So Much Higher Than in Jakarta?
🅿️ Many expat parents are surprised to learn that nanny salaries in Bali are often double those in Jakarta 😲 If you’re relocating to Bali or hiring childcare while visiting, you may wonder—why the big price gap for the same type of work?
🅰️ It can feel frustrating. In Jakarta, you might find a full-time nanny for less than IDR 3 million/month—but in Bali, you’re quoted IDR 5–6 million or more! This price shock can cause confusion or lead to assumptions that agencies are overcharging. But there’s more behind the numbers than you might think 💭
🆂 In Bali, the high demand from foreign families, the need for English-speaking nannies, and the limited supply of qualified candidates all contribute to higher rates. Plus, foreign clients tend to pay more generously than locals, creating a unique market dynamic on the island 💵🌴
🆃 “I hired a nanny in Jakarta for half the price,” says Anna, an Australian mom living in Canggu. “But once I understood the expectations here—English skills, flexible hours, and professional experience—I realized the higher pay made sense.” 👶✨
🅴 For example, over 90% of nanny clients in Bali are foreign, not local. Most want a nanny who can communicate in English, adapt to Western parenting styles, and offer flexible hours—even on weekends. And while demand keeps rising, the number of qualified nannies stays relatively small.
🅰️ If you’re considering hiring a nanny in Bali, it’s important to understand why prices are higher—and what you’re really paying for. Let’s explore what makes Bali’s nanny market unique and how you can find the best value without cutting corners 💬
Table of Contents
Why Nanny Salaries in Bali Are Rising Every Year 📈
Every year, nanny salaries in Bali keep going up—and it’s not by accident. Bali has become a hotspot for families from all over the world who want professional, reliable childcare while enjoying the island lifestyle 🏝️👶
As the demand for skilled nannies continues to grow, the number of experienced nannies hasn’t kept up. With more families looking and fewer nannies available, the price naturally rises. It’s basic supply and demand.
Some families even offer bonuses, meals, or flexible hours to secure a great nanny. If you’re wondering why prices today are higher than just two years ago, it’s because competition among parents has increased dramatically.
The Role of Foreign Tourist Demand in Driving Up Wages ✈️
Bali isn’t just a place to vacation—it’s where many tourists turn into part-time or full-time residents. These families still need help caring for their children. Whether it’s for a few hours or several months. Since most of them are foreigners used to paying higher wages back home, they often don’t mind offering more to get quality service 💼🌴
As a result, local nanny agencies and independent nannies have adjusted their rates to match this international demand. Unlike in Jakarta, where clients are mostly Indonesian, Bali’s client base is globally minded—and with more tourists arriving every year, this demand only continues to grow.
Why English-Speaking Nannies in Bali Earn More 🗣️
One of the biggest reasons Bali nannies earn more is simple: language skills. In Bali, almost every foreign client wants a nanny who can speak at least basic English. That means nannies must either already speak the language or spend time and money learning it 📚🗣️
English-speaking nannies are harder to find and more valuable to foreign families. In Jakarta, many nannies work for local families where English isn’t necessary.
But in Bali, being able to communicate clearly with parents and kids is part of the job—and those who can do it well get paid more. Think of it as a skill bonus!
Why Most Bali Nanny Jobs Come from Foreign Clients 🌍
In Jakarta, most nannies work for local Indonesian families. But in Bali, it’s the opposite. About 90% of nanny jobs come from foreign clients—especially digital nomads, expats, and tourists who live in villas or long-stay accommodations 🏡👨👩👧👦
These clients often come from places like Australia, Germany, and the US, where nanny services are much more expensive. When they come to Bali, they’re willing to pay what they see as a “reasonable” rate—even if it’s double the local average.
This foreign demand has created a unique economy where local expectations meet international standards.
Is It Really Easier to Get a Nanny Job in Bali Than Jakarta? 🤔
For many Indonesian women, Bali feels like a land of opportunity—especially for those looking to work as nannies. Compared to Jakarta, jobs in Bali are often easier to get, especially if you have childcare experience and can speak some English 🎯
Many Bali nanny agencies are constantly looking for new workers to meet the growing demand. Some women even move from Java or other parts of Indonesia to Bali for better pay. In Jakarta, competition is higher and salaries are lower.
In Bali, nannies with the right skills can find work quickly and negotiate better rates.
How Supply Shortages Are Affecting Bali’s Nanny Market ⚖️
Even though Bali has high demand, the supply of professional nannies hasn’t caught up. Many qualified nannies already have jobs, and others are hard to find because of limited training or lack of experience. This shortage drives prices up year after year 📈👩🍼
When there aren’t enough skilled workers to meet demand, families are willing to pay more just to secure someone reliable. Some agencies report that clients book weeks in advance just to guarantee availability.
Until more nannies enter the workforce—or proper training becomes widespread—this supply gap will keep wages high.
Why Foreigners Pay More Than Indonesian Families in Bali 💸
It’s a simple fact: foreign clients pay more than local Indonesian families. Why? For one, many of them are used to paying high childcare costs in their home countries and view Bali’s prices as affordable—even when doubled 💳🌏
Second, foreign clients often have higher expectations, such as English fluency, flexibility, or extra household duties. And lastly, many local families just can’t compete with the wages foreigners are willing to pay.
This creates two very different markets in the same place: one local and affordable, one foreign and premium. Naturally, most nannies aim for the higher-paying market.
FAQs About Bali vs. Jakarta Nanny Salary Differences ❓
Q: Is it true that Bali nanny salaries are twice as high as Jakarta?
A: Yes! Many Bali nannies earn 5–6 million IDR/month, while Jakarta rates often start at just 2.5–3 million.
Q: Why don’t families in Jakarta pay more too?
A: Because most clients in Jakarta are local Indonesians who pay based on local cost standards and expectations.
Q: Do Bali nannies really need to speak English?
A: For foreign clients—absolutely. English is often a requirement, not a bonus.
Q: Can I find a cheaper nanny in Bali if I’m Indonesian?
A: It’s possible, but keep in mind most agencies cater to foreigners and set prices accordingly.
Q: Will nanny wages in Bali keep rising?
A: Most likely, yes. As long as demand grows and supply stays limited, prices will continue to climb.