The Best Places To Teach English In Indonesia

Indonesia isn’t just one destination—it’s a vast archipelago made up of more than 17,000 islands, each with its own rhythm and character. From mega-cities pulsing with energy to quiet coastal towns steeped in tradition, where you choose to teach can completely shape your experience.

Some teachers come to Indonesia for career opportunities, while others are drawn by culture, community, or surf-ready beaches. Whether you're after vibrant city life, a tight-knit teaching community, or daily sunsets over the ocean, there’s a place in Indonesia that fits.

Here are some of the top locations to consider for teaching English in Indonesia—each with its own blend of opportunities, lifestyle, and local flavor.

🏙️ 1. Jakarta – The Capital of Opportunity

Jakarta is Indonesia’s beating heart—a sprawling metropolis with skyscrapers, malls, traffic, and energy to match. As the capital and economic powerhouse, it’s home to many international schools, corporate training centers, and well-established language academies, creating a steady demand for qualified English teachers.

While the city is busy and often chaotic, it offers unparalleled access to career growth, modern conveniences, and a robust expat network. Jakarta may not have the tropical charm of Bali, but for many, the opportunities outweigh the traffic.

Best for: Ambitious teachers looking for career growth and city life.
Expect: Competitive salaries, well-resourced schools, and a fast-paced lifestyle.

🧘 2. Yogyakarta – Creative, Affordable, and Student-Friendly

Yogyakarta (often called "Jogja") is a beloved city among both Indonesians and foreigners. It's a center of Javanese culture, art, and education—home to major universities and a thriving creative scene. The cost of living is lower than in Jakarta or Bali, making it especially attractive for teachers on a budget.

Teaching jobs here are plentiful in language centers, private schools, and universities. The slower pace of life, strong local identity, and easy access to nearby temples and nature create an ideal mix of work and inspiration.

Best for: Teachers who want a balanced, artistic lifestyle with a strong community vibe.
Expect: Lower salaries than in Jakarta, rich cultural immersion, and a laid-back teaching environment.

🌴 3. Bali – Island Living with Global Appeal

Bali is one of the most iconic locations in Southeast Asia, drawing travelers, creatives, and remote workers from all over the world. For English teachers, it offers a unique blend of tropical living, spiritual culture, and a highly international community. While salaries are generally lower than in major cities, many teachers come for the lifestyle: surfing, yoga, healthy food, and a relaxed pace of life.

Teaching jobs are available in private schools, international schools, and language centers—especially around areas like Denpasar, Ubud, and Canggu. There are also opportunities for volunteering or short-term gigs, particularly in education outreach or eco-tourism programs.

Best for: Teachers who prioritize lifestyle, nature, and global community.
Expect: Lower wages, high competition, stunning natural surroundings, and a focus on personal well-being.

🌋 4. Bandung – Cool Climate and Academic Energy

Nestled in the highlands of West Java, Bandung offers a refreshing change from Indonesia’s typically hot and humid climate. It’s a university city with a youthful, intellectual energy—home to several top institutions and a growing tech and startup scene. The cooler temperatures and scenic surroundings make it especially appealing to those who prefer a more temperate environment.

Teaching opportunities are mostly found in international schools, bilingual programs, and local universities. The city also has a strong creative scene, with art, fashion, and café culture woven into daily life.

Best for: Teachers who want a livable, mid-sized city with academic roots.
Expect: A pleasant climate, education-focused atmosphere, and affordable cost of living.

🌊 5. Surabaya – Indonesia’s Second-Largest City

Surabaya, the capital of East Java, is Indonesia’s second-largest city and a major commercial hub. While it’s not as flashy or international as Jakarta or Bali, it offers a more grounded and authentic urban experience. With a booming industrial economy and expanding middle class, the demand for English education continues to grow, especially in private schools and training centers.

The cost of living is significantly lower than in Jakarta, and the city’s infrastructure is modern and efficient. Surabaya also serves as a great base for exploring East Java’s natural wonders, like Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater.

Best for: Teachers looking for career stability without Jakarta’s chaos.
Expect: Fewer tourists, a more “local” vibe, and a comfortable urban lifestyle.

🧭 6. Other Emerging Locations to Consider

While most teachers gravitate toward Jakarta, Bali, or Yogyakarta, Indonesia’s vast geography means there are plenty of other places worth considering. These emerging destinations may not have the same volume of jobs, but they offer unique cultural experiences and the chance to make a real impact.

• Makassar (Sulawesi): A bustling port city and regional hub with increasing demand for English, especially in universities and local schools.
• Medan (Sumatra): A diverse, food-loving city with influences from Chinese, Malay, and Batak cultures. Opportunities exist in language centers and growing expat circles.
• Lombok: Known as Bali’s quieter cousin, Lombok offers a more relaxed pace and emerging teaching opportunities—ideal for those wanting island life without the crowds.

Best for: Adventurous teachers or those interested in off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Expect: Fewer job openings but rich cultural immersion and slower-paced lifestyles.

💡 7. How to Choose the Right Place for You

With so many diverse destinations across Indonesia, picking the right city or region comes down to your priorities and lifestyle. Here’s how to make the best decision for your teaching journey:

• Lifestyle factors: Consider the climate (humid coast vs. cooler highlands), the availability of Western amenities, and the size of the expat community.
• Teaching goals: Want to climb the career ladder? Jakarta and Surabaya offer more structured opportunities. Prefer cultural immersion or creative living? Yogyakarta or Bandung may be a better fit.
• Cost vs. opportunity: Urban centers often have more jobs but higher living costs. Rural or emerging areas might offer lower expenses and more meaningful experiences—but with fewer resources.
• Pace of life: Do you thrive on fast-paced city energy, or prefer beach-town tranquility or student-city charm?

Choosing where to teach in Indonesia isn’t just about job openings—it’s about aligning your personal goals with the rhythm of the place you’ll call home.

✅ Conclusion: Your Ideal Indonesian Teaching Destination Awaits

Indonesia’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths for TEFL teachers. Whether you're chasing career opportunities in Jakarta, craving creativity in Yogyakarta, or dreaming of beachside living in Bali, there’s a place that matches your vibe.

With a bit of research and self-reflection, you can find a destination that supports both your professional growth and your personal happiness. The beauty of teaching in Indonesia lies in its balance—between tradition and modernity, serenity and energy, discovery and familiarity.