Joseph and Rebecca Oxley, both 37, have relocated their family of five from Derbyshire, UK, to Bali, Indonesia, citing substantial cost savings and an improved quality of life. The couple, who home-school their three children, reported saving approximately £2,783 per month on their expenses. Their move was prompted by a health scare and a desire to escape what they described as the relentless 'hamster wheel' of UK life.

Before their relocation, the Oxleys lived in a four-bedroom home in Darley Dale, Derbyshire, which they sold for £390,000. They initially left the UK in February 2026, traveling to Thailand before settling in Bali in April. Their monthly outgoings in Bali are approximately £1,760, a significant decrease from the £4,543 they previously spent in the UK.

The decision to move was accelerated when Rebecca discovered a lump in her neck, with doctors indicating an 80% chance of cancer. Although the lump was later found to be benign after private medical tests, the scare solidified their resolve to pursue their long-held dream of moving abroad.

Initially, the family had planned to move to Australia, inspired by a holiday there in October 2024. However, they encountered difficulties finding suitable work opportunities. A subsequent holiday in Spain in the summer of 2025 further cemented their desire for a change, leading them to put their UK home on the market.

Their original travel itinerary through Southeast Asia was altered due to global events in the Middle East, prompting them to head directly to Bali. Since arriving in April, the family has found the slower pace of life in Bali transformative.

"We feel a lot more relaxed. We've realised that not everything has to happen right now," Joseph Oxley stated. He contrasted this with the perceived urgency of life in the UK, noting that in Southeast Asia, tasks are completed at a more measured pace. The positive attitudes of people in Bali have also had an effect on the family.

The financial benefits are significant. Their UK mortgage payments were £1,387 per month, while in Bali, they rent a private villa with a pool for £600 per month. Food costs have also decreased, with a meal for five in Bali costing around £50, compared to an estimated £100 in the UK.

The Oxleys have also noted a positive impact on their children, aged 13, 11, and six. They report that the children appear less stressed and are happier, enjoying a more immersive experience learning the local language and culture outside of a traditional classroom setting.

"You could see the stress in them in the UK, which is crazy because kids should be kids," Joseph Oxley said. "Here they're happier, lighter and enjoying themselves."

The family has not yet finalized long-term plans, with Australia still a possibility, but they are currently enjoying the freedom and altered lifestyle in Bali.