Cost of Living in Thailand

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In Thailand, expats can experience modern luxuries and everyday convenience. The cost of living is generally lower than in many other popular expat destinations, making it an attractive choice for those looking to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a more affordable price.

While Bangkok is the most expensive city in Thailand, it remains more affordable than many Western and regional counterparts. Expats drawn abroad by multinational corporations with offices in Thailand – most likely in Bangkok or one of the nearby manufacturing cities – often earn high salaries, even by Western standards. As a result, many expats find themselves financially better off after relocating.

Those hired from within the country, such as real estate agents, international school teachers, and IT specialists, may earn slightly less than corporate expats but can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while saving. Even English teachers and lower-income professionals often report a high quality of life thanks to Thailand’s affordable cost of living.

It should be noted that, due to the low rate of urbanisation in the country, the cost of living varies significantly by region. The most expensive areas are undoubtedly the main expat districts in Bangkok and the tourist hubs of Phuket and Koh Samui. Prices in more rural areas can be half to a third of urban costs, making them an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget further.

Cost of accommodation in Thailand

Prices for accommodation in Thailand range quite dramatically throughout the country, depending largely on location. Luxurious beach villas in Phuket or Koh Samui can have high monthly rental rates, and large condos or serviced apartments in Bangkok can be even pricier.

If prices like these don’t fit into your budget, mid-range accommodation is available. In Bangkok, it’s possible to get a townhouse or furnished apartment in a complex, complete with a swimming pool, an ultra-modern gym and security for a reasonable price. Accommodation of this kind can also be found outside the capital city, where more luxury and space can be enjoyed for the same price.

Finally, for those living on a limited budget, modest studio apartments throughout Bangkok and Thailand are available for rental at bargain prices.

Accommodation in Thailand

Cost of transport in Thailand

Whether you’re budgeting for a bus fare, a weekend holiday to the beach or a cab ride around the corner, transport in Thailand offers some of the best bargains.

The cheapest way to travel long distances is by bus or minivan. Trains are a bit pricier and slower than buses, but they offer greater cabin comfort and a sleeper option for overnight trips. The quickest way to travel is to catch a domestic flight.

Travelling costs within city areas are low to moderate. Expats can use relatively cheap taxis or save even more with other public transport options such as the Skytrain or MRT, especially during rush hour. Bus ride prices differ depending on the distance travelled and whether the bus has certain facilities like air conditioning.

Finally, to avoid an uncomfortable long walk on a hot day, motorbikes and tuk-tuks are fantastic options. They charge small fees depending on the distance passengers travel.

Transport in Thailand

Cost of groceries in Thailand

If you choose to eat at home in Thailand, you’ll stretch your bucks even further, as groceries are largely affordable. Fresh produce, poultry, seafood and bread are all relatively inexpensive. That said, if you want to enjoy imported Western-style brands, you’ll have to shell out. Other expensive items include milk, cheese and wine.

Cost of eating out and entertainment in Thailand

The cost of eating out and entertainment in Thailand is remarkably affordable, with an impressive variety of restaurants and street food options. It doesn’t cost much to buy a quick snack from a street stall selling BBQ chicken, pork on sticks, papaya salad or some other Thai delicacy. A full meal of rice, meat and vegetables from a streetside vendor isn’t too hard on the wallet either.

Of course, plenty of establishments also cater to the needs of refined palates. Upmarket restaurants in the expat areas of the main cities or on the islands offer multiple-course meals, and hotels are known for their lavish international buffets. These experiences are considerably pricier.

A night out on the town can be highly affordable if you’re happy to limit yourself to locally brewed beers. Despite the recent wine tax reform, it’s still a relatively expensive drink, and if you favour imported spirits, you’ll quickly find that drinking becomes an expensive habit. As with restaurants, the more upmarket the nightclub, the higher the drink prices.

Lifestyle in Bangkok

Cost of education in Thailand

The cost of education in Thailand can be significant if you move with children, as most expat families choose international schools. Concentrated primarily in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket, international schools are recognised for their high standards of education and well-equipped campuses, but this comes at a price, even in Thailand.

International Schools in Bangkok

Cost of healthcare in Thailand

Healthcare in Thailand is affordable, and the country is a thriving medical tourism destination thanks to its excellent hospitals and internationally trained doctors. Expats working in Thailand are required to enrol in the country’s Social Security Scheme, which includes healthcare benefits funded through monthly salary deductions shared between employer and employee.

While the SSS offers access to healthcare in Thailand, it has its limitations – typically restricting treatment to designated hospitals – and for that reason, most expats opt to purchase private health insurance. This is still relatively affordable, but the cost will vary depending on the policy as well as your health status and age.

Healthcare in Thailand