What is the living cost in Thailand?

The cost of living in Thailand can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and location. However, for most foreigners living modestly to comfortably, Thailand remains affordable compared to many Western countries.

Here is a practical breakdown of monthly living costs for a single person:

1. Housing (Rent)

• Bangkok (city center condo): 15,000–30,000 THB/month

• Bangkok (outside city center): 8,000–15,000 THB/month

• Chiang Mai / Pattaya / Hua Hin (popular expat areas): 6,000–20,000 THB/month

• Rural Thailand or smaller cities: 4,000–10,000 THB/month

2. Utilities

• Electricity and water: 1,500–3,000 THB/month (higher with air conditioning)

• Internet (high speed): 500–1,200 THB/month

• Mobile phone: 300–800 THB/month

3. Food

• Local Thai meals (street food): 40–80 THB/meal

• Mid-range restaurant: 150–400 THB/person

• Monthly grocery shopping: 4,000–10,000 THB

• Western/imported food adds more cost

4. Transportation

• BTS/MRT in Bangkok: 20–60 THB/trip

• Taxi or Grab: 100–300 THB/trip depending on distance

• Monthly car rental or fuel (if owning): 3,000–8,000 THB

• Motorbike rental: 2,000–4,000 THB/month

5. Health Insurance

• Local insurance for retirees: 12,000–40,000 THB/year

• International expat insurance: 50,000–150,000 THB/year (depends on age and coverage)

6. Leisure and Miscellaneous

• Gym membership: 1,000–2,500 THB/month

• Cinema ticket: 150–250 THB

• Domestic travel or weekend trips: varies by destination

Estimated Monthly Budget (for 1 person)

Notes:

• Bangkok is more expensive than other regions.

• Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Hua Hin are popular with retirees due to low cost and good facilities.

• Long-stay expats often negotiate better rental rates for 6–12 month contracts.

Would you like a sample monthly budget in USD or tailored to your lifestyle (e.g., retiree, digital nomad, couple)?