Cost Of Living In Thailand - a Guide by Siam Real Estate

Cost of Living Comparisons

Living in Thailand has never looked better. 

Along with the friendly people, fantastic weather and great food, Thailand offers a better quality of life and lower cost of living compared to many countries. 

Right now, inflation and cost of fuel are rising sky high across Europe, UK and The United States. 

Fuel bills for heating homes are going up, food bills are higher and interest rates going up for mortgages and car loans.

There are many reasons to make the move to Thailand, either permanently or as a seasonal resident, to make your life more comfortable and affordable.  

Cost of Living Facts – US & UK Compared to Thailand

• The average cost of living in Thailand ($742) is 65% less expensive than in the United States ($2112). Thailand ranked 112th vs 6th for the United States in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.

• The average cost of living in Thailand (£683) is 59% less expensive than in the United Kingdom (£1661). Thailand ranked 112th vs 16th for the United Kingdom in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.

Cost of Living in Thailand – Local goods are cheap

Thai food, petrol and general items are inexpensive.  Thailand manufacturers a lot of merchandising including cars, furniture and many household items.  There is a huge farming industry which keeps food costs down. 

In addition, Thailand produces a lot of food items that are similar to what you are used to in the West.  You don’t have to have a large salary or pension to live a simple and comfortable life in Thailand.

Accommodations – Variety of Housing in Thailand

There is a wide range of accommodations available.  Modern Condos, Pool Villas, Housing Estates, Bungalows, Luxury Housing and even traditional Thai houses.  All with different price ranges to fit your needs and lower than western countries

Cheap Food in Thailand – Eating out is fun and Affordable

Eating out can be very inexpensive.  Breakfast at a street stall is as little as just over $1 for a large bowl of noodles or rice with meat. Lunch at a street stall is a similar price, or lunch and dinner at a good restaurant can still be as low as $2.50 to $3.50.

Utilities in Thailand - Affordable

Electricity, gas, water and petrol are much cheaper than most Western countries, and internet packages and cable services are a lot less expensive than the US or the UK.

In the price comparison below you must take in consideration in the UK energy bills are expected to rise by 80% in October 2022 as regulators announce hikes. And in the US total  energy costs were about 24% above 2021 levels and are expected  to rise throughout 2022.

Healthcare in Thailand – Treatments are affordable

Quality doctors and health care is available and Thailand offers a lot of specialized doctors. Private hospitals, dentists and clinics are reasonably priced compared to western countries.  And usually, you don’t have to wait more than a day to see a doctor, unlike a lot of other places in the world.

Weather in Thailand – Sunny and warm & comfortable lifestyle

The weather and temperature in Thailand are pleasant and warm.  The good days far outnumber any “bad days” and there isn’t a cold freezing winter.   Best of all, Thailand offers a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle.

Cost of Living Comparisons

Listed below is a cost of living comparison, both in USD Dollars and GBP Pounds.  These figures will give you a general idea of what things costs in Thailand compared to these two currencies. 

Please note, these costs are averages

For example:  In the United States—the cost of living in a large, coastal city can be twice the cost of living in a small, midwest town.  In The United Kingdom—living in London can be twice the cost of living in a northern village.  In Thailand—the cost of living downtown in Bangkok can be twice the cost of living in a rural area.  

Depending on your standard of living, and the city you live in—the costs shown in these examples can be 20%~35% higher than the average—or 20%~35% lower than the averages shown.

However—if you move to Thailand, and maintain the same standard of living, your costs can be cut dramatically.  Or, you can upgrade your lifestyle for much less than you are paying now.

See full article and comparison charts here: Cost Of Living In Thailand - A Guide For Expats

Cost of Living in Thailand Converted into US Dollar and UK Pounds:

Rates from source: https://livingcost.org/ as of October 2022.