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Chiang Mai vs Bangkok

Thailand vs Thailand · 584 km apart

Chiang Mai

Thailand

฿20,194 ($553)

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Bangkok

Thailand

฿23,291 ($638)

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseChiang MaiBangkokCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$5.47$6.24Chiang Mai
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$21.89$24.96Chiang Mai
Cappuccino$1.64$1.87Chiang Mai
Monthly groceries (single person)$124$141Chiang Mai
Monthly public transport pass$20.06$22.88Chiang Mai
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$52.90$60.32Chiang Mai
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$15.32$17.47Chiang Mai
Fitness club membership$15.32$17.47Chiang Mai
Cinema ticket$4.01$4.58Chiang Mai
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$271$319Chiang Mai
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$188$222Chiang Mai
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$565$666Chiang Mai
Total single-person budget$553$638Chiang Mai
Average net salary$741$845

Verdict

Chiang Mai is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Chiang Mai runs about $553 versus $638 in Bangkok — a difference of roughly 15%.

Salary-adjusted, Bangkok leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Chiang Mai  ·  Full cost of living in Bangkok

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chiang Mai cheaper than Bangkok?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $553 per month in Chiang Mai versus $638 in Bangkok — about 15% less.
How far is Chiang Mai from Bangkok?
The straight-line distance between Chiang Mai and Bangkok is approximately 584 km (363 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Chiang Mai or Bangkok?
The estimated average net salary is $741 in Chiang Mai and $845 in Bangkok. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $188 in Chiang Mai versus $207 in Bangkok per month.