404 cities covered · Currency: THB (฿) · Capital: Bangkok
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ฿186 ($5.09) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ฿743 ($20.35) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ฿55.71 ($1.53) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ฿4,209 ($115) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ฿681 ($18.66) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ฿1,795 ($49.18) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ฿520 ($14.25) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ฿520 ($14.25) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ฿136 ($3.73) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ฿9,029 ($247) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ฿6,281 ($172) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ฿18,844 ($516) | per month |
Krung Thep Maha Nakhon · pop. 18,007,000
Chiang Mai · pop. 1,198,000
Nakhon Ratchasima · pop. 466,098
Khon Kaen · pop. 416,988
Songkhla · pop. 406,513
Chon Buri · pop. 351,391
Phitsanulok · pop. 281,929
Phuket · pop. 252,515
Nonthaburi · pop. 190,272
Surat Thani · pop. 130,703
Udon Thani · pop. 130,274
Samut Prakan · pop. 120,058
Nakhon Si Thammarat · pop. 106,322
Samut Prakan · pop. 102,291
Nakhon Sawan · pop. 86,439
Pathum Thani · pop. 79,319
Ubon Ratchathani · pop. 79,023
Nakhon Pathom · pop. 78,780
Chon Buri · pop. 77,798
Pathum Thani · pop. 72,774
Rayong · pop. 71,932
Chiang Rai · pop. 70,610
Chon Buri · pop. 70,594
Chon Buri · pop. 66,092
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Thailand
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Thailand
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Thailand
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Thailand
Living costs in Thailand vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of ฿18,662 ($511) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.