Top 12 Best Places to Live in Thailand
From Bangkok and Chiang Mai to Krabi and Kanchanaburi, Thailand has the best places to live for expats. Known as the land of smiles, its beautiful natural scenery, low cost of living, diverse cuisine, and thriving expat and digital nomad communities attracted expats across the globe.
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Thinking about where to settle in Thailand? Here Pacific Prime will introduce you to the top 12 best places to live, and how you can better guarantee a seamless expat experience in Thailand by securing international health insurance.
Phuket – A Diversity Town
When people hear the name Phuket, they think about the beach and its vibrant nightlife, but Phuket is also known as a diverse town with lots of food and culture. Besides, it has one of the best international schools in Thailand. It is a very expat-friendly city due to the following reasons:
- Great Education System
Phuket is one of the cities in Thailand with numerous expats residing there. The city adapts to the needs of expats by having great international schools such as the British International School and UWC Thailand, making it a favorable relocation destination for families. - Accessible Location
Phuket is a popular island– Flying to and from it is the best way to travel to other destinations. You can fly to almost any location in Thailand and Asia from Phuket International Airport. - Cafe City
Order your coffee and enjoy the view while you are working! If you like to work in a cafe or co-working space, Phuket is made for you. this city has developed its own cafe hubs in each area, making it a great way to meet and connect with new people. - Affordable Cost of Living
Even though Phuket can be somewhat expensive for some locals, it’s still considered an affordable city to live in compared to other big cities in Asia. USD $3 is enough for a meal, and the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment starts at around USD $428 per month. - High-Quality Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Phuket is exceptional. There are a few well-known private hospitals such as Phuket International Hospital and Bangkok Hospital Phuket. Most professionals in Phuket can speak and communicate in English, so you do not have to worry about communication at all.
Conclusion: Phuket is the best place to live in Thailand if you are looking for a city that welcomes expats, has great diversity of food and cultures, has a good school for your kids and has amazing beaches. You can live comfortably here if you are making USD $1200 – $1500 per month or more.
Chiang Mai – Ancient City with Slow Life Lifestyle
Chiang Mai is the biggest city in Northern Thailand and has the best combination of traditional and modern lifestyle. Experience a city with a low cost of living, great food, and a comfortable lifestyle. Let’s see what else this city offers:
- Cafe, Cafe, Cafe
It would be a lie if someone said Chiang Mai is not suitable for digital nomads because there are cafes with fast internet connections everywhere. Not to mention the co-working spaces that are available in every corner of the city, which are affordable and offer great facilities for work.
For example, a cup of coffee can cost as little as USD $1.17, and the cost of a co-working space starts at around USD $20 per month with all the necessary facilities you need for work. - Budget-friendly Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, you can choose to stay in a hotel for as little as USD $4 per night or in a nice rental property for around USD $450 per month. - Growing Expat Communities
Chiang Mai is one of the cities that has a large number of expats. That’s why there are various groups and communities for people with different professions and interests. You will feel welcomed and get along with people and the city soon after you relocate there. - Mountain Getaways
Chiang Mai has a lot of mountains for you to escape to when you need a getaway from the city, including well-known destinations like Doi Inthanon, Doi Ang Khang, Doi Tung, etc. Easily accessible by bus or private car, these breathtaking destinations are perfect for a quick getaway. - Fantastic Nightlife Attractions
If you are all about ‘work hard, play harder’ then Chiang Mai might be the city for you. The city is peaceful during the day, but at night it offers the best nightlife experiences. You can start your night at a jazz club then hop from bar to bar easily!
Conclusion: Chiang Mai appeals to many, especially digital nomads. The cost of living there is inexpensive and there are a lot of cafes and co-working spaces for you to work and meet like-minded people. Moreover, it is the most peaceful city you could ever think of in Thailand.
Krabi – Peaceful Coastal City
Enjoy the beaches and islands with minimal cost of living in Krabi. As one of the provinces in southern Thailand, it is known for its peaceful beaches and breathtaking views. And of course, Krabi is also a lot cheaper than a bigger city like Phuket.
- Affordable Cost Of Living
As mentioned before, compared to Phuket, the cost of living is relatively cheaper. A meal in local places can start around USD $2 and the rental accommodation can start from USD $175 a month. - Diverse Community
When you go to Krabi, you will notice a diverse community due to the residents from around the world. This has resulted in the province having a multicultural community with a perfect blend of Muslim, Chinese-Thai, Buddhist, and some gypsies. - Expat-Friendly But Not Too Touristy
Relocating to Krabi can be somewhat challenging but, as an expat-friendly city it will help make the move easier for you. You will be able to talk and make friends with locals and expats who have been living there, not only the expats who are tourists. - Various Food Scenes
The food scene here is diverse and amazing to explore. There is Thai food, Southern Thai food, Indian food, Malaysian food, Chinese food, and other cuisines you might enjoy. - Breathtaking Islands
Krabi is also known as a home to multiple islands, and invites tons of tourists each year. As an expat who lives in the area, you can visit these amazing islands as often as you want with accessible tours and boat rides. - Rock Climbing Is The Thing
Krabi offers not only a wide range of outdoor activities, but it is also an ideal place for rock climbing lovers to challenge themselves. If you are a professional rock climber, you may even find employment in the industry since there are several climbing tours.
Conclusion: Krabi is not as busy as Phuket. Which might be more suitable for those who love the beaches, islands, and outdoor activities. It would be easier to settle down as it’s welcoming to expats and has a good number of expat communities.
Kanchanaburi – Historical River City
Living in Kanchanaburi, one of the most historical cities in Thailand, is exciting especially when they are a perfect mix of old meets new. The cost of living is relatively cheap. There are many local food places and activities that you can enjoy, including:
- Loads Of Tourist Destinations
While living there as an expat, you may find yourself busy visiting all of the destinations and landmarks in this city. It has a variety of places for you to explore, from the historical landmark ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’ to the beautiful Erawan National Park. - Become A Part Of The Gems And Jewelry Industry
With unique and skilled craftsmanship, the gems and jewelry industry in Kanchanaburi has been growing worldwide. If you relocate there with industry-specific knowledge, you can make a living by investing in or exporting the gems. - Local Food Selections
Kanchanaburi’s cuisines and cultures have been influenced by Myanmar, Cambodia, Japan, Mon, and Khmer. You will find yourself trying different dishes from all cultures for sure. - Surrounded by Nature
You can easily improvise your getaways in Kanchanaburi. You can go camping next to the Kwai River, Sangkhlaburi, E-Tong Pilok Village, and many more. Alternatively, you can relax by the waterfalls located in the city.
Conclusion: Kanchanaburi is a nice city for those who love history, nature, waterfalls, and mountains. It is more suitable for singles than families since it is not home to any international schools.
Bangkok – Sleepless City
Bangkok is the most popular city in Thailand with tourists and is also home to many expats from all over the world due to its growing economy, facilities, and blooming expat communities. Let’s see what else makes this city a sleepless city:
- A Range of Neighborhoods
Bangkok has so many areas for expats to settle down. From the heart of the city like the Asoke area to a suburban area like Lat Krabang, there are differences in the cost of rental, food, communities, and job opportunities. - Thriving Startup Community
There are a lot of buildings and co-working spaces in Bangkok that are made for startups. There are plenty of job opportunities in startup environments. There are so many international agencies and companies as well. - Day-to-night Adventure
Bangkok has a lot to offer. During the day, you can have a nice chill day at coffee shops, restaurants, gyms, and shopping malls. During the night, you can check out all the rooftop bars, clubs, and night markets. When in Bangkok, you will never run out of activity ideas. - Family-Friendly
Yes, Bangkok is suitable for any family. Not only are there several outstanding schools you can choose for your kids, but there is also a wide range of family-friendly activities. - The Best Healthcare in Thailand
Bangkok has a more robust healthcare system than the other cities. You will find loads of international hospital and clinic options in the city. Some might be specialists in a specific field. A health insurance plan is recommended to ensure access to the best treatments at all times.
Conclusion: Bangkok is built for those who love city life, vibrant nightlife scenes, activities, and making connections. Bangkok offers a variety of cultural experiences, delicious food, and affordable cost of living. Moreover, it is suitable for those who are relocating with their family.
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) – The Biggest City in Thailand
Relocating to Korat is a good idea if you are looking for a city that has everything to offer for expats but still retains its unique flair. Korat is the biggest city in Thailand, with plenty of mountains, waterfalls, villages, cultures, and destinations. Here are a few things that make this city perfect for you:
- Teaching Opportunities
Considering the population size in Korat, you can easily find teaching jobs in one of many public schools and international schools. The differences would be the payment and the working environment. - Learn A New Tongue
Did you know that people in Korat have their own dialogue? It is totally different from the Thai language that most Thai nationals speak. But do not worry, as you live there, you will get used to it and might pick up along the way. - Low Cost Of Living
Korat is still cheaper than other major cities in the country. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center starts from only USD $170. Transportation might not be as easy, but you can rent a motorbike to get around. - Connect With Nature
Because of its size, Korat has a lot of nature for everyone to explore. You can go to Khao Yai National Park for bird watching, trekking, camping, and many more. You can also check out other destinations for a getaway from the city life.
Conclusion: Korat is the biggest city in Thailand that comes with natural attractions and activities, with slightly less to offer in terms of diversified job opportunities and infrastructure compared to Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
This city would make a great place to live in Thailand if you are looking for a teaching job and to chill and connect with local people and cultures.
Nan – A Peaceful City
Nan is known for its beautiful nature scenes, history, and peacefulness. It wouldn’t be a lie to say that this city would be more suitable for those who work online. As it is a small city, it doesn’t have a lot of job opportunities but it has a lot of reasons remote workers should choose this place to live in Thailand:
- Coffee Shops Are Everywhere
Nan is a slow-life city. You will find many specialty coffee shops in every area you go. You can grab a coffee and sit there working for hours, enjoying the beauty of the surrounding nature. Moreover, the internet connection is smooth, so you can work from anywhere in the province. - Connect With The Locals
Nan is one of the cities with a lot of history and culture in the past, and you can see glimpses of it in everyday life. If you relocate to Nan, you can connect to the city’s historical and cultural stuff, and that’s the best way to explore the city! - Incredibly Low Cost Of Living
You can wake up and have a local breakfast for less than USD $2. If you dine in at a fancy restaurant, it might cost you only up to USD $5 for one person. A one-bedroom apartment normally starts at USD $40. - Peace Of Mind
You will love Nan if you want peacefulness at all times. Even in the heart of the city, it is still serene. You can also go hiking or camping in the mountains, splashing water in the waterfalls.
Conclusion: Nan is perfect for remote workers who enjoy serenity and away from the crowd. It would be the best place to live in Thailand if you are a true nature and outdoor enthusiast with a peaceful environment.
Lopburi – The Monkey Kingdom
Unlike all cities in the world, in the center of Lopburi, people and monkeys live in the same neighborhood. Lopburi is also a starter city for a lot of expats who have relocated to Thailand, and here are the reasons:
- Inexpensive Cost Of Living
The cost of living in Lopburi is relatively cheap compared to Bangkok. A one-bedroom apartment starts at USD $110, and you can live a comfortable life by making more than just USD $530 a month. - Thriving Teacher Community
There is a community for expats who teach in the area. Even Though it is a small city, it still has constant teaching jobs to offer as many schools and language centers in the area hire native English speakers to teach children and adults. - Join The Non-profit Organizations
You can also start by joining a non-profit organization in Lopburi, especially if you have a strong passion for community development and social welfare. - Jobs In the Agriculture Industry
Lopburi is an agricultural city with various agricultural tours going on. This means you can also find a job in this industry as well whether it’s as a tour guide, a researcher, or a farm manager.
Conclusion: If you are new to Thailand, Lopburi would be a good place to live where you can explore the history and connect more with the locals.
Chonburi – Beaches And Party
Chonburi is a province not too far away from Bangkok that features coastal areas, water activities, islands, and a vibrant city life that you might fall in love with. Here are some reasons that Chonburi might be the best place for you to live in Thailand:
- Blooming Educational Systems
The fact that there are more than 9 universities and many more international schools in the area makes it very suitable for expats looking for teaching jobs. - Affordable Coastal Lifestyle
There are a lot of beaches and some islands in this city, and it’s not as expensive as the coastal cities in Southern Thailand like Phuket, specifically when you are living near the university area. A meal can be as cheap as USD $1.50 and the housing could start from USD USD $100 a month. - Delectable Seafood
Since it’s a coastal city, there are a lot of local fisherman villages, which will give you access to fresh seafood every day at local prices. Some shops might even offer to boil or steam the seafood for you. - Nightlife
Whether you relocate to the heart of the city or the beach side, the nightlife in this area is always vibrant. During the day, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and the various food places. At night, you’ll find yourself hopping from club to club all night long. - Growing Manufacturing Industry
Certain areas of Chonburi serve as industrial manufacturing hubs, including well-known industrial companies. This makes Chonburi an ideal location for engineers and other professionals with specialized skills for working in manufacturing.
Conclusion: Chonburi is an excellent location for those seeking jobs in the teaching or manufacturing fields. With its growing economy and low cost of living, it’s a perfect place to live in Thailand for anyone looking for a bustling town with beautiful beaches and nearby islands.
Pattaya – A Capital Of Fun and Entertainment
Pattaya is known for its wide range of activities that people enjoy all day and night. It is not only one of the most visited cities in Thailand, but also a permanent home to a community of expats from around the world. Let’s explore whether Pattaya is the right city for you to relocate to!
- The Party Never Ends
You know this is your city if you are a party animal. Pattaya has many hangout spots where you can drop by and have the time of your life. Your options include chill pubs, EDM clubs, luxurious rooftop bars, and many more. - Surrounded by Islands
Pattaya can be very busy and a bit overwhelming for some people. But do not worry, you can hop on the boat and visit one of the islands around Pattaya. Within one hour, you will be on Koh Larn, Koh Phai, and many more - Easy Transportations
It is a breeze to navigate Pattaya and its surrounding areas. You can hop on a local bus or van to travel within the city and to other cities in Thailand. - Big Job Market
When moving to Pattaya, you do not have to worry much about the job opportunities. Since the city’s economy is related to tourism, you can easily find a job in the hospitality field. Teaching is also another option because there are international schools as well. - Thriving Expat Communities
Relocating to Pattaya can be challenging, but settling in is easier with the expat community there. You can join Facebook groups to meet new people or go out and make new friends in any place like a cafe or bar.
Conclusion: Pattaya is the city that offers you the most out of the party life. Meeting new people easily throughout the city at a cafe, co-working space or even at a pub! Also, this city is suitable for both those who want a contract job and digital nomads.
Koh Samui – Tourism Destination Island
Koh Samui is on another level compared to Phuket as it is the gem of the Gulf of Thailand. You can live in very fancy apartments here or in a local apartment. Both will still let you experience the best of what the island has to offer including:
- Stunning Beaches
There are over 10 beaches in Samui that you can visit and enjoy clear water and beautiful beaches. If you enjoy water sports or activities, you will absolutely fall in love with this place. - Food Scenes
You will find local food places readily available everywhere in the city. That said, the downside is that Southern food is often very spicy. If you love spicy food, that can be enjoyable; and if you don’t, you may need to pay extra to eat in restaurants in tourist areas or a Western restaurant.
Moreover, there are choices for Indian food, Malaysian food, and more. Alternatively, you can try different types of food just by walking down the street or in a food market. - Affordable Luxury Lifestyles
Koh Samui is full of luxury hotels and resorts, but they don’t cost as much as you think. A two-bedroom in a luxury condominium can start from USD $800 a month. This price includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and many more facilities. - Career Paths in Hospitality
Due to the number of tourists visiting each year, Koh Samui has a booming hospitality industry. If you have a background in the industry, it would not be too difficult for you to get a job there and grow towards the career path. Also, most people on the island speak English which is convenient for expats.
Conclusion: From the beaches and local food markets to luxury hotel dining spots, Koh Samui is good for you if you love the coastal city with a laid-back lifestyle. There are a lot of job opportunities in the hospitality industry that can make you good money.
Koh Tao – Perfect Location for Divers
Koh Tao, the Turtle Island, is a small island in the Chumphon Archipelago area. Many people from around the world come here each year to learn how to dive, and some of them fall in love with the island and decide to stay there long-term. Let’s see what’s there to offer:
- Fewer Language Barriers
Most people in Koh Tao can communicate in English well enough for you to feel welcomed in the area. Also, it’s easy to make new local and expat friends since it’s a small island where you will bump into the same faces from time to time. - Tight-knit Expat Community
Most people who visit Koh Tao share the same interest in diving. That is a solid reason for the massive expat community, which is great for those who want to relocate to the area where you can find a group of like-minded people passionate about diving. - Become A Diving Instructor
As mentioned, Koh Tao attracts divers from around the world. You can make up to USD $3,000 a month if you have a coaching certificate. - Great Spot For Digital Nomads
If diving is not one of your talents, you can also live there as a digital nomad. There are a lot of cafes and co-working spaces for you to meet new people and build connections.
Conclusion: Koh Tao is the top choice for diving enthusiasts and beach lovers. An easy-going way of life can be found here with a chance for you to join the community for a more rewarding expat experience.
Important Note Before Relocating
Relocating is never easy. It’s essential to prioritize securing comprehensive health insurance before you relocate. This helps protect you from unexpected medical bills and ensures access to the best treatments possible.
Are you looking for health insurance coverage in Thailand? Pacific Prime can help you compare and find the best international health insurance from reputed insurers worldwide. Our team of expert advisors can support you throughout your insurance journey. Contact us today to kickstart your relocation!
If you feel like Thailand is not quite what you’re looking for after reading this article, you might be interested in exploring the best places to live in Vietnam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best places to live in Thailand?
The best places to live in Thailand include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Chonburi, Lopburi, Nan, Korat, Kanchanaburi, and Krabi. It depends on your priorities and what you are looking for.
Which areas of Thailand are considered to be the safest for residents?
Thailand is generally safe to live in. However, you might have to watch out for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
In which parts of Thailand do many expats choose to live?
Most expats who relocated to Thailand as digital nomads would choose to be in major cities like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. They all have great transportation and allow easy connection with other expats within the massive community.
Where is the most affluent area in Thailand where wealthy Thai people live?
Bangkok is one of those cities for sure. It has a higher cost of living compared to other cities in Thailand. Bangkok is also where the biggest companies are located. It is the city that has everything to offer.
Is it possible to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in Thailand with a monthly budget of USD $3000?
Yes, that is definitely possible. Even if you choose to stay in a major city like Bangkok, USD $3,000 a month should be enough to provide you with a comfortable lifestyle. With that budget, you can afford to live in a fancy condominium with every facility you can think of.
Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).
Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
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