If you’re considering a move to Thailand, the city you choose to settle in can significantly impact your living costs. In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the cheapest cities to live in in Thailand. We’re not going to include super rural areas here, though. We’re only looking at cities with populations of 50,000 and above. And we’ll back it all up with data from Numbeo. Let’s get into the details regarding the cheapest cities to see where you can stretch your dollar—or baht—without sacrificing too many comforts.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, sometimes called the “Rose of the North,” is not just a place for temple goers, hippies, and tourists with elephant pants. It’s also one of the most affordable cities in Thailand for expats and digital nomads. Let’s take a look at some of the numbers.
Cost of Living in Chiang Mai
- Housing: Rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 12,000 THB ($350) per month. Go a bit further out, and you’re looking at 6,000 THB ($175). There are many great Facebook groups that showcase cheap rentals.
- Food: Eating out at a local restaurant will cost you about 50 THB ($1.50) per meal. If you’re into Western food, you’re looking at around 200 THB ($6) per meal.
Lifestyle
Chiang Mai has a large expat community, with plenty of coffee shops and coworking spaces. The pace of life is slow and relaxed, but you won’t miss out on modern amenities. There’s always something happening, whether it’s a local festival, a market, or a yoga retreat. If you’re into exploring, the surrounding nature offers mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Chiang Rai
Next up is Chiang Rai, often overshadowed by its more famous cousin, Chiang Mai. But Chiang Rai is a gem in itself. It’s quieter, less touristy, and yes, even cheaper.
Cost of Living in Chiang Rai
- Housing: Expect to pay around 8,000 THB ($230) per month for a one-bedroom apartment within the city center. Venture out, and you’re looking at around 4,000 THB ($115).
- Food: Local meals are dirt cheap at 40 THB ($1.15) each. Western meals will cost around 150 THB ($4.50).
Lifestyle
Chiang Rai is home to some of Thailand’s best temples, including the famous White Temple. It’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter life with fewer tourists. The local markets are great and offer everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The expat community here is smaller but tight-knit, with plenty of local events to keep you entertained.
Udon Thani
Udon Thani might not be on every tourist’s radar, but it’s a favorite among expats looking for a cheaper lifestyle. Located in the northeastern part of Thailand, it’s known for its proximity to Laos and a more authentic Thai experience.
Cost of Living in Udon Thani
- Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom in the city center is about 7,000 THB ($200) per month. On the outskirts, you’ll find places for around 3,500 THB ($100).
- Food: Eating out at local spots costs about 45 THB ($1.30) per meal. Western meals are around 130 THB ($4).
Lifestyle
Udon Thani offers a mix of urban and rural life, with a generally slow pace of life. The city’s expat community is growing, though it’s still much smaller than places such as Chiang Mai.
Khon Kaen
Khon Kaen is known as the commercial and educational hub of northeastern Thailand. While it’s more business-oriented, it doesn’t mean you’ll be paying through the nose to live here.
Cost of Living in Khon Kaen
- Housing: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center goes for around 10,000 THB ($290) per month. Outside the city center, you’re looking at about 5,000 THB ($145).
- Food: Local food costs about 50 THB ($1.50) per meal, with Western meals at about 180 THB ($5.30).
Lifestyle
Khon Kaen offers plenty of modern comforts, shopping centers, and an active nightlife. It’s also home to several universities, which gives the city a youthful vibe.
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat)
Nakhon Ratchasima, or “Korat,” as it’s commonly known, is the gateway to the Isaan region. And it’s one of the largest cities in Thailand.
Cost of Living in Nakhon Ratchasima
- Housing: Rent in the city center for a one-bedroom apartment is around 9,000 THB ($260) per month. Outside the city center, you’ll find places for about 4,500 THB ($130).
- Food: Local meals cost about 40 THB ($1.15) each, with Western meals around 150 THB ($4.30).
Lifestyle
Korat is home to several historical sites and modern shopping centers. The city’s strategic location makes it a great base for exploring the rest of the Isaan region.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin might be known as a beach resort town, but it’s also one of the more affordable coastal cities in Thailand. If you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle by the sea without the price tag of Phuket, Hua Hin is for you.
Cost of Living in Hua Hin
- Housing: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around 15,000 THB ($430) per month. Further out, you’re looking at about 7,500 THB ($215).
- Food: Local dining costs about 60 THB ($1.75) per meal, with Western meals around 200 THB ($5.80).
Lifestyle
Hua Hin has beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s popular among retirees and expats who enjoy a slower pace of life. The city has a big expat community, with plenty of social clubs and activities.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it, the lowdown on some of the cheapest cities in Thailand to live in. Whether you’re drawn to the mountainous areas of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, or to the beach lifestyle of Hua Hin, Thailand offers a variety of affordable living options.
