From a modest solo budget to a family with an international school
THB 35–45K
single person
~$1,000–1,300 a month
THB 55–85K
couple, comfortable
~$1,600–2,400 a month
THB 120K+
family with a child
with international school
THB 12–30K
monthly rent
studio to 2-bed by the sea
The heaviest lines
1
Housing
owning your home deletes the biggest cost
2
Insurance
$60–150/mo at 35–45; $200–300 past 60
3
Schools
THB 250–900K a year, international
Where to live
Pattaya
city + sea, 90 min from Bangkok
−10–20% vs Phuket
Phuket
best schools & beaches, priciest
top of the market
Bangkok
work, business, medicine
baseline
Chiang Mai
the north, freelancer capital
−30–40% vs Bangkok
Don't forget
180 DAYS
Half a year in country =Thai tax residency, with consequences
VISA
Property grants no residency:DTV, Privilege, Non-O or LTR arranged separately
virtoproperty.com · Sources: Public cost-of-living surveys 2026, Virto Property client data · June 2026 For information only — not legal, tax or investment advice.