In this article, we’re going to tell you what you need to know about the 6 best places for expats to live in Thailand, in the ultimate list.

From the hustle and bustle party life of Bangkok to the tranquil beach village life in Hua Hin, to the stunning island setting of Koh Samui, and the tourist hub of Phuket, as well as the natural beauty of Chiang Mai and the convenient and exciting lifestyle in Pattaya.

Come with us as we take you on a journey to find your perfect place in paradise.

Bangkok

Pros:

• Vibrant City Life: Bangkok offers a dynamic and diverse urban experience with endless entertainment, dining, and cultural options.
• Job Opportunities: As Thailand’s business hub, Bangkok provides a wide range of job opportunities, especially in international companies and teaching.
• Modern Infrastructure: The city has excellent public transport, healthcare, and shopping, catering to expats who want modern amenities.

Cons:

• High Cost of Living: Bangkok’s cost of living, especially in prime areas, can be significantly higher than in other Thai cities.
• Traffic Congestion: The city is notorious for its traffic jams, making commuting long and stressful during peak hours.
• Pollution Levels: Air quality in Bangkok can be a concern due to pollution, particularly in densely populated areas.

Cost of Living:

• Between ฿60,000 to ฿100,000 per month for one person comfortably. 
• Cost varies depending on the area, with higher expenses in central locations like Sukhumvit or Silom.

As one of the most visited cities globally, it remains a top destination for millions of international visitors annually.

The city where you can find practically anything you can imagine, and dine in the best restaurants and rooftop bars in the world.

Bangkok is famous for many things – and rightly so!

For city dwellers, this is the place to be.

Many people who are used to the city life like in New York, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or any big city will feel right at home in Bangkok.

It’s one of the most diverse cities in the world, with some of the best cuisine you won’t find anywhere else.

Shop till you drop in what we believe is the shopping capital of Southeast Asia with state of the art malls all over the city.

Hua Hin

Pros:

• Relaxed Beach Lifestyle: Hua Hin offers a more laid-back lifestyle with beautiful beaches and a tranquil environment, ideal for retirees and families.
• Close to Bangkok: The town’s proximity to Bangkok makes it easy for expats to enjoy the city while living in a quieter location.
• Affordable Living: Hua Hin provides affordable living costs, particularly in housing and daily expenses, compared to other beach destinations.

Cons:

• Limited Nightlife: Hua Hin’s nightlife and entertainment options are more limited compared to cities like Bangkok or Pattaya.
• Fewer Job Opportunities: The job market in Hua Hin is small, with most opportunities in hospitality or teaching.
• Slower Pace: The slower pace of life may not suit younger expats or those looking for a more vibrant social scene.

Cost of Living:

• Between ฿50,000 to ฿80,000 for a single individual.
• Hua Hin offers a more affordable coastal lifestyle, especially in terms of housing and daily expenses.

Hua Hin, often considered one of the best cities for expats to live in Thailand, offers a perfect blend of seaside living and modern conveniences.

Located just 2.5 to 4 hours from Bangkok, depending on traffic, this coastal town is often compared to the Hamptons for its upscale yet relaxed vibe.

With a mild climate year-round and some of the lowest rainfall in the country, Hua Hin’s long, pristine beaches are a major attraction.

Expats enjoy not only the beach but also the stunning mountain views to the west, marking the border between Thailand and Myanmar.

For those who love nature, Hua Hin is a paradise.

The area boasts more than six top-tier golf courses, nature parks, waterfalls, and other outdoor attractions—all within an hour’s drive.

It’s also home to world-class amenities, including international hospitals, schools, shopping malls, and a soon-to-expand airport.

Hua Hin truly embodies the “slow life” philosophy, where you can enjoy the best of Thailand’s culture and comforts without the hustle and bustle of larger cities. 

In short, if you’re searching for **the best place for expats to live in Thailand**, Hua Hin is a top contender, offering comfort, beauty, and affordability.

Keep Stonehead Real Estate in mind if you’re thinking of buying or renting a property in Hua Hin – house, condo or land.

Stonehead Real Estate is your favourite agent in Hua Hin.

Phuket

Pros:

• Tropical Island Living: Phuket offers stunning beaches, tropical weather, and a range of outdoor activities, making it perfect for those who enjoy a beach lifestyle.
• International Community: With a large expat population, Phuket has a wide range of international schools, businesses, and social communities.
• Good Infrastructure: Phuket has developed infrastructure with good healthcare, shopping malls, and international flights.

Cons:

• Higher Cost of Living: Phuket is one of the most expensive places to live in Thailand, particularly in terms of rent and imported goods.
• Tourism Crowds: Being a popular tourist destination, Phuket can feel crowded and busy, especially in peak season.
• Traffic and Infrastructure Strain: Traffic congestion and overstretched infrastructure can be issues during the high tourist season.

Cost of Living:

• Between ฿60,000 to ฿120,000 for one person.
• Phuket is one of the more expensive cities, particularly in terms of rent in prime beach areas and imported goods.

Phuket, **one of the best cities for expats to live in Thailand**, is world-renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and stunning beaches.

Often compared to paradise, Phuket offers a dream life with its pristine beaches, high-end beach clubs, and breathtaking sea-view villas that have been featured in Hollywood films.

The island is a magnet for A-list celebrities, thanks to its unmatched beauty and vibrant social scene.

Phuket is more than just a tourist destination.

It has everything expats need for a comfortable life, from international schools and hospitals to world-class golf courses and shopping malls.

The island also has a large international airport, making travel convenient.

Pattaya

Pros:

• Lively Social Scene: Pattaya is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options, making it appealing to expats who enjoy an active social life.
• Affordable Housing: Housing in Pattaya is generally affordable compared to Bangkok and Phuket, making it a good choice for expats on a budget.
• Proximity to Bangkok: Pattaya’s close proximity to Bangkok offers easy access to the capital while maintaining a more relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Cons:

• Overcrowded Tourist Areas: Pattaya is a popular tourist destination, which can lead to overcrowded areas, particularly during peak season.
• Limited Professional Opportunities: Job options for expats outside of tourism and hospitality are relatively limited compared to Bangkok.
• Reputation for Nightlife: Pattaya’s reputation as a party destination may not appeal to those looking for a quieter, family-friendly environment.

Cost of Living:

• Between ฿45,000 to ฿75,000 
• Pattaya has affordable housing and daily expenses but can vary depending on the neighborhood and lifestyle.

Pattaya City, located along Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast, is one of the most popular destinations for expats looking to live in Thailand. 

Famous for its vibrant nightlife, beachside living, and diverse community, Pattaya offers a blend of urban excitement and tropical charm. 

The city boasts a wide range of housing options, from luxury condos to affordable apartments, making it suitable for various budgets.

With excellent healthcare facilities, international schools, and plenty of amenities catered to foreigners, Pattaya is ideal for expats seeking a lively, convenient lifestyle.

The city’s proximity to Bangkok and international airports adds to its appeal, making it one of the best cities for expats to live in Thailand.

Chiang Mai

Pros:

• Affordable Cost of Living: Chiang Mai offers a lower cost of living compared to other major cities, making it ideal for expats looking for affordability without compromising on quality of life.
• Rich Cultural Experience: With its temples, festivals, and strong local traditions, Chiang Mai provides an immersive cultural experience for expats interested in Thai history and heritage.
• Growing Digital Nomad Scene: The city has a thriving digital nomad community, supported by coworking spaces and affordable Wi-Fi, making it a hotspot for remote workers.

Cons:

• Limited Job Opportunities: While great for digital nomads, traditional job opportunities for foreigners can be limited compared to cities like Bangkok.
• Air Pollution During Burning Season: Chiang Mai suffers from significant air pollution during the annual burning season (February to April), which can affect health and quality of life.
• Smaller Expat Amenities: While the city offers a lot for daily living, it lacks the wide range of modern conveniences and international services available in larger cities like Bangkok.

Cost of Living:

• Between ฿35,000 to ฿60,000 for one person.
• Chiang Mai is known for its affordability, particularly for those seeking a quieter, cultural lifestyle with lower living costs.

Chiang Mai, often regarded as **one of the most popular cities for expats in Thailand**, offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

As Thailand’s second-largest city, it provides a slower pace of life compared to Bangkok, with cooler weather and misty winters that many expats find appealing.

The city is rich in culture, with picturesque temples, mountain resorts, and a thriving coffee scene thanks to local plantations.

It also offers all the modern conveniences, including international schools, shopping malls, and a well-connected airport.

Chiang Mai is ideal for expats seeking a peaceful, affordable lifestyle. However, the annual smog season can be a drawback for some residents.

Koh Samui

Pros:

• Scenic Beauty: Koh Samui is known for its stunning landscapes, including white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and lush forests. 
• Affordable Living: Living costs in Koh Samui are relatively low, especially compared to Western countries. 
• Strong Expat Community: Koh Samui has a welcoming and diverse community of expats, including digital nomads and retirees. 

Cons:

• Small Island Feel: Although Koh Samui offers many attractions, its small size can lead to a sense of isolation over time. Some may feel that the variety of activities and social options is limited compared to larger cities.
• Expensive Flights: Living on Koh Samui means that you can only travel via airport or ferry. The flights are expensive and driving from Samui to or from anywhere is tiring.
• Limited Modern Amenities: While the island has its share of shopping, restaurants, and cafes, it lacks some of the more modern or upscale conveniences that larger cities provide. 

Cost of Living:

• Between ฿50,000 to ฿100,000 for one person.
• Koh Samui’s costs can vary depending on whether you live inland or near the beaches, but it remains relatively affordable compared to other island destinations.

Koh Samui, **another top destination for expats in Thailand**, is an island paradise that offers an incredible lifestyle.

Despite being an island, it has a wealth of activities and attractions, from world-class diving spots to scenic beaches like Chaweng and Lamai.

The island also boasts a golf course and an international airport, making it well-connected and ideal for expats seeking island living with modern conveniences.

Koh Samui is home to a large expat community, with a significant number of French, British, Australian, and other European residents. 

Life on the island can be as laid-back or as active as you want, with stunning beaches, excellent dining, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.