Cost of Living in Bangkok
Last updated on Feb 14, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Bangkok, Thailand is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Bangkok can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $800 to $1,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Bangkok is usually around $10 to $15 per person.
Is the cost of living in Bangkok high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bangkok, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Bangkok is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and accommodation are relatively inexpensive compared to other major cities in the world. Eating out at restaurants is also quite affordable, with many local eateries offering delicious meals for a fraction of the cost of similar meals in other countries. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is quite low, making Bangkok an attractive destination for budget travelers," remarked one in Bangkok.

Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Will I save money living in Bangkok?
"Living in Bangkok can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Bangkok is much lower than in the US, with rent, food, and transportation being significantly cheaper. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is also much lower in Bangkok than in the US. As a result, living in Bangkok can be a great way to save money compared to living in the US," remarked one expat in Bangkok.
What is the average cost of housing in Bangkok?
If you are thinking about moving to Bangkok, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Housing costs are higher here, but we live very close to the city so I guess if we were living that close to the city at home it might be the same. Some apartments charge more than the normal rate for electricity and water and with air conditioning on it can start to get expensive. The Orientations guy told us about that and found us a place that does not charge extra," explained one expat living in Bangkok.
"The average cost of housing in Bangkok is generally quite high, with prices ranging from mid-range to luxury. Renting an apartment in the city center can be expensive, while more affordable options can be found in the suburbs," said one expat in Bangkok.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Bangkok?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Bangkok can range from around $500 to $1,500 per month, depending on the location and amenities. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $800 to $2,500 per month, again depending on the location and amenities," remarked one expat living in Bangkok.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Bangkok what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Bangkok typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Some properties may also include a microwave, dishwasher, and water heater," wrote one expat.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Bangkok
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bangkok
- Retire in Bangkok Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Bangkok
- Pros & Cons of Living in Bangkok
- Tips for Expats Driving in Bangkok
- Cost of Living in Bangkok
- Health Care in Bangkok
- Discovering the Best of Bangkok
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Thailand
- Best Places to Live in Thailand
- Pros & Cons of Living in Thailand
- Thailand vs. The Philippines
- Pros and Cons of Living in Thailand 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Thailand