What is the cost of living in Thailand?

Obsido Immo Thailand - What is the cost of living in Thailand? - Feat -
The Bath safe-haven currency

Significantly lower than the cost of living in France, Thailand attracts many people from all walks of life each year. Entrepreneurs, investors, tourists, and retirees alike find many advantages to living in the Kingdom. However, is this the case everywhere in the country? What is the cost of living in Thailand? Obsido Immo provides you with all the key information you need for your investment and your life in Thailand!

Thai salary VS your French salary

To begin, it's important to remember the conversion from euros to baht. One euro is equivalent to thirty-five Thai baht. The minimum wage in Thailand is only 9,390 baht. To save you the calculation, that's €268 per month. In Bangkok, the average salary is €670 per month. That's low compared to European salaries, and especially French ones! However, keep in mind that your lifestyle there won't be the same as that of a Thai person earning the minimum wage. 

Real estate in Thailand and finding accommodation

The main difference between an expatriate who spends little and an expatriate who spends almost as much as in France will be in the housing and choice of living space.

By choosing to live in provincial towns or villages in Thailand, a monthly rent for comfortable accommodation will cost around 4,000 baht. On the other hand, if you choose to live in Bangkok, your furnished and equipped apartment will cost between 15,000 and 30,000 baht. Keep in mind that food and entertainment are more expensive in Bangkok than in provincial towns. But don't worry, it's still very affordable for most French people!

You can also opt for a leisure investment , allowing you to spend a few months each year in your property in Thailand. Obsido Immo can assist you with this type of solution! For the rest of the time, you won't have to worry about renting it out upon your return to France; your returns are contractually guaranteed by the developer at 5% to 8%, depending on the chosen program. We consider each investor unique, so please don't hesitate to contact us at this address so we can provide you with a customized proposal: [email protected ]

The cost of food in Thailand

Cooking at home is very affordable in Thailand. By buying local produce, you can find fruits and vegetables for less than €1 per kilo, chicken for less than €5 per kilo, and a dozen eggs for €1. However, don't count on imported products, which are generally more expensive than in France.

Eating out or in a restaurant is very affordable in Thailand: prices are very attractive. For a small street food stall or takeaway, expect to pay between €1 and €2 per person. If you prefer a more upscale restaurant, you can expect to pay around €10 per person on average.

Leisure and pleasure: a nice addition

Obviously, moving to a country like Thailand, where the cost of living is low, allows you to enjoy very inexpensive services that would be difficult to afford in France. Housekeeping, cooking, massages, and even grocery delivery: these services are available at an affordable price thanks to Thailand's minimum daily wage of €8. Access to these premium services is therefore yet another reason to invest in and live in Thailand.

Finally, you can take a trip to the Thai islands to go scuba diving. Admire the beauty of the underwater wildlife in idyllic settings for prices to suit all budgets. Diving costs around €30 in Phuket.

In short, the cost of living in Thailand is relatively low compared to the cost of living in France. Choosing where to live also means choosing the cost of living in Thailand. So select the cities or islands that appeal to you most and choose a quality real estate investment on Obsido Immo.

Join The Discussion

20 thoughts on “What is the cost of living in Thailand?”

  • Orta-le jamtel

    How much money do you need to live on for 3 weeks on holiday for 2 people in Thailand?

    Reply
    • admin

      Dear Orta-le jamtel,

      Thank you for your interest in our article on the cost of living in Thailand. For a three-week stay for two people, the budget will vary depending on your lifestyle. On average, expect to spend around €1,000 to €1,500 for a comfortable stay, including accommodation, meals, and various activities.

      Furthermore, your interest in Thailand might also extend to real estate investment. As experts in this field, we at Obsido Immo can help you explore profitable investment opportunities that can also facilitate and enrich your future stays in Thailand. Please feel free to contact us to discuss this further.

      Sincerely,

      Sammy LAVOREL – Obsido Immo
      Real estate and investment specialists in Thailand
      📞 +66 80 396 5978
      📧 [email protected]

      Invest wisely in Thailand.
      🌐 Learn more – https://obsidoimmo.com
      📅 Book an appointment – https://meetings.hubspot.com/sammy-lavorel-obsido-immo/rdv

      Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      For a 3-week trip for two people to Thailand (excluding airfare), budget:
      • 60,000 to 80,000 baht in basic mode
      • 90,000 to 150,000 baht for a comfortable stay
      • 150,000 baht and up if you choose 4-5 star hotels and private excursions

      It all depends on the city and the hotel category.

      If you tell me where you want to go, I can give you a more accurate estimate.

      Sincerely.
      Sammy
      Obsido Immo
      https://obsidoimmo.com

      Reply
  • Soules

    Hello, I'm going to Thailand at the end of March for 10 days. Thank you for sharing.
    Katia.

    Reply
  • Late

    Can you meet people to rebuild your love life?

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      Yes, of course. Thailand is a social country, you can easily meet people… but it all depends on the city and your pace of life.

      The easiest way to start over on the right foot:
      You come for a few weeks first, you test an area, you see if you can see yourself there.

      If you tell me your age and the city you are interested in, I can direct you to places where social life is most natural (without falling into tourist clichés).

      Sincerely.
      Sammy
      Obsido Immo
      https://obsidoimmo.com

      Reply
  • Sherkhan

    When was this article published, please?

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      Thanks for your question.

      The article in question was published in 2025 and the data has been updated with the price levels recently observed in Thailand.

      That said, you are right to ask the question:
      The cost of living changes regularly (local inflation, baht fluctuations, changes in the rental market, etc.).

      If you wish, please tell me:
      • The city that interests you
      • Whether it's for living there year-round or for a few months
      • Your approximate budget

      I can give you concrete and current figures, tailored to your situation, rather than a general average.

      In Thailand, the differences can be significant from one city to another.
      A single overall figure is never enough.

      Sincerely.

      Sammy
      Obsido Immo
      The real estate and investment specialist in Thailand
      https://obsidoimmo.com

      Reply
  • Vasserot

    Hello
    I'm thinking of moving to Thailand to spend my retirement
    In 15 months.
    cordially
    Philippe Vasserot

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello Philippe,

      Thank you for your message! Thailand is an ideal destination for a peaceful and sunny retirement. With 15 months to go before your departure, now is the perfect time to start planning.

      Have you already thought about the region where you would like to settle? Among the most popular destinations for expats are:
      ✔ Hua Hin: Safe, with an excellent quality of life, good medical infrastructure and a well-established expat community.
      ✔ Pattaya: More dynamic, with a wide range of real estate options and a lively social life.
      ✔ Phuket: An island offering a paradisiacal living environment, although more touristy.
      ✔ Chiang Mai: Ideal if you are looking for a milder climate and a more affordable cost of living.

      We assist many expatriates with their relocation to Thailand, whether they are buying or renting a property that suits their lifestyle and needs. If you would like to discuss your plans further, we would be delighted to talk with you.

      Reply
    • admin

      Hello Philippe,

      15 months is perfect.
      This is exactly the right timeframe to intelligently prepare for retirement in Thailand.

      The first thing to clarify:
      • Which city?
      • Rent or buy?
      • Available monthly budget?

      Next, we structure:

      1️⃣ The retirement visa
      2️⃣ Health insurance
      3️⃣ Accommodation
      4️⃣ Taxation and banking management

      A retirement plan here cannot be improvised, but with good preparation, it can offer an exceptional quality of life.

      If you wish, please give me some details about your budget and the region that appeals to you.
      We can frame all of this neatly.

      Reply
  • Damien Pieters

    Hello
    I am 63 years old and I am considering spending my retirement in Thailand.
    Kosamui?

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      Thank you for your message and your interest in Thailand as a retirement destination. At 63, settling here can be a strategic choice due to the attractive cost of living, pleasant year-round climate, and quality medical infrastructure.

      Koh Samui is a popular island thanks to its idyllic setting, but it also attracts many expats and tourists, which can sometimes impact the tranquility and cost of living. If you're looking for a more peaceful alternative with a vibrant French-speaking community, Hua Hin could be an ideal option. This seaside town is highly regarded for its balance between modernity and authenticity, boasting beautiful beaches, quality medical services, and a calmer atmosphere than some other tourist islands.

      Every retirement plan is unique, and we would be delighted to discuss yours in more detail to advise you on the best destination and real estate opportunities suited to your lifestyle. Don't hesitate to contact us to discuss it further!

      Reply
    • admin

      Hello Damien,

      At 63, you are clearly in the right window to consider retiring in Thailand.

      Koh Samui is a beautiful island: turquoise sea, relaxed atmosphere, pleasant climate for a good part of the year. But we need to be realistic about certain points:
      • The cost of living there is higher than in Hua Hin or Chiang Mai.
      • The medical services are adequate, but less developed than in Bangkok.
      • The island remains dependent on tourism, which impacts prices and seasonality.

      For a successful retirement in Samui, you must above all:
      • A well-structured retirement visa
      • Solid health insurance
      • A realistic monthly budget (housing + daily living expenses)

      Many fall in love with the island while on holiday.
      Living there year-round is a different story. You have to try it out before settling down permanently.

      If you tell me your monthly budget and whether you plan to rent or buy, I can give you a more concrete idea.

      Reply
  • Bagtache

    Hello, I am retired and would like to know how much it would cost to rent a small one-bedroom/studio apartment (F2/studio) half a kilometer from the sea in Pattaya, with a kitchen and bathroom, for a three-month stay from September to November 2025. I plan to hire a housekeeper/cook three times a week for the entire duration of the stay (3 months). Thank you in advance.

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      Thank you for your message, your project is clear and well-defined — it's always easier to give a serious estimate.

      For 3 months in Pattaya (September to November), here is a realistic projection for 2026.

      📍 Studio/small one-bedroom apartment for rent, 500m – 1km from the sea

      In Pattaya or Jomtien, for a 3-month rental:
      • Decent studio apartment in a residence with swimming pool and security:
      approximately 12,000 to 18,000 baht per month
      • Small 2-room apartment (1 separate bedroom):
      more like 18,000 to 25,000 baht / month

      Over 3 months, this represents:

      👉 36,000 to 75,000 baht depending on the exact standard and the chosen residence.
      Electricity and water are usually charged extra.

      ⸻

      🧹 Housekeeper / kitchen helper – 3 times a week

      The average price in Pattaya:
      • 500 to 700 baht per trip depending on the level of service.

      Over 3 months (approximately 36 visits):

      👉 18,000 to 25,000 baht for the entire period.

      ⸻

      💰 Total budget for housing + housekeeping (3 months)

      You can plan an overall budget of between:

      👉 Approximately 55,000 to 100,000 baht
      (depending on whether you choose a simple studio or a more comfortable two-room apartment).

      ⸻

      Pattaya is vast.
      Between the calm of Jomtien, the more residential Pratumnak, or the more lively center, the atmosphere changes completely — and so do the prices.

      If you specify:
      • Studio or F2 absolutely?
      • Is a swimming pool essential?
      • Quiet neighborhood is essential?

      I can guide you towards the most suitable areas.

      In Thailand, the budget is important… but the choice of neighborhood accounts for 70% of the success of the trip.

      Sincerely.

      Sammy
      Obsido Immo
      The real estate and investment specialist in Thailand
      https://obsidoimmo.com

      Reply
  • View

    Hello, I would like to know what documents are required to move to Thailand.

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      That's an excellent question — and the right approach is precisely to ask it before booking a ticket.

      The paperwork required to live in Thailand depends primarily on the type of visa you're considering. You can't settle here with just a tourist visa.

      Here are the most common cases:

      1️⃣ Retirement visa (50 years and older)

      It is generally necessary to:
      • Valid passport
      • Financial documentation (funds deposited or minimum monthly income required)
      • Health insurance
      • Criminal record
      • Medical certificate

      This is the most commonly used formula for a durable installation.

      2️⃣ Marriage Visa

      If you are married to a Thai citizen, the financial requirements are different, but you must provide:
      • Recognized marriage certificate
      • Financial documentation
      • More complete administrative file

      3️⃣ Work Visa

      First, you need to have a Thai employer who will sponsor the visa and work permit.

      4️⃣ Long-stay visa type LTR

      More recent, aimed at certain profiles (investors, high-income retirees, skilled remote workers). The criteria are more demanding.

      In addition to the visa, you also need to plan for:
      • Solid international or local health insurance
      • Bank account in Thailand
      • Official address (lease agreement or title deed)
      • Regular declarations to immigration (deferred for 90 days)

      It's not complicated... but it's not improvised either.

      If you specify:
      • Your age
      • If you come alone or as a couple
      • Your situation (retired, employed, investor)

      I can guide you towards the most suitable visa and explain the steps to you in detail.

      Moving to Thailand can be a very nice project — provided you are well structured from the start.

      Sincerely.

      Sammy
      Obsido Immo
      The real estate and investment specialist in Thailand
      https://obsidoimmo.com

      Reply
  • Mouveau

    Hello, we are retired and have already visited Thailand from Chiang Mai to Hua Hin, and we really enjoyed it. We are looking for a villa with a swimming pool for a year's rental, not too far from the beach and the city center, but fairly quiet.

    Reply
    • admin

      Hello,

      Thank you for your message — and you have good taste, Hua Hin often appeals to people who have already taken the time to compare it with Chiang Mai or other regions.

      For a villa with a pool for annual rental, close to the beach and center, but in a quiet environment, you enter into a fairly specific search… and that is precisely where Hua Hin is interesting.

      It is important to know that:
      • Villas close to the centre and the beach are rare.
      • Absolute calm in the city center doesn't really exist.
      • The best compromise is often found 5–10 minutes by car from the centre (Soi 94, Hin Lek Fai, Khao Takiab residential side, or some secure villages a little further away).

      For a 2-3 bedroom villa with private pool for long-term rental (1 year), expect to pay:
      • 30,000 to 55,000 baht per month depending on the standard, year of construction and actual proximity to the beach.
      • Below, you can sometimes find… but you have to be quick and accept some concessions.

      The key point regarding annual rentals here:
      Good products never stay available for long. June/July is a strategic period, so you should start looking seriously 2–3 months before your arrival.

      If you wish, please tell me:
      • Your actual maximum budget
      • The desired number of bedrooms
      • Whether a private pool is essential or if a village with a shared pool would be suitable
      • Your exact arrival date

      I can guide you towards specific sectors and tell you very honestly what is realistic.

      In Hua Hin, the secret is not to search everywhere.
      It's about aiming accurately.

      Looking forward to exchanging ideas with you,

      Sammy
      Obsido Immo
      The real estate and investment specialist in Thailand
      https://obsidoimmo.com

      Reply