Image Source: FreeImages
Thinking of moving to Thailand? It's a great idea! This country is truly one-of-a-kind with its lush vegetation, beautiful beaches, impressive temples, and friendly locals. But before you pack your bags and head over there, you need to strategize a move that will be beneficial for your long-term stay. You see, not all places in Thailand are perfect for expats. Some may not have the amenities you’ll need to lead a comfortable life; others may not be safe or accessible from a work perspective. Therefore, if you’re considering relocating to this amazing country, read ahead for our list of the top 10 places to live in Thailand if you’re looking for a lifestyle change.
Bangkok
Bangkok is Thailand’s capital and boasts a population of around 10 million people, making it the most populated city in the country. This mega-city also happens to be one of the most cosmopolitan places in the world. If you plan on living in Bangkok, you’ll have a great opportunity to be immersed in an international culture. Bangkok is a great place to live for several reasons. The cost of living here is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it a more affordable place to live. Additionally, the city has a great public transportation system, making it easy to travel around. And if you’re an expat who speaks Thai, Bangkok is a great place to find a job since the city has a large expat community.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the oldest city in Thailand, making it a great place to live for anyone who wants to experience traditional Thai culture. If you’re into learning Thai and enjoy exploring temples, this is one of the most recommended places in Thailand for expats. Moreover, Chiang Mai has a tropical climate year-round, which means you won’t have to deal with drastic temperature changes. If you plan on living in Chiang Mai, you’ll have to be prepared to spend more money on everything since this is one of the more expensive places in the country. In fact, the cost of living here is around 50% higher than Bangkok.
Hua Hin
If you’re looking for a place in Thailand with a more relaxed vibe, Hua Hin may be the best place for you to live. Around 4 million tourists visit this coastal city every year, making it an ideal place for expats who want to enjoy close proximity to beaches. The weather in Hua Hin is also very conducive to outdoor activities, making it an excellent place for people who want to be more active. Furthermore, Huahin has a sizable expat population, which means you can easily connect with others who are pursuing a similar lifestyle. And the best part is that the cost of living in Hua Hin is much lower than in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Ko Samui
This is one of the largest islands in Thailand and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Ko Samui is home to a diverse expat community, making it a great place to live. In fact, the island is known for being a more laid-back kind of place where you can relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Additionally, Samui has great weather all year-round, making it one of the better places to live in Thailand if you’re looking for a tropical climate. If you’re thinking of moving to Samui, know that the cost of living here is the highest in Thailand. Also, the island is less accessible if you’re working in another part of the country.
Ko Tao
If you’re an aquatic person who enjoys snorkeling, scuba diving, or sailing, you’ll probably love living in Ko Tao. This island is a popular destination for water sports and has some of the best diving spots in the world. If you’re someone who enjoys an outdoor lifestyle, this island would probably make a great place for you to live. Moreover, Ko Tao is a small island with a small population, making it easier to make friends with locals. And if you’re looking for a place where the cost of living is lower, Ko Tao is where you’ll want to go. It’s one of the cheapest places to live in Thailand.
Pattaya
Pattaya is a coastal city that’s known as a place for relaxation and fun. This is one of the more touristy cities in Thailand and is packed with beach clubs, spas, and bars. Pattaya is a more Westernized place with a sizable expat community that gives you a chance to meet new people. Moreover, the city has warm weather all year-round, making it a great place to live if you like things hot. If you’re thinking about relocating to Pattaya, keep in mind that it’s one of the more expensive places in the country to live.
Phuket
Located in the south of Thailand, Phuket is another coastal city that’s perfect for people who like the beach. In fact, around 80% of the island is covered in lush vegetation, making it a great place for nature lovers. If you plan on living in Phuket, you’ll enjoy nice weather all year-round, making it a great vacation spot year-round. Phuket is another place in Thailand where the cost of living is relatively high, so you’ll have to be prepared to spend more.
Rayong/Chantanay
If you’re looking for a more suburban lifestyle, an option near the city of Rayong would be great. Rayong is home to several big industries, including a large oil refinery. Moreover, the city is home to a sizable expat community and boasts a low cost of living compared to the rest of Thailand. If you’re thinking of moving to Rayong, know that it’s not a touristy place and you’re more likely to meet other expats, who are generally a more compatible type of person to live with.
The Bottom Line
If you’re thinking about relocating to Thailand, there are plenty of places to choose from. We recommend that you choose a city that offers a good balance between culture and modern amenities. Bangkok and Phuket are two places we recommend. First and foremost, you should base your decision on where to live in Thailand on the lifestyle you want and what you’re most comfortable with. Make sure the place you choose has the right environment for you and has the amenities you need to lead a comfortable lifestyle. There are many other places to live in Thailand, but these 10 cities are among the best options if you’re looking for a different lifestyle. When choosing the best place to live in Thailand, make sure you think about the culture, weather, cost of living, and community. When you’re ready to move to your new home, you should also consider hiring a moving company to make the transition easier.