Detailed Breakdown of Popular Locations for Expats in Thailand

Bangkok has the jobs and the traffic; Chiang Mai has the mountains and the smoke. Here’s how seven popular expat bases in Thailand, from Phuket to Samut Prakan, compare on cost, transport, healthcare, and community.

Deciding where to live is one of the first things that expats need to do when planning to move to Thailand.

Many people only think about Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket. Are these really the most suitable places for you?

In this article, we are going to break down the popular provinces for expats in Thailand, including their cost of living, transportation options, health care services, food choices, facilities, and expat communities.

Premium guide

This guide is part of ExpatDen Premium

Premium members get the full guide, plus every other premium guide for Thailand, Mexico and anywhere abroad.

  • 205 in-depth premium guides
  • Thailand, Mexico and anywhere abroad
  • Thailand Move Planner and Document Helper
  • Up to 10% off a trusted Thai visa agent
US$39.99billed once a year60-day money-back guarantee
Sponsored
ExpatDen Premium Subscription cover
Start Your New Life in Thailand Worry-Free
With over a hundred pieces of in-depth content written by the experts, we make Thailand easy. Whether you're moving for business or pleasure, our guides will save you money, help you navigate the usual obstacles and ensure you make the most of one of the world's most dynamic countries.
FIND OUT MORE

Moving to Thailand? Start Here

These are the must-read guides every expat should go through before relocating.

Get Your Free Thailand Cheat Sheet

Essential tips and resources for living in Thailand — delivered straight to your inbox.

Questions About This Article?
Please post them in our Reddit community at /r/expatden.