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Cost Of Living In Thailand Compared To UK 2024

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    If you have ever wondered what the cost of living in Thailand is compared to the UK, then this article will serve you well as we will be covering the cost of living in Thailand in pounds and go through some of the most important financial areas and things to consider when leaving the UK and starting a new life in Thailand.

    In my early 20s, many years ago, I left my home in Cambridgeshire and started a new life in Thailand. For many years I’ve lived in many cities and provinces around Thailand; thus, I will be sharing with you the latest financial figures covering many areas in Thailand and comparing these to the latest prices in the UK.

    Cost Of Living In Thailand In Pounds

    When deciding to move to Thailand from the UK, costs are an essential thing to consider. We often get asked: What is the total cost of living in Thailand compared to the UK?

    Thailand is one of those particular countries where there is a home for every type of person; this includes the super-rich all the way to those who are budgeting.

    The overall cost of living in Thailand compared to the UK differs depending on your lifestyle; however, as an estimate for a one-person living a standard lifestyle, you can live comfortably on less than £1200 a month.

    If you are looking to save even more, it is recommended to move into a more suitable area such as Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. A single expat can live very comfortably on £700 and in some cases less in these areas.

    It is recommended for two adults and two children (a small family) to budget at least £2000 -£2750 a month. This includes some added extras such as insurance as well as essential school expenses (Again, this can be much lower in some areas).

    Below we will be diving into different categories, including the most significant household expenses and comparing the cost of living in Thailand to the UK.

    Rental Costs Thailand Vs UK

    Rental costs differ depending on the location. In general, the popular islands, such as Koh Samui, Phuket, etc., and the capital Bangkok are the most expensive areas. Rent can be 30-60% higher in these areas compared to other popular areas in Thailand.  

    For a standard one-bedroom condominium in Bangkok, you can expect to pay between 12,000 – 16,000 Baht. The cost of living in Thailand in pounds is £278 – £371. Compare this to Chiang Mai, for instance. A standard one-bedroom condominium can cost anywhere from 7,000 – 10,000 Baht (£162 – £232).

    In other words, the north is much much much cheaper than the islands and the capital, which can be expected.

    The islands are somewhat difficult to estimate as it depends on where on the island you are living. Many expats decide to set up in a tourist area close to gyms, shops, and beaches. Therefore prices are slightly higher. From looking at the latest statistics, prices fluctuate between 8,000 – 15,000 Baht, which is between Bangkok and Chiang Mai prices.

    Additionally, certain roads in Bangkok in several areas are more expensive. The most popular end tourist area is a road called Sukhumvit. This road stretches across the city. Many condos are situated very close to the BTS (sky train) and thus are slightly more expensive than apartments and condominiums outside of this area.

    Rental costs are often very cheap, and certain utilities are monitored closely by the government, so companies can not overcharge residents. Internet is often very cheap. For example, my total household bills have been as high as £60 (very high, right? Ha-Ha)  and as low as £10. It is pennies compared to the prices you will be paying in the UK

    Recent Cost Of Living In Thailand Compared To UK

    Rent (Excluding Bills) – Thailand – 7,000 Baht – 15,000 Baht (£162 – £348)

    Rent (Excluding Bills) –  UK – £450 – £800 (19,000 – 34,000 Baht)

    Transportation Costs Thailand Vs UK

    Transportation costs in Thailand compared to the UK are also considerably cheaper. If you are looking at the cost of living in Thailand in pounds, you will likely be moving to Thailand shortly, and if this is the case, you have many different options for transportation.

    Many expats living in Thailand decide to rent a motorcycle that can be rented between 2000-3000 Baht a month (£45 – £70). You can lower this price slightly if you choose an older model, but this tends to be the range for a standard motorcycle. Many motorcycles can also be purchased for less than 1000 pounds.

    It’s also straightforward for foreigners to gain a Thai license. A Thai license is often recommended because if the police stop you (which is a frequent occurrence), they could fine your if you do not show it. Usually, the fine is 500 Baht (£11-£12). Once it is paid, you can then be on your way.

    Alternatively, you have the option to rent a car which again depends on the model. A monthly rental cost can average between 15,000 – 22,000 Baht (£348 – £512). Many different types of vehicles can be hired, such as pickup trucks and electric bikes.

    Aside from private transportation, costs in Thailand versus the UK can be much lower if you choose a TukTuk, Songthaew, etc.

    Lastly, in Thailand, a corporation named grab dominates many areas such as food delivery and transportation. On the app, you can order a taxi, and costs depend on where you are situated in Thailand, but a one-mile journey in a private SUV can cost as little as £2-£3.

    Recent Cost Of Living In Thailand Compared To UK

    Transportation Costs (Based On Private Transport)  Thailand – 2000 – 3000 Baht (£46 – £70)

    Transportation Costs  (Based On Private Transport) –  UK – £100+  (4,300+ Baht)

    Food Costs Thailand Vs UK

    If this is your first time in Thailand and you are wondering about the food then let me tell you you are going to have such a fantastic time in Thailand as the Thai food is phenomenal! not only is it phenomenal but the costs of Thai food compared to the UK is ridiculously cheap.

    Many people, both foreign and locals, eat out daily as it is very inexpensive. Prices in the most popular areas such as Bangkok and the islands in the South cost more money due to the high levels of tourism. Weston food & vegan food is also much more expensive compared to traditional Thai food.

    However, in the North, where prices are low, you can expect to pay around 60 baht for chicken rice soup and a drink (£1.40). Bangkok, for instance, offers similar meals but tends to be slightly higher, but many cheap eats can be found.

    So, how much do you need to budget for food each month? As long as you do not have any specific requirements, such as being a vegan, you can expect to pay 40-60%+ less than you are paying in the UK. However, if you are situated in a tourist area, this can drop to as low as 20% lower.

    I am a “big foodie,” but I spend less than £200 a month on food. However, I do eat reasonably cheaply and only eat out at expensive restaurants once in a while. For comparison, a friend of mine survives on less than £70 a month. Therefore it does depend on your appetite.

    Recent Cost Of Living In Thailand Compared To UK

    Food Costs Thailand – 4300 – 8600 Baht (£100 – £200)

    Food Costs –  UK – £250+  (10,700+ Baht)

    Fitness & Leisure Costs Thailand Vs UK

    When I first decided to move to Thailand from the UK, one cultural shock was that the premium fitness gyms were at similar prices to the premium fitness gyms back in the UK. However, many cheap gyms can be found all across the country.

    My gym costs £40 a month, which is similar prices to the gym in the UK; however, there are many lower quality gyms with a membership price of £15-£20. indeed there are many free fitness classes and equipment set up in parks all around the country.

    Lifestyle costs are also another essential factor when looking at the cost of living in Thailand compared to the UK. One question commonly asked is how much is alcohol in Thailand?

    Alcoholic prices are reasonably cheap compared to the UK, especially when looking at the strength of the alcohol in each glass. for example, in the UK, a mixed alcoholic beverage can sometimes be very weak (you probably know what I’m talking about here) but this is much rarer in Thailand some drinks are so strong you will only need one or two to have a fantastic night.

    Prices of activities and hobbies range dramatically depending on the level of tourism in the area. For example, one area of Phucket is home to many Russian millionaires, and thus, locals have increased their prices accordingly. These activities can be found a small drive away or nearly half the price.

    Recent Cost Of Living In Thailand Compared To UK

    Fitness & Leisure Costs Thailand – 2500+ Baht (£58+)

    Fitness & Leisure Costs UK – £100+ (4300+ Baht)

    Other Thailand Costs In Pounds

    The cost of living in Thailand in pounds is something we have covered in today’s article. Still, there are also some other expenses that we have not talked about, which may be appropriate to you depending on your situation.

    One example is insurance. Many of us do not have health insurance in the UK as the National Health Service covers us; however, health can be expensive in Thailand. Thus local health insurance is often recommended.

    Health insurance in the UK for a small holiday in Thailand will be sufficient. Still, if you are moving to Thailand, then health insurance from the UK can be costly and complicated if you need to contact them due to an emergency. Therefore it is often much simpler to arrange health insurance when you are situated in Thailand.

    It is recommended to have at least £200 spare each month as this will be useful for any unplanned expenses or to be invested for the future.

    Covid-19 Costs In Thailand.

    The prices quoted above are based on the typical price. During COVID-19, prices decreased throughout Thailand. Depending on the time you are reading this. If covid has passed and the tourism gates are open again, you can expect prices to be slightly higher. However, only slightly. It will take many years for the prices to rise to the previous peak levels.

    It’s effortless to negotiate during these times as often business owners are desperate for customers, and long-term agreements can be made which can help you in the short and long term.

    In other words, now is the perfect time to come to Thailand!  

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