Thinking about moving from the UK to Thailand? You’re not alone.
With its warm climate, laid-back lifestyle and lower day-to-day costs, Thailand has become a popular destination for British expats. But before making the leap, it’s important to understand how the cost of living in Thailand compares to the UK.
In this guide, we break down everything from rent and groceries to healthcare and transport so you can make an informed decision and plan your international move with confidence.
Is Thailand Cheaper Than the UK?
Put simply, yes, Thailand is widely considered more affordable than the UK across nearly all major living expenses. From rent and utilities to dining out and transportation, your money can go significantly further in Thailand.
While costs will vary depending on your location, the cost of living in Thailand is, on average, 44.7% lower than in the UK. This allows for a more comfortable lifestyle on a lower budget, particularly if your income will stay the same following your move.
Average Cost of Living in Thailand: An Overview
As mentioned previously, the cost of living in Thailand will depend on where you choose to call home. Bustling Bangkok (one of the top 10 destinations for expats in Thailand), laid-back Chiang Mai, or one of the picturesque islands, will offer a variation on the average cost of living. Urban centres and bustling tourist hotspots will typically have slightly higher prices than smaller towns.
To give you a clearer idea of what to expect, we’ve put together some typical costs that you may need to consider when planning your move to Thailand.
Cost of Rent in Thailand (per month)
– 1-bedroom apartment (city centre): £365.00
– 1-bedroom apartment (outside centre): £205.00
– 3-bedroom apartment (family-sized): £917.00
– 3-bedroom apartment (outside centre): £474.00
Groceries and Eating Out
– Milk (1 litre): £1.38
– Loaf of white bread: £1.05
– Eggs (dozen): £1.58
– Chicken fillets (1kg): £2.20
– Apples (1kg): £2.24
– Potatoes (1kg): £1.11
– Water (1.5L): £0.39
– Cappuccino: £1.58
– Domestic beer (0.5L): £1.61
– Bottle of wine (mid-range): £13.79
– Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: £2.30
– Three-course meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant: £20.70
Transport
– One-way ticket (local transport): £0.57
– Monthly public transport pass: £23.00
– Fuel (1L): £0.96
Utilities, Internet & Mobile
– For an 85m² apartment: £60.78 (electric, heating, water, etc.)
– Mobile phone plan: £9.72
– Internet flat rate: £13.61
Sports & Leisure
– Fitness club: £38.29 (monthly for 1 adult)
– Tennis court rent: £7.19 (1 hour at the weekend)
– Cinema, international release: £5.75 (1 seat)
* Prices approximate as of October 2025. Source: Numbeo.
Healthcare in Thailand
When comparing the cost of living in Thailand to the UK, healthcare is a key consideration. While UK residents benefit from the NHS, Thai citizens also have access to a universal healthcare system called the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS). Much like the NHS, this system provides citizens with mostly free public healthcare, with contributions deducted from employed individuals. However, British expats can only access this healthcare if they are employed and paying into the system.
By law, expats are required to have health insurance to cover healthcare costs. Health insurance costs vary significantly depending on any pre-existing conditions.
Private Healthcare Costs
While private healthcare costs vary, these are some examples of what you could expect to pay in Thailand.
– Annual checkup or routine appointment: £68.00
– Overnight hospital stay: £229.00 per day
– Birth with vaginal delivery: £1,448.40
– Heart bypass surgery: £11,278.85
Income Tax in Thailand
Anyone living in Thailand for more than 180 days in a tax year is classified as a Thai tax resident. All residents must file personal income tax returns for their income by March of the year after it was earned. The rate of income tax you pay depends on how much you earn and ranges from 5% to 35%. There are, however, options that can reduce your income tax burden, such as holding an LTR visa for highly skilled individuals, which means you can enjoy a flat income tax rate of 17%.
Where is the Cheapest Place to Live in Thailand?
If you’re aiming to stretch your budget and keep the cost of living in Thailand as low as possible, choosing the right location is key. While major cities like Bangkok and popular tourist destinations like Koh Samui tend to have higher living costs due to demand and expat popularity, several other cities and regions offer more affordable options without compromising on lifestyle or amenities. This includes:
Chiang Mai – Offering a mix of modern conveniences and traditional charm, Chiang Mai is popular with digital nomads, retirees and budget-conscious expats.
Chiang Rai – Though slightly less developed in terms of infrastructure, Chiang Rai has some of the lowest rental prices in the country. Expats here enjoy a quieter lifestyle, access to local markets and friendly communities.
Udon Thani – With extremely affordable living costs, Udon Thani offers a truly authentic Thai experience. While it may not have the nightlife of bigger cities, it’s an excellent choice for those keen to immerse themselves in local culture.
Hua Hin – Looking for beach living without Phuket’s price tag? Hua Hin is a popular coastal town that caters to a growing community of remote professionals.
Cost of Living in Thailand FAQs
Whether you’re planning a short-term stay or a long-term move, we’ve compiled the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about living expenses in Thailand.
Is the cost of living in Thailand really cheaper than in the UK?
Yes, in most categories, Thailand is considerably more affordable than the UK. Rent, food, public transport and personal services can be up to 60% cheaper. The exact difference depends on your location and lifestyle, but many expats find they can live comfortably in Thailand for less than half what they’d spend in the UK.
How much do I need to live comfortably in Thailand?
Excluding rent, estimated monthly costs for a single person are around £464.00, or £1,645.00 for a family of four. This is variable depending on location and lifestyle.
What is the cost of rent in Thailand compared to the UK?
Rent in Thailand is significantly cheaper, with a 1-bed city centre apartment costing around £365 compared to £1,013 in the UK. In smaller Thai cities, you can find quality apartments for around £200 per month.
Are imported goods more expensive in Thailand?
Yes, imported products like wine, cheese and branded groceries can be noticeably more expensive due to import taxes. If you rely heavily on Western brands, then you should expect to spend significantly more on groceries. Shopping at local markets using Thai products can really reduce your grocery costs.
What are the hidden costs of living in Thailand?
Some commonly overlooked costs of living in Thailand include visa renewals, private health insurance, international school fees, currency conversion and international banking fees. It is important that you budget for these costs when planning a move to Thailand.
If learning about the cost of living in Thailand has made a move to the Land of Smiles even more appealing, get in touch with Bishop’s Move. Our international removals service will ensure your move is seamless, from your first enquiry to unpacking the last box.
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