15 Facts about prices for goods and services in Thailand

15 Facts about prices for goods and services in Thailand

When planning even a short vacation to a distant tropical country, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the current costs of necessities and services: prices for groceries, dining out, medicine and healthcare, transportation rentals, as well as local mobile and internet rates. If you’re considering a longer stay or a permanent move to the Kingdom, analysing the local real estate market is equally important.

Content:

1. Average Monthly Expenses

The cost of living in the country is affordable for most expats. Monthly expenses for a family of four amount to approximately USD 2,095, excluding rent. For a single individual, USD 590 is sufficient.

Globally, living on the peninsula is significantly cheaper than in the US, the UK, Japan, Singapore, Australia and much of Europe. However, countries like India, South Africa and smaller cities in other regions offer a lower cost of living than Thailand.

2. Affordable and Delicious

Thai cuisine is known for its diversity. One of the first attractions for tourists is the abundance of exotic fruits, juicy and aromatic. Here, you can savour the famous Thai mango, which costs USD 1–USD 3 per kilogram. Similarly, you can try the distinctive durian for the same price. Seafood is equally popular. Surrounded by the waters of two seas, the country offers a wealth of fresh fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Scallops, oysters, crabs, tuna fillets and even shark can be found at markets, supermarkets or prepared in cafês at reasonable prices. For instance, a kilogram of fresh king prawns costs about USD 8. A lavish seafood dinner for two in a Pattaya restaurant with lobster and wine will set you back around USD 60.

Street food stalls and small local cafês offer budget-friendly and delicious meals, with an average bill ranging from USD 1 to USD 6 per person. Even the most expensive restaurants in Bangkok are more affordable than their counterparts in Europe or the US.

Everyday groceries in Thai supermarkets are similarly priced to major retail chains in other countries:

  • 1 litre of milk: USD 1–USD 3
  • Fresh bread: USD 0.9–USD 3
  • 1 kg of rice: USD 0.5–USD 2
  • 12 eggs: USD 1–USD 3
  • 1 kg of chicken fillet: USD 1–USD 5
  • 1 kg of bananas: USD 0.5–USD 2
  • 1 kg of potatoes: USD 0.8–USD 2
  • 1.5-litre bottle of water: USD 0.3–USD 0.7

A takeaway coffee from a local café or shop costs USD 0.5 to USD 1, while a large cappuccino at Starbucks will be around USD 3.

3. Healthcare Costs

Since 2024, emergency care for foreigners has been provided free of charge. In other cases, a doctor’s visit at a public hospital may cost USD 6 to USD 14, while a consultation at a private clinic ranges from USD 20 to USD88, depending on the complexity of the case.

For this reason, most visitors opt for private health insurance. Monthly premiums vary depending on the type of coverage. Comprehensive plans, including maternity care, inpatient and outpatient services and dental coverage, range from USD 60 to USD 88 per month.

15 Facts about prices for goods and services in Thailand

4. Mobile and Internet Services

The country boasts a well-developed communication network, offering various plans for mobile phones, internet and cable TV.

The average monthly cost for a mobile internet and data plan is USD 7 to USD 17. Home internet connection prices range from USD 11 to USD 25 per month, depending on the plan. Fibre-optic connections cost USD 35 to USD 59 monthly.

5. Transportation Costs

Thailand has a well-developed public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and underground metro in Bangkok, buses, songthaews (open pickup trucks), taxis, tuk-tuks and more.

Public transportation in Thailand is generally cheaper than in many other countries, although the comfort level, particularly in local transport, is subjective and varies greatly.

As a result, many expats prefer to rent cars or motorbikes. Car rentals cost around USD 30 per day, while motorbike rentals range from USD 6 to USD 12 per day. The longer the rental period, the more cost-effective it becomes.

For comparison, renting a car in Singapore would cost USD 60 to USD 70 per day and a motorbike, USD 37 per day.

Fuel costs typically range from USD 1 to USD 1.5 per litre. Be sure to factor in other driving-related expenses, such as regular maintenance and vehicle insurance. Hiring a driver can add an extra cost of USD 474 to USD 1,390 per month, depending on their experience.

6. Daycare and Babysitting Services

For families with toddlers and preschoolers, private daycare centres are available, costing USD 266 to USD 445 per month, depending on the hours of care required.

Many international families prefer hiring household helpers who can include childcare in their duties. Alternatively, full-time nannies are available, with annual salaries ranging from USD 800 to USD 3,500, depending on their experience, qualifications, working hours, responsibilities, the number of children cared for and the family’s location.

Additionally, occasional babysitting services are available at USD 15 to USD 25 per hour.

For comparison, hiring a nanny/housekeeper in some European countries, such as the Czech Republic, could cost up to USD 3,150 per month.

7. Education Costs

Expat children can attend international schools or higher education institutions in Thailand. While this can be a significant expense, it’s often more affordable than equivalent schools in Europe or other Asian countries such as Singapore.

Tuition fees vary based on the type and prestige of the school. For example, tuition in primary classes at an international school ranges from USD 1,985 to USD 23,850 per semester, while middle school tuition costs between USD 2,400 and USD 26,780 per semester.

Thai universities are generally more affordable than those in other parts of Asia, Europe or the US. For instance, a bachelor’s degree at the prestigious Chulalongkorn University costs USD 2,250 to USD 3,140 per semester, depending on the programme. Master’s programmes range from USD 2,600 to USD 4,000 per semester.

8. Active Leisure and Relaxation

Thailand offers an extensive range of recreational facilities and activities. Visitors can enjoy cinemas, concert halls, museums, climbing gyms, sports centres and swimming pools.

Here are some prices for popular activities:

  • A movie ticket (for an international film): USD 4–USD 10
  • Monthly gym membership: USD 26–USD 88
  • Tennis court rental: USD 4–USD 14 per hour
  • 18-hole golf course access: USD 29–USD 177

Children won’t be bored either. Pattaya and Phuket boast fantastic parks and water parks. A child’s water park ticket costs between USD 26 to USD 32, while an adult ticket ranges from USD 44 to USD 47. Tickets for a local Disneyland-like park in Bangkok are priced at USD 17 for children and USD 23 for adults when purchased online.

For comparison, a ticket for Disneyland Paris starts at USD 65.

9. Excursions

Tourists often enjoy excursions, which include visits to nature reserves, temples and various farms.

Ticket prices for tourist attractions vary. For example, admission to the Grand Palace in Bangkok ranges from USD 14 to USD 29. Tickets for some temples or national parks start at USD 3–USD 6, depending on the venue’s popularity.

A tour to Emerald Island (Ko Kham) costs USD 68, including jungle wildlife observation, beach relaxation and snorkelling among coral reefs.

Visiting a crocodile farm costs USD 8 for adults and USD 6 for children.

10. Beaches

All mainland and island beaches in Thailand are public, allowing you to relax on your mat anywhere you like. However, if you prefer renting a sunbed with an umbrella, it will cost around USD 3.

On the beach, you can purchase a fresh, thirst-quenching coconut for USD 2 or USD 1 to USD 1.5 just across the road. A 0.5-litre bottle of water is priced at USD 0.5.

You can also rent a jet ski on the beach, costing USD 44 for 30 minutes. Parasailing over the sea costs a similar amount. A banana boat ride is USD 20 for adults and USD 14 for children.

15 Facts about prices for goods and services in Thailand

11. Wellness Services

Thailand’s most famous and globally renowned health service is Thai massage.

An hour-long session on the beach costs USD 11 to USD 14, about the same as in standard salons, while high-end establishments charge around USD 30.

Other wellness services, such as spa treatments or full-day packages, average USD 58.

12. Clothing Prices

Thailand is a great place to find affordable clothing from lesser-known brands, often sold at markets like Chatuchak or in shopping centres such as MBK Centre.

Popular international brands like Zara, H&M and Nike are also available. Luxury shopping malls such as Emporium and CentralWorld offer a wide selection of local and international designer items, including high-end brands like Jim Thompson and Louis Vuitton.

Designer clothes generally cost slightly more than in Europe or the US due to higher import taxes and shipping expenses. Below are some sample prices for everyday clothing:

  • A pair of Levi’s jeans: USD 14–USD 87
  • A summer dress from Zara or H&M: USD 14–USD 73
  • Nike sneakers: USD 44–USD 140

13. Renting in Thailand

If you’re planning a trip to this Southeast Asian kingdom, it’s advisable to explore rental prices for apartments and villas in Thailand in advance. Renting an independent property can be more affordable than opting for an all-inclusive hotel package and it offers the flexibility to stay in various locations.

For example, a cosy studio apartment with a pool in Lampang, one of the Kingdom’s ancient cities, can be rented for just USD 147 per month. Two-bedroom apartments in Thailand’s desirable city areas or on popular islands like Phuket typically cost between  USD 1,000 to USD 1,760 per month.

For comparison, renting a 2-bedroom apartment in central areas of some European cities could cost anywhere between USD 550 to USD 3,000 monthly.

14. Utility Costs

Utilities here are generally cheaper than in many other countries, but it’s essential to monitor your bills as costs can rise with inflation.

Basic utility expenses depend on the location, size of the property and household composition. On average, monthly costs are:

  • Electricity: USD 14–USD 118 (approximately USD 0.11 per kWh)
  • Gas: USD 8–USD 14 per liquefied gas cylinder
  • Water: USD 2–USD 6

It’s worth noting that landlords of apartment buildings may charge higher rates for electricity and water, which can significantly impact monthly bills, especially with the constant use of air conditioning, a necessity in Thailand’s climate.

15. Real Estate Costs

Thailand has become a popular destination for digital nomads and expatriates worldwide. The region attracts visitors with its mild climate, stunning landscapes, abundant fresh fruits and seafood, friendly locals and affordable living costs. It’s no surprise that many people choose this country for seasonal stays or long-term living and consider purchasing property in Thailand.

The country offers a wide range of housing options, from budget condominiums to luxurious penthouses. The average cost per square metre is around USD 1,600. This means you can find a furnished apartment in a good area with well-developed infrastructure for approximately USD 100,000. In less touristy locations, away from mass entertainment spots, apartments can be found for as low as USD 43,000.

For comparison, the cost per square metre in some urban areas of other countries can range from USD 3,220 to USD 5,100.

Conclusion

Overall, prices in Thailand, like in any other country, vary depending on the location. Properties and services closer to beaches and popular tourist destinations are generally more expensive, while areas primarily inhabited by locals tend to be more affordable.

Personal needs, lifestyle and preferences also play a significant role. Some can comfortably live on USD 500, while others may find USD 2,000 insufficient.

In any case, understanding the cost of living in the region will help you manage your budget effectively.

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