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Answered5 months ago

Is Thailand still an affordable destination for expats?

Dave **********
asked May 19, 2026
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Frustrated with all the talk about Thailand 🇹🇭 is not cheap 😒 anymore. It depends on YOU.
Answer summary
The affordability of living in Thailand for expats is a nuanced topic, heavily dependent on personal lifestyle choices and spending habits. Many expats argue that while inflation has increased prices in some tourist-heavy areas, Thailand can still offer a relatively affordable lifestyle, especially if one opts for local dining and accommodations. Various comments suggest that food can still be very cheap if sourced from local markets or eateries away from tourist traps, with typical meals costing around 50-80 baht. However, those seeking to live in luxury or in expat-favored areas may face significantly higher costs. Ultimately, the definition of 'cheap' varies amongst individuals based on their income, background, and expectations.
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Daniele *****
Daniele *****
You can't live on haircuts and one egg. Besides, you have about 10 hairs left, a new electric clipper is 200 baht and will keep you sorted for long time.
Rok ********
Rok ********
Thailand is between 15,000 and 150,000 a month …. Is my usual answer.
Wayne ********
Wayne ********
Just got back from lunch, great little restaurant, The Lucky Tree Cafe, a hidden gem you might say, I had a spicy seafood noodles, Tom yum like & Aee had tasty pork belly strips on rice, with an egg & 2 Avocado Smoothies, 190 baht. are we paying to much, I don’t think so
Alisa ********
Alisa ********
A dollar.
Robert **********
Robert **********
I agree. I even feel guilty with my euro in Thailand... Mind you, I have to save and work extra for about 7 months in the Netherlands so I can be in Thailand in the Winter... But there I have a good time :-)

I never haggle, and give tips always...

25 baht for 12 bottles of water (600ml). Thailand expensive? Come on...
John *******
John *******
yes its ok if you eat in thai joints but not really in westernised places.i like a mix of both so yeah you can budget

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