What are the best visa options for spending 6 months in Thailand as an expat?

You can also look longer term and secure a 5 year OX visa. Yes you need to prove cash and you have a year to open a bank account and transfer money over

I am a US citizen and Thai wife of 35 years.

I spend November through the end of April in Thailand.

The easiest way is what I am currently doing… apply for a tourist e-visa from your home country. That will give you 60 days. At the end of 60, go to your local immigration office to get a 30 day extension. On day 90 cross over the nearest border (no need to fly) and return right away to get a 30 day visa exemption. That is a 30 day visa upon arrival. At the end of the 30, back to the immigration office for a 30 day extension. So now we are on day 150. On day 150, cross the border again and return right away and get a 30 day visa exemption. Fly home on day 180.

Land borders are fine.

Best choices would be multi entry tourist visa up to 9 months in Total.

Or if you are of age a OA retirement visa which only requires money in your home country bank. You would get two years out of that but need purchase insurance (which aint a bad thing) i got pin through my thumb from a thing at railey and insurance took care of that

What age are you and do you have Thai family (wife or child)?

Retirement visa