Baht is a small % fee and compensation for not needing to look for and go to a physical exchange bureau. Additionally, being “abroad” most of the year i asume i do not have really have a choice; carrying cash around is a huge risk and the 220 baht fer is a small fee to pay instead.
Does it need to be in Bangkok. Personally i am exploring a bit out, on the beach as air quality is very important to me … Sriracha seems to have some lovely condos with view of the ocean …
Mexico started doing the same where for decades people liver on tourist visas - i got myself a residency there. I am in Thailand at the moment and would not rely on tourist VOAs. Not as easy as Mexico but surely you must be able to find a way for better visa situation.