Suggest you look at Malaysia vs Thailand. I believe it's more welcoming for someone in your shoes. Most Americans are clueless about Malaysia, but, for one thing, it's the tech capital of SE Asia. Very advanced well developed country. Kuala Lumpur and Georgetown Penang are both fantastic options, just as low cost, actually I think lower than BKK.
Lots of westerners want to move to Thailand or Vietnam. Then they find out it's not really possible without jumping through hoops they'd prefer not to. Sorry.