What it actually costs to live in Thailand in 2026, broken down by city and lifestyle, including the recurring visa and compliance costs that most guides leave out.
As a rough guide, a comfortable single expat budgets meaningfully less in Chiang Mai than in central Bangkok, and a family with international schooling sits in a different bracket entirely. The biggest swing factors are rent, schooling and healthcare, not daily spending.
We tailor a realistic budget to your city, family size and lifestyle rather than quoting a single misleading number.
Rent is the largest line for most people. Central Bangkok condos command a premium; Chiang Mai and the suburbs are markedly cheaper; island villas vary with season and location. A serviced apartment for your first weeks costs more per night but saves you from a bad year-long lease.
Beyond rent and daily life, budget for health insurance, the annual visa extension, and the time cost of the 90-day report and TM30. For families, international school fees dwarf everything else.
It can be, especially outside central Bangkok, but a Western lifestyle with international schooling and private healthcare is not cheap. We build you a realistic budget rather than a brochure figure.
It ranges widely by area and building. Central, modern condos cost considerably more than suburban or older units. We shortlist options to your budget and negotiate on your behalf.
Health insurance, the annual visa extension, and the time and fees around the 90-day report and TM30. Families should budget international school fees as the dominant cost.
Tell us your city, family size and lifestyle, and we will map a real monthly budget and the admin that comes with it.
Saibai & Co. organises, prepares and accompanies. We are not a law firm, tax advisor or licensed immigration lawyer, and we do not provide legal advice. Visa and immigration work is facilitation and document support. Regulated services such as tax filing, insurance and licensed tour guiding are delivered through licensed Thai partners. Government and official fees are passed through at cost. Operated by a Thailand-registered company.