This is Part 4 of the “Foundationology of Migrationology” series.
My apartment in Bangkok, Thailand
I’m going to be honest, I don’t live in a luxurious apartment nor do I drive a Mercedes (or drive anything other than my laptop).
I do however live in a safe and quiet neighborhood, enjoy quite speedy internet (most of the time), and dine on world class Thai street food – everyday!
I live in an a studio single bedroom apartment that’s shared among a few in-and-out permanent nomads. It’s more of an open studio room with pads, a place for any of us to crash for the night.
Our apartment complex is brand new, it is clean, in a safe neighborhood on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand.
We are blessed with a huge fresh food market about 5 minutes away and an overwhelming supply of Thai street food that never gets boring.
Here’s my budget cost of living in Bangkok for a month:
I normally pay half the rent – we split these monthly expenses. We have NO hot water and NO kitchen, just a single room, a bedroom, bathroom and a small balcony.
Balcony in Bangkok
- Studio Apartment Rent – $108 (3300 THB)
- Internet – $13.10 (400 THB)
- Water – $2.95 (90 THB)
- Electricity – $6.88 (210 THB)
Total Apartment = $131.36 (4000 THB) split by 2 = $65.53 each
- Transportation – $29.57 (903 THB)
- Food – $125.66 (3837 THB)
- Mobile Phone – $13.09 (400 THB)
- Entertainment (Going out) – $23.25 (710 THB)
- Misc – $27.84 (850 THB)
Total Everything Else = $219.53 (6700 THB)
Grand Total = $285.06
(2000 + 6700 = 8700 THB)
1. Internet (400 THB) – $13.10
I pay for the internet by computer, the price is 200 THB per computer per month. It’s apparently an 8 mb connection, but upload speeds are closer to an 1/8 of this. I’m not complaining, for everything I need to do, it’s quite sufficient.
2. Water (90 THB) – $2.95
My apartment has NO hot water. I do take showers, flush the toilet and wash a few dishes here and there. Our apartment is on the 5th floor and the water pressure isn’t too strong (could this be a water saving blessing?).
3. Electricity (210 THB) – $6.88
I’ve never used the air-condition, and my body has adapted to the tropical humid degrees in Bangkok. There’s a fluorescent light in the main room and a small bulb in the bathroom. My computer and a pair of speakers are connected most of the time. I also power a water heater for coffee and two small fans.
4. Transportation (903 THB) – $29.57
My apartment is not located in the center of Bangkok, but it’s only about 10 km away. I don’t live directly on the convenient inner city train links (BTS or MRT), but I live about a 5 minute walk from a bustling major street with cheap buses that flow past constantly and very frequently. I can be to the center of Bangkok in 30 minutes with no traffic.
Buses in Bangkok cost 6.50 THB at the lowest, up to around 20 THB for a ride on buses that take the expressway and use air-con. An average bus costs me 8 THB, old clankers with character and open windows.
Typical all-out dinner in Bangkok
Fruit in Bangkok
5. Food (3837 THB) – $125.66
I guess from my budget, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to figure out what my passion and priority is; I love to eat. Thai street food is what I dine on 9 times out of 10, but there are the occasions when I make involuntary culinary purchases that comprise of either international cuisine or some kind of classy dining.
For breakfast I eat a selection of tropical fruits and usually supplement them with some oatmeal (don’t like it too much, but it’s cheap, healthy and filling). I then go into feasting mode, often dining on som tam (green papaya salad) and sticky rice for lunch and branching into an extensive street food smorgasbord for dinner. I try not to eat an entire roasted fish by myself every evening, but I do almost every other night. Check out how much food you could eat for $10 in Bangkok!
I do buy water, fill up bottles of filtered water for 1 THB / liter. Usually costs me less than 100 THB per month.
So even though food is cheap, it happens to be my biggest cost of living in Bangkok.
6. Mobile Phone (400 THB) – $13.09
I buy scratch cards to load money onto my mobile phone. I do talk on the phone a fair amount (with my girlfriend), but calls made to the same mobile phone supplier at night are very cheap (I think it’s less than 1 THB / minute).
7. Entertainment (710 THB) – $23.25
My girlfriend is not a big party goer or drinker, and I guess one could say that that is a great thing for my budget. I do go out to meet friends at night on occasion (perhaps once per week), but I don’t go crazy. I tend to just hang out with friends, relax, and chill out.
My entertainment budget is low due to the fact that I consider food as my premiere form of entertainment. I guess one could say that I would prefer to drop $3 on a massive stomach pleasing lavish meal (including an entire grilled fish) than a single bottle of beer.
8. Miscellaneous (850 THB) – $27.84
Soap, Tylenol, toothpaste, a photocopy – I don’t really know, but there are always a few unexpected random things that need to be purchased and it can fluctuate differently every month.
Do I live a deprived life?
On the opposite spectrum of deprived, I consider myself very well-off. I have yet to be dirty, lose sleep, or even come close to being denied of food.
Here are a few random things I do without breaking the budget:
- visit a local floating market
- meet fellow bloggers
- hang out with friends
- walk around local Thai markets
- go on a trip with a local Thai family for the Songkran festival
- discover things like Bangkok’s best fruit shake
- devour Bangkok street food
This budget cost of living in Bangkok, Thailand, is just a taste of living possibilities. I understand that we all have differing priorities, lifestyle comforts, wants and needs – but if you really want to make something happen, it’s feasible.
We each have our own levels of comfort and it doesn’t need to be compared to others.
No matter what anyone else says, I know I’m living like a VIP for $285.06 per month.
I’d love to hear your questions or comments below.
————————————————————————————————————————————————-
This is Part 4 of the Foundationology of Migrationology series.
Don’t miss the next article (2 August 2011): Migrationology: Living With Future Intentions
Enter your e-mail below to sign up for my (FREE) monthly newsletter to get more long term travel tips and advice on how to live a life to pursue your passions.
Stay tuned for the next articles in the series!
- 5 July 2011: How Failing the SAT Helped Me Make Enough Money to Travel the World
- 12 July 2011: 7 Simple (but Effective) Strategies to Save Money to Travel
- 19 July 2011: Migrationology: The Sustainable Way to Travel Long-Term
- 26 July 2011: How To Live Like a VIP in Bangkok for $285.06 Per Month
- 2 August 2011: Migrationology: Living With Future Intentions
If you are interested in Bangkok, get a copy of my ultimate guide to Bangkok.
It looks great, especially for someone who is out and about most of the time. What an amazing budget! Thanks for the inside peek!
Thanks Paulo!
His apt might seem “sparse” with verry little…but if your yung & you can travel…do it! All the videos & pictures, memories! Sure some seatle down in a 9-5 job in a big house tied down to your House ,positions, job ,family ,life, kids…but you can do alllll that “later”
Being “young” only lasts so long! Your health! Time! Sooner or later it all catches up to you!
to save 8 grande & leave off on a world travel….& STILl be traveling!
Amazing! it’s a blessing to “see” all the videos you made! You inspire so many!
many people say “I’ll go travel once this or that”… Play the wating game!
I’m hopping your fiancé likes traveling to?! I wish you the best ! Many more far far travels!
Keep up your smiling! Your Enthusiasm! your blessed & have blessed the youtube Community! Thanks!
Hey Jimmy, once again, thanks a lot. I appreciate your support and part of my blog is just to show the possibilities of travel. Thanks for watching and reading!
I recently wrote a book about living the cheap life in Thailand, and my monthly budget is around 20,000 baht which is around $600 US. But that includes my CrossFit membership, doing Muay Thai once in a while and eating a Paleo Diet.
Plus I live in the room by myself and don’t share so rent is double. I can see it $285.06 being possible though! Keep up the good write ups.
Hey Johnny, thanks a lot for stopping by, and glad you can backup this advice as well – it really is possible. And even with some added things like Muay Thai and CrossFit, it’s a great deal to live in Bangkok!
It’s awesome to see your breakdown like this. I don’t know if I could live without frequent hot showers (they’re my guilty pleasure), but other than that I wouldn’t mind living like a VIP either.
Christy @ Technosyncratic recently posted..San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
Thanks Christy. Sometimes I know a hot shower would really be nice, but when I start dreaming, I just jump in the shower and get it over with – I can also go to a friend’s house with warm water!
I must admit that I am now of an age and comfort level in life where I do not need to deny myself some pleasure, but I admire your honesty in detailing what life can be like in Southeast Asia – especially a cosmopolitan city s/a Bangkok for less money than a hostel in the USA. Having recently returned from SE Asia (I am a travel writer) and having traveled extensively on a budget – staying in hostels, apartments and budget hotels at my “advanced” age – you are correct! Travel, adventure, decent living standards and good food can be had in many areas of the globe without credit cards. Good for you!!! (PS: I too would miss a hot shower – well maybe a “warm” shower considering Bangkok’s humidity, but A/C at night ….to sleep….?)
Thanks for the comment Marc!
I do remember when I first arrived in Bangkok, trying to sleep with no AC and waking up all sweaty. Now I think my body has really adjusted to the temperature, I don’t ever wake up hot or sweaty at night anymore – I normally even need a sheet in Bangkok! Some parts of Bangkok in the central areas can be quite expensive, but if you just get off the normal Bangkok trail you can immediately locate much cheaper options for almost everything. Thanks for reassuring your expertise on the budget!
Oh Mark stop tempting me to go over there!
ayngelina recently posted..Into the wild
Come through! We have a lot of porky eating to do!!!
Great details, Mark! I’m sure many of your readers are going to be checking airfares to Bangkok right now.
I wish I knew how cheap it could be to live in Bangkok when I was single. Now I have a family, I need more rooms so I can shut the door and have a bit of quiet time. I don’t think that would cost so much more, though.
Thanks!
Yah, for a little more you could definitely get a bigger place in Bangkok to accommodate a family. In Bangkok, as soon as you get off the main routes and step into the more “local” zone, the cost of living goes way down. I’m trying to save as much money as I can now, so I can start a family too eventually!!
This is something I’ve been thinking about for a while. How do you get started?
Hey Jug, thanks for stopping by.
While I was in university, traveling and living overseas was my goal. I saved for the years that I was in university by selling things on e-bay and by working a full time job (check this article: http://migrationology.com/2011/07/how-failing-the-sat-helped-me-make-enough-money-to-travel-the-world/).
You don’t need a lot of money to get started – I had a bout $8000 to my name when I left from the states 3 years ago, but you could definitely do it on less. The first step that I did was just buy my plane ticket and then find small ways to keep going and keep living.
Check out the rest of the articles in this series of posts, and I hope you can get some more tips. I will also be publishing more articles with regards to getting started traveling.
Good luck with everything Jug and feel free to ask me more questions!
Thanks for sharing your breakdown! It’s interesting to see it all lain out.
Although you’re right that you can’t really compare as everyone has different preferences and standards, I must admit I was curious how yours was so much lower than mine in Saigon! I’m pretty similar with some choices – taking the bus, not drinking a lot, preferring street food but my location priorities are different. I choose to pay a premium for living in the centre but for me that offsets what I’d pay for (in both time and money) getting home once the buses stop at 8pm.
Ruth recently posted..Beginning to pick up local customs
Cool, thanks for sharing Ruth!
Awesome that you are living in Saigon now. I’ve visited Hanoi but never been to Saigon – must be an exciting place. Do you enjoy living there?
Yes, totally right though, we all have our individual preferences and we definitely need to do what is most comfortable and what we can personally handle. Convenience, safety, or other variables should also be contributing factors that make up our lifestyle/living conditions!
Saigon is very different to Hanoi. I love both cities but Saigon is a bit more cosmopolitan (though a little less cultured) so it’s a fun place to live. Its reputation as a foodie city seems to be mostly about the diverse restaurants, though that’s not definitive as I’m still exploring!
Ruth recently posted..Beginning to pick up local customs
Keep exploring and keep checking out those restaurants! Hope you continue to enjoy your time in Saigon!
Have to love the prices in Southeast Asia! As a budget traveler Mark, kudos to you for this one!
Jeremy Branham recently posted..Where in the world am I?
No problem, thanks for taking a look Jeremy!
Great break down Mark! I guess VIP is all perspective on what you want and how you want to live. Its the things that matter to you the most like spending money on a good meal verses a bottle of beer. So of the four people you and your girlfriend are two of them of is it you and 3 other nomads?
Thanks Kirk!
Exactly, living like a VIP is one’s personal choice, attitude and being comfortable with the level of comfort. In my apartment, it’s just myself and one other buddy of mine who teaches English full-time. My girlfriend lives in a separate apartment!
This breakdown is great and I’m sure will inspire more than a few people to join you! I too am at the age where I need a little more comfort but that does seem to be a reasonable option too.
Debbie Beardsley @ European Travelista recently posted..Free in Salzburg means . . .
Thanks Debbie,
Even living with a a few more comforts in Bangkok is still very reasonable – I definitely understand!
Wow! You are definitely living the good life. Comparing this to my budget in Buenos Aires makes me want to cry a little.
The Travel Chica recently posted..My New Apartment: Frisky Kitties & Cold Trips to the Bathroom
It’s alright Stephanie!!
I lived in Buenos Aires for about 3 months a few years ago and I think I paid about $250 USD per month for a room in a shared house. Even though your budget might be a bit higher, I know you are creating incredible lasting experiences there!
I had such a terrible time last summer because it was SO HOT! I was always sweating and felt like I had trouble breathing. But this summer I don’t think it’s so hot and I don’t sweat much at all. I never thought it would happen, but I guess I’ve adjusted!
Laura recently posted..Taiwanimania: Part 2
That’s so cool to hear that Laura! It’s amazing how one’s body really does adjust to a climate after some time.
I don’t even notice the heat or sweat of Bangkok at all anymore!
Thinking of living in South East Asia for a few months (haven’t decided where yet), so very useful post this. USD 285 pr month – twice or three times that with a child, perhaps? But even so… incredible!
Sophie | Sophie’s World recently posted..Flirting with Fate in the Faroe Islands
Great to hear that Sophie!
Yah, you can definitely get an upgraded nicer apartment for $200 – $300 in Bangkok / month, and with a child there might be a few more miscellaneous costs. I think 3 times the budget I’m on might be a reasonable guess. Hope to meet you someday in this part of the world!
Do you know Got Passport? They are great friends of mine and recently published an article about a family of 3 living in Chiang Mai: http://www.gotpassport.org/2011/07/09/the-cost-of-living-in-chiang-mai-for-our-family-of-three/
Mark, this is highly informative post. I think some of the key components of your tips are living on the outskirts & giving up a few amenities. Thai street food is probably the best I’ve ever had in Asia & why would ANYBODY ever need to have a hot water shower in Thailand
I’m guessing it’s probably cheaper to eat out than to cook at home (it is in Korea) which obviously negates the needs for a kitchen. Furthermore, the budget you’ve given (as low as it is) would be more than what an average Thai person spends meaning you’re living quite well relative to others for under $300 a month.
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I agree Samuel, I think Bangkok in particular has a mix of the best food in the world. Not only can one find Thai food from every region of the country, there’s also loads of international dining options too. Yup, just like Korea, it’s cheaper to eat out here than to buy food to cook (that is unless cooking for 10 people or something like that…).
Your’re right, I think I’ve heard that an average Thai salary with a decent job is around $300 / month, and many of them have a lot more responsibility than I do at the moment (parents, kids, family etc.). It does really go to show that no matter how we live, we should always be grateful for what we do have, and not dwell on what we don’t have…
It seems the more and more I read about Thailand the more and more I want to visit. The loveable family from Got Passport live in Chiang Mai and with what you are saying about Bangkok I really want to visit there. Which may just happen if we follow through with backpacking through Asia after we hit up South America.
Cornelius Aesop recently posted..New Brew Tuesday: Fuller’s Organic Honey Dew
Yes Cornelius, just a few weeks ago I read the budget guide from Got Passport in Chiang Mai – it was great. And they are an entire family living at a very decent budget. I think apartment rentals in Chiang Mai are actually lower on a whole than in Bangkok. Would be great if you stopped by Asia after traveling to South America!
This is really interesting. When it comes to maths I am very poor and you have calculated everything so well. The apartment looks very clean and the Street food looks really Yummy!
Sailor recently posted..What if the Cruise Ship Leaves Without You?
Thanks Sailor!
I really like the apartment I’m staying in right now. It’s simple, just a clean floor and a few things. The street food is delicious!
Thanks for this Mark, I will be coming to Bangkok for a month in October to study Thai language and have surfed the net looking for where to get an apartment for a month. The further out is much cheaper.
Right about that Ron. If you get anywhere off the main train transport line, apartments get much cheaper. The Bangkok bus system is very good so it’s not a problem to be a few kilometers from any train station. Good luck with the search and that’s awesome that you are coming to Bangkok soon!
Appreciate you sharing this Mark. I think one of my questions would be are you able to save enough to travel outside Thailand? Second, do you have room for couchsurfers?
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No problem Grace – glad to share it!
At moment, I’m not really able to make enough money to really to travel – though I still travel with money that I made and saved up from teaching a year in English and from my previous job. I’m hoping that in the future I’ll be able to make enough to travel without using the previous savings. One of the downsides about living in a small 1 room apartments with already 2 and sometimes 3 guys is it’s quite crammed and there’s not really space to comfortably any other surfers. I’d love to if I had a bigger place and was a little more organized.
Hi Mark,
Thanks for this detailed break-down. I was only in Bangkok for a short period on my current trip, but I did spend about two months in Chiang Mai. I think on my next long(er)-term visit I’m going to try getting renting an apartment instead of staying in guesthouses.
The idea of living on less than $300 sounds depressing if you were in North America, but it just goes to show you can get a lot out of your money in other parts of the world while living and eating well!
- Lily
Lily Leung recently posted..Why I Love Eurail.com
Right about that Lily! For my personal style of living, my purchasing power brings a lot more value being in Asia than most other places in the world. I think the cost for living in Chiang Mai is a bit less than even living in Bangkok. If you choose to remain in a place for a month or longer it really would be worth it to rent a place instead of staying in a guest house!
Slightly misleading title
I found that a decent expat experience can be had for about $600 in Ho Chi Minh City: http://www.saigonist.com/content/cost-living-vietnam-its-really-cheap
If one were to live on the outskirts, eat only street food (which is often over-glorified), and not own a motorized vehicle, you could certainly live for half that. I mean people in Vietnam live on much less, but they’d hardly call themselves VIP!
Tomo in Saigon recently posted..Barcamp Saigon Summer 2011 Parting Thoughts
Hi Tomo, thanks for stopping by.
It was great to read your article about the cost of living in Saigon – I think it’s a bit cheaper to live there than in Bangkok. As for VIP status, I’ve got everything I need and I live in a safe neighborhood and dine on awesome Thai food!
Hi Mark
Dropping by from dropout diaries when I read about the excellent interview! Was really interested to know more about your site and here I am. Anyway, first and foremost… just got to say that I really do have alot of respect for you for taking the less than trodden path to travel to the other side of the world, work on freelance projects, making do with lesser pay but living the life that you’ve been dreaming of all along. That, itself, takes A LOT of courage and I cannot be more impressed by your courage to do so. Likewise, I have a lifelong dream to spend a year to travel around the world… I just started working about 2yrs back – in a job that i dread going to, especially with a new boss that works like he’s ruling north korea (lol) – and cannot wait to leave but at least same time, i do know that i will probably stick to a practical choice of finding another stable and well-paying job than to travel (yet). Nonetheless, it inspires me to read about real life stories from people like yourself and it encourages to take a step to the path i want.
On a lighter note, I’m from Singapore and Thailand is a fav country amongst many of us. Like you, i LOVE thai food (Esp tom yum! cannot resist it) so it’s awesome that you have a thai food guide.
keep it going and i look forward to reading more awesome entries from u!
Hey Steph,
First of all, thanks so much for checking out my site and for taking the time to write a comment – I really appreciate it. Cool that you found me through Dropout Diaries, I really like their blog and story.
It’s great to hear that you have set a goal for the future (to travel the world) and you are keeping that goal fresh on your mind at all times – that means that despite the difficulties, or working to save up at a job that’s not your favorite, you WILL accomplish your goal eventually and reach your dreams. Sorry to hear about you boss, but keep persevering. You can do it for sure Steph!
Awesome to hear that you are from Singapore and enjoy eating Thai food too. I’m with you and tom yum soup – I crave to eat it almost every day here in Bangkok!
Wow now that’s cheap. I live in Guatemala and just my internet is $100 a month! And I live in a 3rd world country
Marina K. Villatoro recently posted..Picture This! Macaw’s in the Rain Forest Wild
Thanks for the comment Marina!
Yah, the cost of living is one of a number of reasons why I’ve remained in Asia for so long. That is a little pricey for internet, but I’m sure that you are having an incredible time living in Guatemala!
This a very helpful post for those dying to get out and live in a different country. Bangkok, Thailand would be one of my preferred places to resettle.
Traveling Ted recently posted..Adventure travel to Quetico Provincial Park is a family affair
Great Ted! Bangkok or anywhere in Thailand offers a relatively low cost of living and standards are still quite high. For myself, the food is luxurious and there’s no way I could eat the way I do without being in Thailand! Would be great if you wanted to resettle here!
I think what your doing is fantastic. I’ve been coming to Thailand since 2002, right now I’m up in Chiang Mai, and I know how cheap it is to live here. Living with other people in a bachelor apartment is not my thing. Hey, but street food………it’s KING. The best and cheapest food in the country is found on the street. Enjoy Bangkok, and keep telling us about the fantastic Bangkok street food.
Nancie recently posted..Travel Photo Thursday, August 4, 2011 — Days End, Wat Bupparam Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thanks Nancie!
Great that you are living in Chiang Mai now – it’s another good place to live in Thailand, in many ways much more relaxing and laid back than Bangkok. The bachelor apartment definitely is not for everyone, and things will surely change for myself as well – so I’m taking advantage now before things do transition! I’m not sure if I’ve been anywhere that can beat Thai street food when comparing all variables like price, quality, cleanliness etc. Thanks for the comment!
Mark, this is an awesome post. We are headed to Bangkok in October, and I can’t wait to get back to eating and doing what I want and not feeling insanely taken advantage of. We were in Central America, basically living like kings, for 6 months, and now, after 3 months in Europe and so far almost two months in Canada, we have been shocked at the costs and holding back on everything we enjoy (food) for things like gas and sales tax. Hopefully we can met up when we get over there – it’s our first time in Asia!
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Thanks!
After living in Asia for almost 3 years now, I’m a little scared of leaving, partly because I’ll be shocked at prices in other parts of the world and partly because I still wake up everyday dreaming about what kind of Thai street food I’ll be able to eat! Great to hear that you will be coming to Asia soon, let me know and hopefully we can meet up at some point!
Hello,
Where is it you live in Asia?
Thanks,
Evan
Evan recently posted..How to Use a Squat Toilet Like a Pro
Hey Evan, I’m living in Bangkok at the moment, but I travel all around.
Congratulations – you live in Bangkok for under $300 a month – but I think you have a better life than living in come big western city with a big stressful job and a big stressful mortgage, credit card bills and a lot of boredom. I’ve lived in many different but very expensive cities on very expensive budgets since I can afford it but I am not happy, even if I don’t need to work in these western cities fact is everyone is stressed out, nasty, sad and miserable in the western world….and all of it comes down to one thing – MONEY. They make a lot of money compared to many others but they also spend more than they make because cost of living in western cities is high, and the cost of boredom is even higher. Currently I live in Paris on a budget of $7000 a month…yes you heard that right seven thousand dollars a month and I still live like shit in a small 1 bedroom apartment in the center of Paris, with no car and food, entertainment etc is all very expensive here….think about $15 for a movie ticket…..$40 to take a taxi anywhere and back home, and even decent street food can cost upto $30 a day. Just groceries in Paris are ridiculously expensive….and what about all the culture here….well getting into any museum in Paris is a nightmare…long queues of tourists everywhere….overpriced tickets costing 30-40-50 bucks…and still a very unpleasant crowded experience…I find nothing great about it….Europe is dirtier than Asia because a filthy 1 star hotel room in most european cities costs $100…and a 5 star hotel room in Asia costs the same…just because it’s a 1 star hotel in Europe means nothing…they are all full of bed bugs and filth everywhere. Cost of decent travelling in Europe is $2000 a week…and that’s just decent…not luxurious at all.
There is such a false sense of security in the west….how are any of these countries secure with such failing economies, lazy population, and a total lack of any energy or enthusiasm….Parisians well most Europeans I know are the most depressed, mentally unstable and messed up sad people in the world. Americans are a bit happier but maybe that’s cuz of all the medication they take in USA….
I think I should move to Bangkok….can I REALLY live like a king on $3000 a month? And yes I do want to drive a mercedes….preferably an SL classe!!!
Wow, thank you very much for all your thoughts about this. You stated that right, it all comes down to money, and no matter how much one makes, one also finds a way to spend it all, making that money not so much after all. The VIP I talked about in this article is that it doesn’t take money to be happy, special, or successful.
For $3000 per month in Bangkok you can live EXTREMELY well. Very nice condo or house, eat anything you want and do just about anything you want. I’m not sure about the Mercedes though, I do know there are hefty automobile taxes in Thailand.
Thanks for checking out this article, I wish you all the best in Paris and let me know if you have any other questions!
-Mark
this is on my bucket list – eat until I’m stuffed at the food carts!! I can’t believe you can live in bangkok for less than $300!!
jenjenk recently posted..Paris: Le Cordon Bleu Experience
Awesome Jen – you can eat street food until stuffed everyday in Bangkok!
wow, this is pretty amazing Mark! When i’m tired of traveling, i live in Bangkok (been here 8 months now) but compared to your 9000 a month budget i feel like a flash packer! I would struggle to spend less than 30,000 ($1k) minimum in Bangkok, but need 50k ($1600) to have a cool lifestyle.
Fair play, i guess laying off the booze helps alot!! :S
johnny recently posted..Backpacking in Kanchanaburi
Thanks Johnny!
Yah, Bangkok is a great city because it’s possible to live on a range of budgets. The central area of town really can get to be quite expensive, just doing normal things. I know that when I head into town I immediately start spending more, but living on the outskirts of town it’s really easy to get by on less (just like in rural areas of Thailand). Booze can really add up too!
Hi Mark,
I write with such envy, not that I have a less comfort apartment, but you are living a life I couldn’t get myself to do it! Thai food is my favourite food, Thai people is the nicest people, Thailand is my favourite country to travel.
You are indeed living a dream.
Thanks a lot for the comment Fui, and glad to hear that you also enjoy Thailand. I do have to agree that it’s a great country to live in, and Thai food is amazing!
Sounds good. But as I am about a billion years older than you, I’d be interested to know how much a slightly less spartan apartment would be–say, one with hot water and a few other amenities (not luxury, but something moderate). As for the street food, location etc–sounds perfect!
Nancy
50+ and on the Run recently posted..I’ve Heard of Pink Elephants
Haha, thanks Nancy!
For around the $300 – $400 / month range you can get a much nicer place in a nice apartment complex with hot water, maybe a gym and a swimming pool also! Are you planning on coming to live in Bangkok anytime soon?
Good post mate don’t think I’d want to live on that low a budget but I don’t see how it’s realistic, you never mentioned how much you pay for your Visa, no health insurance? not a good idea dude! You never go to the dentist for checkups and cleaning? You say your average meal cost in Bangkok is 42baht per mean. Eating oatmeal for breakfast and fruit yeah, but somtam and sticky rice for luck costs 30 baht leaving you 12baht not exactly VIP. Sleeping on a floor in a cheap apartment isn’t exactly VIP either. I like the idea of this article but it’s not exactly truthful.
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Hey Chris, thanks for the comment!
I didn’t mention the cost of a visa or the cost of my health insurance, but this article is meant to just cover the cost of how I live in Bangkok – when I’m here (this is not my entire living budget per month – and of course every month is unique). For visa I get a 2 month double entry visa (and up until a few months ago Thai visas were free). Now, yes, I pay 2000 THB for a double entry 2 month visa – so you add an extra 500 THB ($15) per month. As for health insurance – I don’t think it pertains to this article – this isn’t the all-inclusive living budget. I brush my teeth a lot and floss every night, so I haven’t been to the dentist in a while – though if I did go, it would be 1 time per 6 months or so (I think it’s about 400 THB per clean-up?). For food my budget was 3837 THB per month which evens out to around 128 THB per day – and if you live frugally and on the outskirts of Bangkok – this really possible! A Quaker oats 1 kilo tub is 101 THB at Tesco. But the article is definitely my personal opinion – sure sleeping on the floor isn’t everyone’s choice (my apartment came with a bed, but I took it out), but for myself it’s extremely comfortable and that’s the way I grew up. Definitely not everyone would feel like a VIP under these living conditions, but I wrote this article just to demonstrate the possibility! I’ve lived in Africa most my life, so if you compare my living conditions with lots of people in that continent, I really am privileged. The reason I used VIP in the title is because it’s such a relative term – what does it even mean?
Hey Mark,
First off, I think your blog is fantastic and you inspire me to travel and do the same!. You are truly living the dream travelling and enjoying what truly matters in life – experiences.
This post caught my attention in particular as I am looking to set myself up in a similar way, travelling through South America & South East Asia.
At this point my cash investment is returning US$406 per month. My goal is to increase this to US$500 per month (by the end of 2012), and also plan to set up an online income of around US$200 per month.
Although I would totally be up for living how you are, I think I would need to kick my standards up a notch (for the partner).
What living standards could I expect in Thailand with this kind of money? $6-700/month.
All the best in your travels,
Sam
Thanks a lot Sam – I really appreciate you checking out my articles!
This article definitely demonstrates the lower end of the possibility of living in Bangkok on a tight budget. With 600 – 700 USD per month you can go a couple steps up. I know you can rent a very decent condo in Bangkok with 1 bedroom, 1 living room, kitchen, maybe even a swimming pool and fitness gym for around the $300 – $400 per month range – so with 2 people that can be a pretty good deal. Food and entertainment is the other main expense. The more local you eat, the less expensive prices will be.
For 600 – 700 USD per month you can in my opinion live extremely comfortable!
Also, if you choose to stay in a place like Chiang Mai, prices are lower than in Bangkok.
Would each of you have a $600 per month budget?
Hey Mark,
Thanks for your reply – it is good to know the local knowledge.
My goal is to have around $1000 in passive income by 2017. and do a 6 month split in South America/South East Asia. However, right now I only have around $400, which is just for me. I would assume our expenses to be 1/3 more with two of us? (same price for accomm, transport, just a extra for food?)
To answer your question, yes, my partner would need to bring her own money to the table! Essentially we would have $500 each.
Cheers and merry Xmas
Sam
Hey man, just to let you know 8 megabits is about 1 megabytes download speed. So you should be able to download at 1Mbps or 1024Kbps.
Btw maybe we can meet up soon. I move to Thailand on the 7th of next month.
Hello Mark,
very inspiring …….
I have been to Thailand twice before, but very short visits,
3rd visit may be upcoming….it is getting cold in Canada…..
The life style you live I can identify with…..
my question is what other free lance jobs etc. you do other than teaching to
make some income.
Hey Sen,
Thanks for checking this article out.
Along with freelance writing, I’ve been doing some freelance video and also designing facebook pages for companies. I try to do a number of different things, but still trying to really figure things out. Also, I’ve written a number of e-book guides which I sell.
Hope this helps!
Mark
Hello Mark,
How often you do the visa run, do you go to Burma or Cambodia?
If I am in Thailand How often do I have to do this.
Any other way you can by pass the system.? Just wondering…..
PS: I am also a huge Durian fan. loved your post on all you can eat Durian.
Hey Sen,
It all depends on what kind of visa you have. I normally try to get a 2 month double entry visa which allows me to be in Thailand for 2 months and then I just need to stamp out and back in to Thailand and I’ve got another 2 months (Normally do this by just going to Cambodia for the day). Alternatively, you can also renew your visa for an extra month at the immigration office in Bangkok. I don’t normally do this, but it can be done. Hope this helps and glad to hear that you also like Durian!
Hi Mark,
this is great post, just what i was looking for. In The end of the year i plan to move to Thailand for at least three months and i was really looking for some actual figures regarding the costs Are this kind of rental rates generally common for this size of apartment and type of neighbourhood? I was hoping to live with 600 Eur and of course share apartment if i manage to find a room mate,
Nina
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Hey Nina, this guide is on the low-ish side, as I am a real saver myself, but it is a picture of what’s possible. You can easily get a 1 room studio for less than $200 per month and if you are splitting an apartment with another person you can get a great place for $300 – $400 per month. You will definitely be able to live quite well for 600 EUR per month. Let me know if you need any more suggestions for recommendation!
Thank you Mark, i will bookmark you, so when the time comes closer to the end of the year i will probably have million of questions:) Wish you nice weekend,
Nina
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Thanks Nina, you too!
“I would prefer to drop $3 on a massive stomach pleasing lavish meal (including an entire grilled fish) than a single bottle of beer.”
Such a clever attitude!!!
I’m Thai and glad to see you enjoy staying here. There’re many things in your blog that I haven’t known, especially how to live with just less than $300/month in Bangkok. So coooool!!
Hehe, thanks so much for the comment and for checking out my articles Chira! When you start comparing the food you can get for the same amount as beer, it really puts things in perspective…
Hi Mark
Its Eddie again from Karachi Pakistan
Hope youre doing okay:):)
Your emails always make me very hungry.
Would love to meet up with you and try out some street food.I normally stay at The Bedroom Boutique Hotel next to Onut BTS.
Any cheaper but just as new hotel u can recommend?
Do you live far from Onut??
Regds
Eddie
Hey Eddie,
Are you in Bangkok now? I’m actually going to be traveling soon but send me an e-mail to let me know how long you’ll be in Bangkok.
Good to hear from you.
Mark
Hi Mark,
Great filosophy you’re living! Your articles on living and eating in Bangkok have been most informative to me; thank you so much.
Kind regards,
Brian
No problem Brian, I’m glad you enjoyed this article and that it can be helpful. Thanks for reading!
Hi Mark,
I live in S.E.A. a neighboring country to Thailand and I love Bangkok . I am surprised to see that your expenses in Bangkok in less than USD300 per month. It truly inspire me and I think I am prepared to take my next step to be a traveler like you and to live in Bangkok…. You go Mark!!!!
Thanks for the message Catherine. This kind of lifestyle really is possible! Let me know how it goes and feel free to e-mail me, it would be great to hear from you.
That’s amazing Mark! I’m blown away by what all you get for so little…it’s a great way to stretch your travel experiences out.
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Thanks for taking a look at this article John. Living with a few goals call really stretch the funding!
Hah! I agree with most things, except for food allowance. Even for a Thai college student, figure on about ฿5,000.00 minimum/month, particularly since food costs have sky rocketed with the new government. Cold shower is enjoyable most of the time in Bangkok. I too was addicted with hot shower, but learned to enjoy cold invigorating shower. In winter months, you’ll be OK if shower is taken before 4pm. BTW I’m a Thai.
Haha, I’m the same way with the shower. During the winter in Bangkok I always take a shower in the midday to avoid the colder water at night. Thanks for the input!
Mark
That food looks amazing!
Do you speak Thai? I imagine the prices would be a little higher for food etc if not … Even at those prices however you are living for next to nothing!!
Duncan
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Thanks Duncan,
Yes, I can speak Thai for most practical things. For food it really depends on where you are eating, what you choose to eat and especially the location in town where you eat. Prices are really different from central areas to the outskirts as well. Thanks for checking this article out!
Hi Mark, I’m just wondering, about living in Bankok… how is it for you to live as a foreigner not speaking the local language? I lived in the Philippines for 6 months and loved that everybody spoke English there…
How do you get along with others and make friends when you don’t speak the language? Do you only make friends with other foreigners? Would love to gain some insight on how that side of your life there looks like.
Hi Jan, that’s a great idea for an entirely new article… In short, I tend to stick to lesser verbal and more body communication when I’m in a place where English is not common. In Thailand when I first arrived I just learned the very minimal basics “hello,” “how are you,” things like that and (very importantly) correct Thai communication gestures like the famous Thai greeting “wai” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_greeting). I think little cultural greetings, just a few words and of course smiles is the way to fist communicate in a different culture. From there, it all depends how long you remain in a certain place. In Bangkok, quite a few people speak some English, so it’s possible to get by. I’ll be thinking about writing more on this topic though, thank you!
i came across to your page and have a quick read, i decided to save it and to use it for reading at night before bed. you have an awesome to inspire the way how life is slow here at the no worrying. and ofc, im Thai bkk and be such a open city…u have taking it at the way it should preserved.
n.
Thank you Nikki, I really appreciate it!
hi, want to show me around in aug 21 time? i going bangkok , perhaps we can go around together , i unfamiliar with the place. =)
Hey Benjamin, thanks for the message and good to hear you’ll be coming to Bangkok. I’m not sure of my schedule yet, but we’ll have to see when the time gets closer.
Hi Mark,
I absolutely agree with you on “We each have our own levels of comfort and it doesn’t need to be compared to others”….. looks like we’re on the same page!
Great to hear we think alike Kesang! Comfort is very relative, and for myself (and you), I’m quite comfortable and thankful for food, shelter and good health.
How affordable and achievable. Great budget travelling/staying – it makes me want to pack my bags and run away to Bangkok. No cooking, exotic location, minimal belongings, freedom. Lucky I still have not unpacked my pack from travelling to Spain earlier in the year, all I have to do is chuck in a sarong, laptop and I am gone!
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Haha, thanks Jan, I’m sure you’d enjoy living in Thailand as well. Saving opens up so many different options for the future!
Mark,
First of all, let me say that if you are happy, then that’s all that really matters. I think your article is a great summary on how cheaply you can get by in a pinch in Thailand. However, I would hate if others read about the “VIP” lifestyle you mention and expect it to be anything more than subsistence living. Over the past 20 years, I’ve lived in Thailand 4 times: as a student (twice), poor worker (similar to your situation), and in a high-paying position. I’ve shared a crappy 5000 baht/month apartment, and I’ve had a 100,000 baht/month house (yes, it was a big house). Personally, I think it is all about goals (something you’ve mentioned in other articles). After living the subsistence life like you are now, I realized I could never meet my goals of having a family, traveling the world, and doing truly worthwhile work if I remained a teacher in Thailand. It is true everyone has their own definition of “VIP”, but sharing a small, kitchen-less, air conditioner-less, hot water-less, room 10km outside of the city center may be fine, but in no way is it “VIP”. There are also happy ascetic monks in the forest temples, but they would not claim to be living a “VIP” lifestyle. So, I would encourage people to experience life to the fullest, including spending some time in Thailand on the cheap. However, if they want to live there long-term as a VIP, they realistically need a lot more than $285/month.
Hey Dave,
Thanks a lot for sharing all your thoughts on this. I guess it all comes down to perspective. I didn’t choose the term “luxurious” or “fancy” lifestyle, because that’s definitely not what this is, but I chose “VIP” because in my mind a VIP is not so much about expenses or wealth, but about being comfortable and satisfied. Perhaps since VIP or any other suitable words are so subjective, it’s a challenge to come up with any word that would 100% be accurate to all our minds. Yes, this is how to live cheap, but I feel that I’m blessed to be able to live in Thailand for such a price while maintaing what I feel is a great level of comfort, and that’s what I was trying to prove through this article.
I do agree with you, for others that wish to live in central Bangkok, this amount may or may not be suitable, but the lesson of the article, like you mentioned at the beginning of your message is what you are personally happy with.
Thanks for checking this article out!
I’d like to see a follow-up video (to the one on how to tie a plastic bag like a Thai) about how to untie the bag like an expert. Without involving pricking the bag either.
Also, as much as Bangkok has a huge amount of Thai food on offer, it all seems roughly the same to me. You’ve got your non-goopy spicy dishes, and you’ve got your goopy spicy dishes, and you’ve got things that are neither of the above, ie the bananas with “caramel,” the things that look like tacos became introduced to ikebana, and liquids meant to be consumed by a straw but often have vaguely pink or translucent things floating in them. Bones and Chaozhou-style soups also are common. But I don’t ever want to eat much while in Bangkok because A)the southern Chinese flavors ruin the day, B)goop in this sense isn’t good (although spicy can be) and C) the people cooking the food just whine and drone on about who knows what, whenever I ask to eat something (granted, I know about six Thai words/phrases). No matter where I go, I receive a prolonged, childish huff about whatever, and then they mumble under their breath, and I wonder why I’m wasting my time with their intangible acrobatics while I could just go to Soi Arab or an Indian restaurant. Bangkok, call me back when you’ve got khao neeo mamuang and pomegranates on every block instead of simmering oil slicks in large pots.
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Hi Jonathan, thanks for sharing your thoughts about Thai food and visiting Bangkok. I may have to do an follow up video about opening the contents of a rubberband tied bag… sometimes it gets messy!
Sorry to hear about your bad experiences with Thai food. I do understand what you have said sometimes about the street food vendors, especially certain areas of town, aren’t always the kindest. But that being said, it’s the unfriendly vendors that stick out as remembering, while I still think there are far more nice friendly vendors in Bangkok than not. There are many many Thai dishes, but if you do begin eating on the streets a lot, many of the same dishes begin to re-appear, however, if you do search you’ll find a great amount of diversity. But getting some occasional Arab, Indian, or Japanese food is a great thing to do while in Bangkok too!
Are you living in China now?
Hi Mark.
I posted this under one of your comments earlier instead of a new post. A very interesting article. However I do have a couple of questions.
1. I believe you have to do an immigration run every 90 days? How much does this cost and therefore how much would it add to the monthly VIP life?
2. What do you do all day? Do you work and if not? what occupies your time?
3. I am assuming not all areas are so safe? How did you find a safe place to live?
4. Its now over a year since your initial post, so how are the costs now?
Thanks a million.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Hi Colin,
Thanks for stopping by.
1. Yes, either every 90 or every 60 days depending on what plans I have. I am still a traveler, not permanently living in Thailand so I tend to take long trips (maybe 2 weeks or a month) and get a Thai visa while I’m on a trip. The cheapest way to make a visa run is either to Laos or to Cambodia, and a round trip + visa + a few nights stay may cost around $150 – $250 per trip.
2. I am a freelance writer and blogger and also do some social media. I’m still figuring out what exactly I do, but being able to live cheaply gives me an opportunity to try and make a living as a freelancer, while still having enough money to live on.
3. Originally I had a few friends living in Bangkok and I lived in their area and then after that I just found places by exploring, just after getting a feel for the city. Here are some of my personal favorite living areas in Bangkok: http://migrationology.com/2012/02/rent-cheap-apartments-in-bangkok-thailand/
4. Just for costs living in Bangkok in a studio apartment for me now, the costs are still quite similar – around $300 per month. But like I mentioned above in some other comments, this is just the cost of living in Bangkok – not including my insurance fees and anything I’m doing online or one time random costs (like purchasing a camera for example).
Hope this helps and feel free to ask any other questions!
Mark
Hello.
May I ask you. How do you do to live in BKK all this time?
The longer visa I get is just from 1 to 3 month, and that’s all…
Thank you!
Hey Javier, well I do quite a bit of traveling in and out of the country so I renew my visa each time I leave. Have you visited Thailand already?
Hat’s off yo you first, for your effort in saving. It is a real difficult goal to do that actually. Since the last Bangkok visit which I ve refered lots of the ur goumet experience, I am in love with travelling. I have a family, which makes my time n budget even more difficult, but I will try. Thanx for your inspiration post.
Hi Yee, thanks for reading this and glad that you found it inspirational. I hope you can visit Bangkok again soon!
Sound like you are having a ball over in Bangkok.
I totally agree with your budget and that this is very achievable. It gives a very good baseline of costs for those thinking of coming over to Thailand but unsure of how much they would need to live on.
I expect that the shower water is warm for most months of the year so it is not too much of a hardship, but I don’t think I would want to go without a bed, even one of those hard Thai beds that come with the apartments.
Keep the stories coming
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Thank you Stephen! This budget is definitely achievable, and exactly, it’s a base figure of what’s possible. Yes, most of the time the water is even too warm straight from the pipe!
Hi Mark,
Thanks for your posting, for one being fondling the idea of going or not this really sets a good “operative” perspective of things. Thank you!
Cheers,
Max in Costa Rica
You’re welcome Max, glad you enjoyed this and thank you for checking it out!
Hello Mark I just saw your page and I really digged it…so nice
I am in Philipines now and I am thinking about going to bangkok for one month I would like to do muay thai training. (i am a total beginner)
That’s my first time in Bangkok and I really know nothing.
Could please tell me if there is website to find a room for one month and if not how should I do to find one…which neighborhood do you recommend me and do you have any idea of a good muay thai camp?
Thank you very much and sorry to bother you.
But I m kind of LOST
Niki
Hello Niki, good to hear from you and glad you’re coming to Bangkok!
I’ve never done a Muay Thai course, but here’s some information from some good blogging friends of mine: http://theplanetd.com/muay-thai-kickboxing-thailand/ Also, I’ve seen this place and it looks pretty good – http://www.chacritmuaythaischool.com/
My advice would be to find accommodation near where you’ll be going to Muay Thai school – getting around Bangkok can be a bit of a hassle, and I can imagine that after doing some training, it would be nice to be very close to your place. Perhaps the school you decide on may have accommodation?
Have you seen this article http://migrationology.com/2012/02/rent-cheap-apartments-in-bangkok-thailand/? Here’s some info about renting apartments in Bangkok!
All the best,
Mark
thank you VERY MUCH for the TIPS Mark
But if I am just looking for a place for 1 month do you have any idea if there is website for month to month renting?
all the best
Niki
Hey Lily,
Have you heard of http://www.9flats.com/? I’ve booked an apartment through them in Korea, and I think they have a lot of choices in Bangkok. Do a search, and I think they might have some good options! Also check out https://www.airbnb.com/
Great!
thanksss
I found a place In sumkhuvit.
))
thank for the help and lets hang out when I am there
Best
Great to hear that Lily!
Hi everyone,
I am going to live in Bangkok, my company address: 1040/19, Asia World Building, Soi Sukhumvit 101 (Punnawithi 34), Sukhumvit Rd., Bang- Chak, Phrakanong, Bangkok, 10260 / Thailand
Because this is the first time I live in Bangkok, I would love to find out a cheap accommodation which is near my working place. Is there any accommodation with price $70/month?
Thank you very much for your assistance
Duy
Hey Duy, glad to hear you’ll be coming to Bangkok to work. Hopefully someone in the area can recommend something! I know there are a lot of budget places around the On Nut station.
Hey Mark,
Thank you very much for your message
I have a question please advise if On Nut Station is near my working place?
Appreciate your help
Duy
Yes, On Nut is just 2 stops from your work place.
Hi Mark,
Thank you very much for your help.
I am going to arrive in Bangkok on Jan 28th, I will stay at Bangkok hotel one day, and then I will try to find out a cheap accommodation in On Nut. I hope I am luck.
Best
Duy
Hey Duy, no problem, best of luck for everything!
Hi Mark, can you please help me one more thing which online map do you use in Bangkok?
Thanks
Duy
Hey Duy, I use Google Maps.
Mark it can be done I live on $400 u s, have nice studio, big pool,and a Honda Phantom,15minute walk to PATTAYA Beach (8yrs Thailand). mark do you have a friend (Blogger) who leaves like me and you on East Coast of Malaysia.about 300-400k’s (base camp) south of the Thai boarder…best Blog in Asia, your the best………always quote prices for your readers
Thanks a lot, I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment. Yes, there are so many possibilities!
Hi Mark, I am planning a trip to bangkok this summer for a two month stay, and got to say your breakdown was awesome. I had a question up at the top of your list but forgot it, oh yeah, how do you stay in thailand for so long if not married or working? I am confused as my friend has been there a few times and his stay was only 30 days, so he had to leave the country and fly to singapore (his choice of other country) to get his passport stamped again to stay an extra 30 days ( drive out of the country only gets 15 day stamp at border) any info would be good because I plan on one day ( hopefully soon) moving there myself, and where would be a good part of bangkok to move to, to be close to american cuisine should I not like the local cuisine?
Hey Kyle, great to hear you also like Thailand. I try to get a 2 month double entry visa each time, which gives me 2 months and then I can extend each entry by a month, giving me 6 months altogether. I’m American, and that’s the best option for me, but it can depend upon your nationality. Try to get a 2 month double entry visa.
Hi Mark,
Please help me one more thing
I am going to rent a studio at 32/95-96 Soi Romklao 4, Romklao Rd., Min Buri, Bangkok 10510. But I don’t know if it is near my work place 1040/19, Asia World Building, Soi Sukhumvit 101 (Punnawithi 34), Sukhumvit Rd., Bang- Chak, Phrakanong, Bangkok, 10260 / Thailand?
Many thanks for your help
Hey Duy, I’m not fully sure where Asia World Building is, but I do know that Min Buri is quite a ways out. You may want to do a google map search for both of these locations to see exactly where they are.
What area of Bangkok do you stay in Mark?
Hey, when I wrote this post I was staying just off Suk Sawat road at Bangpakok Market, near Phra Pradaeng. Now I’m staying near Udom Suk. How about you?
It’s awesome to see your breakdown… im planning to go bangkok this year…
try to visit philippines also sir.. u will surely love the place also…
Hey Rezart, glad you plan to visit Bangkok this year. I was in the Philippines a few years back and had an amazing time, would love to return again in the future. What part of the Philippines are you from?
Great article. I’m thinking of possibly going there for a 3 week vacation at the end of the year.
Thanks Yong, hope you can make the trip!
You know, you are so right about living “right”. In the western world, people just create opportunities for spending for no reason. Talk about owning a car, getting smog checks done, renewing your drivers license, paying for gas and getting your car washed. Are they all needed? Naay!
Think out of the box, western world!
I was in Bangkok a few years ago – it’s a fascinating place. Interesting breakdown of your expenses BTW.
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i stay in cebu for a year… and in ilo-ilo for almost 6 months.. i really enjoy staying in the philippines… are you still in bangkok?
Hey Rezart, great to hear that, at the moment I’m traveling around India!
How do you like Cebu?
Hey Michael, I’ve never been to Cebu, didn’t have a chance to visit yet, but would love to in the future. How do you like it?
Mark good luck and all the best to you and your girlfriend/spouse. You all have an exciting life and live it too the fullest. In my experience it gets more difficult travelling and adapting as one gets older. LOL>Take Care
Thanks a lot Anthony!
Way to lay it out there on your expenses. I usually take out that much from the ATM every time I leave the room
I’m a drinker though…this budget is nowhere near feasible for the drinkers out there.
Also, my apartment is usually right under 16,000 baht/month including utilities. It has in-house laundry, gym, pool, restaurant.
More power to you, I couldn’t live like that, but it’s nice to see others out there enjoying their travels. Good luck with the site.
Thanks a lot! Yah, it’s all about how we are comfortable living, and I’m sure I won’t want to live like this forever (especially when I have a family), but for the moment it works well – and I wrote this article mainly to show the possibilities. My fiance previously stayed in a pretty nice condo as well, I think it was 12 per month and included some great facilites as well.
Thanks again, and all the best for you too!
You can save a lot more money cooking meals at home – although in that case, unless you are a good cook and can cook Thai food, it might become boring. I am in Indonesia and if I cook at home I spend only $70/month on rice, vegetables and cooking oil. I use a portable single-burner gas stove that uses the small butane cartridges. You can rent a small house here on the outskirts of Jakarta for $60/month. Electric is about $15/month if you don’t use A/C but with A/C on all the time it will be about $70 but I think it’s worth it. I never can adjust to the heat.
Hey Rick, thanks a lot for sharing. Would love to live in Indonesia for some time in the future. Living cost sounds quite a bit less than in Thailand!
This is an awesome post! We are living the nomadic life and its great to get an idea of costs around the world. Thailand is high on our list and we hope to spend a few months there late this year. This post has given us a good idea of what we would be looking at if we decide to stay there long term. Thanks for such an informative post!
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No problem Nicole, glad it helps and hope you guys can come to stay in Thailand for a few months!
Hi Mark,
Thanks for this really informative post; I have been looking into moving to Thailand recently so found this really helpful – thanks again!
Emma
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No problem Emma, glad you found it useful!
Hello there!
Currently traveling Oz and getting low on funds. As you have plenty of experience me and my friend were just wondering where the cheapest place to stay in bangkok is?
We are planning to stay for a month but whether that be in hostels or like you live in, an apartment we do not know.
Any help would be much appreciated!
p.s. Only have around $500 Australian dollars left!
Hey Chris, check out the http://www.theoverstay.com/ – I think it’s the cheapest place to stay short term in Bangkok.
I have back problems. How much does a massage cost there? Wish I could have one on a regular basis. Thanks a bunch.
Hi Michael. In the central busy areas of Bangkok it will cost 200 – 300 THB per hour, but if you go to a local neighborhood it’s about 150 THB. BTW it’s about 30 THB or so to the $.
Hi Mark. I had a great time reading your stories. Continue to keep up your great work. I have a question tho. With what visa are you staying in thailand with? Tourist visa or work visa or something else? How could I live in Thailand without working? Thanks!!!
Hello, thanks a lot for reading. I’ve been on a number of different visas. I was on a work permit for 1 year and now I’m on a tourist visa.
Hey Mark. Thanks for the prompt reply! I really like your blog because it focuses so much on asia. I am korean-american, have lived in many cities in the states. Also have lived in China and visited a few other countries as well. I am currently living in Busan, Korea. I see that you have visited Seoul, Korea. Anyways, my facebook page is “taxi tuna.” You can look me up if you’d like. Next time you visit Korea, you can get in touch with me thru facebook and drop me an email. I can show you around, introduce you to different korean cuisine you may not have tried, etc. Or next time I return to thailand, it would be my pleasure to bump into you. thx for a great travel+food blog!
Hey, thanks a lot for checking out my blog. Yes, will definitely let you know if I come back to visit Korea again!
Mark That’s great details you add in here… I’m a Blogger and flying this 21st… After this trip.. I’m planning to come to Bangkok and stay there for 2-3 months..and see how it goes… Thanks for great informative guide..
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Hey Harsh, glad it was useful, all the best!
Great to see someone else can get by comfortably on very low budget. I thought mine at $400 was about as low as it goes
Kudos
Thanks Neale!
Hi there, great information here, really inspiring as I’ll be moving out to bangkok this summer with less savings than I’d originally planned. I noticed that this article is a couple years old now though and was wondering how the prices and your cost of living might have increased in this time? Thanks in advance for any reply!
Hi Christopher, thanks a lot for reading this article. The article remains pretty much the same and as is, perhaps prices have increased a little in Bangkok overall, but it would still be possible to live in Bangkok for $300 – $400 per month quite well. As for myself, my budget has changed a bit, as I am now engaged and planning to get married!
Hi Mark,
Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s really precious information for me because i am planning to stay in bangkok for a couple of months from April onward. I’ looking forward to the whole new experience like yours. So please tell me Mark if my budget is USD600 a month, and i’d like to live near to Skytrain or BTS (but not necessarily in the city centre), get an apartment with gym facilities, would it be enough? And where would you recommend? Appreciate your reply.
Hey Glenn, good to hear from you. A condo in a good location with gym and pool will probably go for around 12,000 baht per month (around $400). So depending on your eating / drinking desires $600 would probably be enough, but might be a little more than that. You might look around On Nut, Ari, or up north in Lad Prao. Check out condos called Lumpini Suites and The Life. All the best!
hey Mark I was wanting some info on what part of town you live in. I am currently in Bangkok and looking for a more permanent resident
I don’t mean to hate, but your article is grossly misleading. “How To Exist” or “How to Get By” would have been accurate. Living like a “VIP” involves much more than you detailed–by any sane persons standards. VIP’s don’t share rooms with nomads. And a VIP lifestyle most certainly has a kitchen and hot water. I mean those are an integral part of the most basic of living conditions.
It’s nice that you share your experiences with the world. But you have a responsibility as a writer to tell a true and accurate story. You may catch extra eyeballs from people wanting to live like a VIP. But what you delivered in your post might be useful for anyone wanting to live one step up from a hobo. That’s a far cry from what you promised in your title.
Hi Jake, I understand what you’re saying, and I also think that living and comfort are so relative that in order to understand what I mean by VIP it’s necessary for someone to read my entire article, not just the title. In my opinion a VIP residence doesn’t need to have a kitchen inside if there are 100 street stalls outside the door. And hot water? That’s hardly necessary in Bangkok.
This article is meant to show a budget that’s possible in Bangkok – and in my opinion, since I’m comfortable, it’s a VIP lifestyle.
I would consider this lifestyle you have discussed luxury my friend! I’m currently finishing my last year of university in canada and am really considering teaching english for a year there! Great article! I am curious tho, are there any fitness centres around?
Hey Jason, thanks for reading! Yes, there are plenty of fitness centers around Bangkok. There are nice luxury ones just like in US or Canada, but quite expensive. Then there are more local gyms that might charge $20 – $30 a month. Then there’s an outdoor gym at Lumpini Park in Silom which is pretty cool – some of the weights are made from concrete filled tires. I think you’ll enjoy Bangkok!
Hi Mark,
With regards to the Internet speeds here in Thailand I believe that 8 Mb per second is actually 8 megabits per second, not 8 megabytes. A bit is 1/8 of a byte and the abbreviation for megabyte is MB (with a big B). This explains why your Internet speed is only 1 MB/sec.
The advertisements in Thailand for fast Internet access usually all use Mb to trick people into thinking it is super fast. Even their employees, when questioned, don’t know the difference between a Mb and a MB and think that the service is provided in MB.
Hey Tony, awesome, thanks for the extra info! That’s why internet always sounds a lot faster than it is, though it’s still pretty good these days!
Hi mark just wondering, are you mixed race?
Hey Adam, yes, I’m 1/2 Chinese and 1/2 German!
Hi Mark interesting article
I would like to add a few points that would for sure increase most (almost all) peoples expenses.
No matter how much you love love Thai food.Eat it long enough and trust me you will be buying western food some times.Western food its a lot more pricey than Thai food.
Almost NO westerners share apartments in Thailand.
If you have have air-con 98% of westerners WILL turn it on every now and then because it gets
pretty damm hot some times…
Guys girlfriends will be few and far between on a $285.06 Budget if at all….
I see you have a picture of Durian in your picture on top..Well I really doubt you will be eating
much expensive Durian on your budget..
I would say to lead a rock bottom lifstyle and still have a some what decent life you would
need 1000-1200 a month and this would hardly be living in luxury.
2000 a month would minimal for a living the good life lifestyle even then you would still
have to watch your budget a bit,,,
Hey Bob, thanks a lot for your suggestions and tips! It also depends what part of Bangkok you’re living in, prices really fluctuate around the city. Yes, having a girlfriend or wife changes things!
Sounds almost unreal! Lol I can barely survive off of $1300 monthly in Louisiana but I am considering moving my son and I to Thailand to teach English for a year so this blog was quite intriguing
thanks
Hey Kayla, that’s a great idea!
My friend wants to take a gap year next year and was thinking about moving to a foreign country. Do you know what a 19 year old girl with $3000 could do/ how she would live in Thailand?
Hey Annah, hmm, will she have a source of income? Or is $3000 all of her money? A whole year on $3000 is probably not a wise idea unless she has some money coming in. That being said, Thailand is a great place to visit!
WOW! I love the budget. Although I have traveled long term on a fixed amount of money, I have never lived quite so close. I do a lot of international house sitting, although now I am more of a digital nomad, and so for the price of an airline ticket, I often stay in beautiful houses in areas of supreme natural beauty for up to 90 days. It is so much fun to hear how other people are doing it.
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Hey Teresa, thanks a lot for stopping by. I’ve heard a lot about housesitting, but have never done it. Sounds fantastic!
Howdy!
You still in BKK? I have come to Chiang Mai for a year but I am seriously thinking about going back to BKK – it’s so boring here!
I can budget for 50,000 Baht a month.
Ideally I’d like a 1 bed with hot water and AC. Kitchen not needed.
Also need to have high speed internet installed (dont want to use a communal wi-fi)
A Thai friend said she used to rent a studio around Sukhumvit for 10K a month. Not bad. What do you think about a 1 bed around there? Or can you think of an area that is further out, with good local Thai food but easy to get to the Skytrain from? Maybe like 10 stops out or something?
Thanks!
Hey Matt,
You might try a condo around Ari station or Thong Lor / Ekkamai area. You’ll find many choices for your budget!