Why not move to Thailand?
If you found this article, you are already thinking about it. Well, consider this a sign!
We know it can be scary to move to a brand new place and start over. But don't worry: this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know before making that change.
Why move to Thailand?
The main reason why many French people have been drawn to live in Thailand is the affordability - in fact, it is dubbed one of the most affordable cities in the world! A little money can go a long way, especially when it comes to accommodation. In addition to a low cost of living, the country is full of incredible scenery, beaches and tropical settings to explore in your free time.
And let's not forget, the food is to die for! You'll find the famous Thai green curries and mango sticky rice, but be sure to try more unique local dishes. The flavors will amaze you and keep you coming back for more.
Cost of Living in Thailand
Here is an average budget for going to Thailand:
- Rent $300 - $1250
- Electricity $40
- Water $20
- Phone $10 - $25
- Gas $10
- Internet $10 -$20
- Outings $300 - $1600
- Shopping $150 and up
- Housekeeping (less than 10 hours) $60
- Car or scooter rental $50 - 150
- Total: from $1000
What is the average budget of a rent in Thailand?
Rent is one of the most important costs when moving to Thailand. There are different types of accommodation such as apartments, houses or more luxurious villas. However, for a low rent, you can have something very comfortable while somewhere else, it would be much more expensive. The rent is defined by the type of accommodation, the province and the location.
In Bangkok, for a shared room counted about $ 300, and an apartment $ 450. Before you embark on your journey, take a rental for a short stay first to be able to evaluate the cost of living.
The even cheaper option is a hostel, but it can be a bit small. For more comfort, you can also rent an Airbnb.
Here is a list that summarizes the different rent budgets:
- Shared room: $300
- Apartment: $450
- Luxury villa: more than $1000
Food in Thailand
Thai food is simply tasty, different and curious.
If you take a drink, a dish and a dessert, you will pay about $2.40 per meal, or $8 per day. This is the average price of meals at the local market, but if you want to indulge in a fancier restaurant, it's still very affordable at only $10.
If you want to save money, you can always cook. In fact, a full load of groceries per month comes to $180 just by going to the grocery store.
- Rice (1kg) - $1.14
- Potatoes - $1.17
- Chicken - $2.37
- Vegetable oil - $2 - $3
- Bread (loaf) - $1.20
- Eggs - $1.63
- Milk (regular, 1 liter) - $1.60
- Bottle of wine - $15.00
- Apples - $2.62
How to send your children to school in Thailand?
If you have children and you want to move to this country, there are several solutions. You can choose between a local public school or a private international school.
Public schools teach Thai and are only free for Thai children. Many foreigners prefer international schools which are mostly in Bangkok. There is one school that is based outside the city, the Samui School.
The downside is that private schools are very expensive. Tuition fees range from $11,000 to $17,000 per person per year.
Taxes in Thailand
The country has the advantage of having low taxes. Nevertheless, some laws are different if you are resident or not. Thus, if you stay more than 180 days per year in Thailand, you will be considered as a tax resident and you will be subject to local taxes.
If you come from the UK, Thailand has signed an agreement to avoid double taxation. The same agreement exists with many other countries. Check with your local tax office to see if this is the case.
Unexpected costs
Although you can plan for everything, there will always be expenses you didn't think of, no matter where you move to. Indeed, you may need to return home in a hurry, buy a broken appliance, etc.
This is why we advise you to plan a budget if necessary. This way, you are prepared for any eventuality.
If you want to move to Thailand or even to a country outside of your own, it is best to be surrounded by experts. Call on a moving company so that you can leave with peace of mind. DocShipper carries out many moves abroad for individuals as well as for professionals.
