Live & Work
Living in Bangkok: Expat & Digital Nomad Guide 2026
Neighbourhoods, costs, visa options, and practical tips for expats and digital nomads
Bangkok is one of the world's top destinations for expats and digital nomads — and for good reason. Affordable living, world-class street food, reliable internet, modern coworking spaces, and a thriving international community make it easy to settle in. Whether you're relocating for work, building a remote business, or just testing the waters, this guide covers everything you need to know about living in Bangkok in 2026.
Where to Live
Top Neighbourhoods for Expats in Bangkok
Sukhumvit (Asok–Phrom Phong)
12,000–25,000 THBInternational hub with restaurants, rooftop bars, and modern condos. The beating heart of expat Bangkok.
Silom & Sathorn
15,000–30,000 THBBangkok's CBD with upscale dining, embassies, and Lumpini Park. Polished and professional.
Ari & Saphan Khwai
10,000–20,000 THBTrendy local neighbourhood with indie cafes, vintage shops, and a relaxed Thai-hipster feel.
Thonglor & Ekkamai
15,000–35,000 THBBangkok's trendiest area: Japanese restaurants, craft cocktail bars, boutique gyms, and upscale condos.
On Nut & Phra Khanong
8,000–15,000 THBThe budget-friendly expat favourite. Big malls, local markets, and great value condos along the BTS line.
Rattanakosin (Old Town)
8,000–18,000 THBHistoric Bangkok near the Grand Palace and Khao San Road. Charming guesthouses and riverside walks.
Ladprao & Ratchada
7,000–14,000 THBAuthentic Thai living with night markets, MRT access, and some of Bangkok's best street food.
Bang Na & Udomsuk
6,000–12,000 THBQuiet suburban area with mega malls (Mega Bangna, IKEA), spacious condos, and very low rents.
Costs
Cost of Living in Bangkok
Monthly costs in THB (1 USD ≈ 35 THB)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR condo) | ฿8,000 | ฿15,000 | ฿30,000 |
| Food & groceries | ฿6,000 | ฿12,000 | ฿20,000 |
| Transport (BTS/MRT/Grab) | ฿1,500 | ฿3,000 | ฿6,000 |
| Gym membership | ฿800 | ฿1,500 | ฿3,000 |
| Coworking space | - | ฿3,000 | ฿6,000 |
| Phone & internet | ฿500 | ฿1,000 | ฿1,500 |
| Health insurance | ฿2,000 | ฿5,000 | ฿10,000 |
| Visa runs / extensions | ฿1,500 | ฿2,000 | ฿3,000 |
| Total | ฿20,300 | ฿42,500 | ฿79,500 |
Prices are estimates based on current market data (Feb 2026). Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 35 THB.
Stay Legal
Visa Options for Expats
DTV (Destination Thailand Visa)
Digital nomads and remote workers. Allows multiple entries and legal stay for remote work.
Learn moreTourist Visa (60-day)
Short-term visitors testing the waters. Easy to obtain, extendable at immigration.
Learn moreThailand Elite Visa
Long-term residents who want hassle-free entry, VIP airport service, and no visa runs.
Learn moreED Visa (Education)
Those learning Thai, Muay Thai, or cooking. Affordable long-term option with cultural immersion.
Learn moreTips
Practical Tips for Daily Life
Bank Account
Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn (KBank) are the most expat-friendly. You'll need your passport and a proof of address (condo contract works). Some branches near Sukhumvit are used to foreign applicants. The KBank app supports English.
SIM Card & eSIM
AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove all offer prepaid plans from 300 THB/month with unlimited data. You can buy SIMs at any 7-Eleven or airport counter. For eSIM, services like Saily work with most modern phones.
Health Insurance
Private hospitals like Bumrungrad and BNH are world-class but expensive without insurance. SafetyWing and Cigna Global are popular with nomads. A basic outpatient visit costs 500–2,000 THB without insurance.
Coworking Spaces
Bangkok has 100+ coworking spaces. Top picks: The Hive Thonglor (day pass 350 THB), AIS D.C. Silom (free!), Hubba-TO on Ekkamai, and CAMP at Maya in Chiang Mai. Most offer high-speed WiFi, AC, and coffee.
Food Delivery Apps
Grab Food, LINE MAN, and Robinhood are the big three. Robinhood charges no commission so prices are often lower. Most restaurants are on at least two platforms. Average meal delivery: 80–150 THB.
Transport Apps
Grab is the go-to for taxis and motorbike rides. Bolt is a cheaper alternative. For the BTS/MRT, get a Rabbit card (refillable) — it saves time and money. Bangkok's boat services on the Chao Phraya are cheap and fast for riverside areas.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bangkok a good city for digital nomads in 2026?
How much does it cost to live in Bangkok per month?
What visa do digital nomads use in Thailand?
Which Bangkok neighbourhood is best for expats?
Is it safe to live in Bangkok?
Can I open a Thai bank account as an expat?
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