This article looks at the 5 best places to retire in Thailand. If you want to check out our detailed analysis of how Thailand is boosting its growth and quality of life for businesses and expatriates, go to 12 Best Places to Retire in Thailand.
5. Koh Samui
Insider Monkey Score: 9
With a warm tropical beach climate, white sandy beaches, and crystal blue waters, Koh Samui is a dream retirement destination in Thailand. Its main beaches are some of the best in the world, with growth in luxury resorts attracting quality chefs, restaurants, and other amenities in the region. There is a vibrant expatriate community here as well. Expats living in the area report living comfortably between $1,500 and $2,000 per month.
4. Hua Hin
Insider Monkey Score: 10
Hua Hin is a coastal city in Thailand. It is an attractive retirement destination owing to its scenic and well-maintained beaches, affordable lifestyle, and modern healthcare facilities. It is also well-known for its world-class golf courses, a favorite pastime of many retirees. There is an established expatriate community here, allowing retirees to socialize and build a strong support network. A single expat retiree can manage living modestly at $875 per month, with $380 spent on rent.
3. Bangkok
Insider Monkey Score: 11
Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and an attractive choice for expat retirees worldwide. It is feasible as a retirement destination for all its modern amenities; such as healthcare, shopping malls, and even international restaurants. Brimming with Thai culture, the city offers numerous temples, cultural sites, and attractions to explore. The dining options are just as diverse and cater to all tastes and preferences. The city is even a shopper’s paradise that retirees can explore through its extensive public transportation system. A single expat retiree can live on $1,050 per month on average, with $598 spent on rent.
2. Phuket
Insider Monkey Score: 12
Phuket is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire in Thailand, and the largest island in the country. Healthcare facilities in Phuket are also modern and efficient. There is a branch of Bangkok Hospital, an internationally recognized hospital, on the island as well. Public transportation is extensive, and the island offers a diverse lifestyle, including bustling tourist areas and quaint towns. The cost of living is reasonable compared to Western countries. A full-time helper who cleans and cooks’ costs $350 a month only, whereas rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs around $500 on average. An expat retiree can live a good life in Phuket between $1,500 to $2,000 per month.
1. Chiang Mai
Insider Monkey Score: 15
Chiang Mai, a city in Northern Thailand, offers a great climate, excellent healthcare, and friendly locals for retirees. The average temperature here is around 24.6 °C (76 °F), with cooler temperatures in the highlands. There is a diverse and well-established expatriate community that retirees can integrate with as well. The international airport has good transportation links, and the city is safe to live in. A single expat retiree can live here for an average of $648 per month, with $310 spent on rent.
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