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Rent, elec, water $300. Food $200. Who is lying? It's easily doable, in fact you could slash rent in half but then you would really be living like a Thai.
Of course you can live like a Thai person. And I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with that. My point is that majority of Westerners, unless they moved here because they were totally broke, would not want to live the average Thai lifestyle. That’s all.
Thanks for posting finally someone tells the truth. Been here 15 years retired bought my condo in Thonglor yea high end area. My area my building older condo rent for studio is 15000.
I am Thai and I don't like when any foreigner do a VDO about how cheap the cost of living here. It likes they are portraying only 1/5 of the truth just to do a clickbait. And I couldn't help wonder if they are affiliated with some business and get some endorsing money in return? Well, we have pretty much all price range of service to offer but mostly quality comes with higher price. Anyway, thanks for sharing your experience here. People like you are the one I feel we should welcome. The ones who came with no intention to exploit our country. Keep up doing your good work.
I really appreciate that from you, especially since you are a local. I completely understand why you’re not happy how many people portray this country as very cheap.
No-one is exploiting your country. Tourists bring money TO you country, not exploiting your country. This is especially valuable for Thailand as a larger share of its GDP comes from tourists compared to many other countries . . . So, no more saying people are exploiting you. Thailand is getting money from tourism.
Living on $500-$600 a month in Thailand is achievable but comes with significant compromises. This budget typically suits a small city or provincial lifestyle, living much like an average local. However, most foreigners struggle with this due to the lack of amenities and the difficulty of covering only basic needs. It's essential to have extra funds set aside for emergencies and unforeseen expenses. Believing you can live like royalty on a shoestring budget is unrealistic. The real goal is to enjoy more life for less money, without unnecessary drama. The aim isn't just to survive but to truly thrive in the Land of Smiles.
I've watched hundreds of yt videos about Thailand and not 1 person has EVER said you can live there for $500. $500 will cover the rent in a nice place but nothing else.
I just watched the whole video, and I found everything you mentioned to be very subjective. I live in a country that's 40% more expensive than Thailand, and we spend about $500 a month on food-$250 for groceries and $250 for dining out. This includes cooking 2 to 3 meals a day at home and eating out for around 15 meals a month. We don’t eat street food; we prefer Western cuisine when we dine out. Spending $1,000 by yourself on food in Thailand is a lot of money-you must eat a lot! I can guarantee that where my partner and I go out, it's never at hole-in-the-wall places. Based on my experience in a more expensive country, I know you can eat well for much less than what you mentioned, without relying on street food. Additionally, I haven’t seen anyone claiming they can live in Thailand for $500 a month. Most people suggest it’s around $1,000, which is also subjective. It seems like you made this video for the same reason you say others create videos about living on a $500 budget: for clickbait.
I probably spent closer to $15-$20 a day in all honesty. I’m talking about an average because there are days when I might go and have a really nice meal. I don’t cook, and buying healthy food is not cheap. That is the same in any country. Everyone has different budgets and finances so there is no one size fits all. I’m just sharing my own experiences. At the end of the day I think $1500-$2000 is really the sweet spot for a single person living in a big city like Bangkok. Of course, if you start going out partying and drinking all the time that number can easily go up Significantly. Thank you for sharing your cost for everyone to see. The comment section of this video is a treasure trove for anyone that wants to find out what kind of costs expats have here in Thailand.
@@LifewithSerg I completely agree with everything you mentioned! I just haven’t come across anyone claiming to live on $500 a month in Thailand. I’m really lucky to have a Colombian wife who’s an amazing cook and great with finances-that definitely helps stretch our budget! By the way, I’m in Brazil, in the city of Fortaleza. It’s similar to some parts of Thailand, just not as cheap or safe. Good work, by the way!
You've not seen anyone making videos claiming "living on a $500 budget:"? In the first line of the video below, they say live like royalty for $100 a week: ruclips.net/video/e9B42T5rk5o/видео.html Below is the video's title and videos like this, are all over you tube; '20 Low-Cost Countries Where $100 a Week Covers Everything" Thailand and the country i live in (Cambodia) aren't listed in this one. But people know they are cheaper places to live and are listed in most videos claiming ridiculously cheap places to live. The only people I know who live that cheap are the locals and they aren't particularly happy about it. If westerners are forced to live for any length of time on a budget like that. They get a loan from some one and fly back to their country of origin. So $100 a week to live like royalty, it certainly is not.
@@martinherald6492 You just sent me an AI-generated video 9 days ago, but this discussion was over a month ago and was about RUclipsrs, not AI. I stand by what I said-there are not RUclipsrs claiming you can live off $500 a month.
Yes, absolutely, I agree. I moved down to Bangkok from Florida. Bought a condo to cut down my expenses. My social security income is not much $750 after detection. Bought washer and dryer. Water filter under the sink. Transportation only busses. Cook my own. Pay money unnecessary renewal retirement visa (agents) It's hard to manage it. But I'm happy. Nice people Nice country. I never eat on side walks street food. Don't know how they keep maintaining temperature, fine dust vehicles dark smoke.....
Good for you. There aren't many places in the world where you can live nowadays on $750 a month. PS, what deductions on SS? If you're paying for Medicare while living abroad, that makes no sense as you are not using it. I believe it's something like $180 a month? I opted out. I am certainly not flying back to the US for medical care when I can get the same or better abroad.
You can live comfortably on $1200 to $1500 a month in places near Pattaya (further south the cheaper it gets like Jomtien, Bang Saray etc...) or Hua Hin Cha-Am, if single and probably $2000 as a couple. That's insurance, rent, food, utilities, transport and miscellaneous. Scrap that if you are a drinker. My girlfriend and I don't really drink. Bangkok adds a good 15% to 20% to expenses. With the recent strengthening baht, you can add at least 10% to this
No offense, but calling this "live comfortably" is for your style; I need to double your cost figure and to call it "comfortable" would be a stretch. But your comment is why this subject is a bit tricky: what works for one may not for another.
I prefer older condos because they are spacious, solid, thick wall, and well maintained. I am paying only 8,000 baht a month for a BIG studio with gym, pool, and big balcony. 24 hr security. I love it ! 👍🏽
A bit of perspective goes a long way! We are bombarded with the perception of cheap luxury living in Thailand which can land people in trouble. Well done Serg. 😊
These are young kids that come over here. They take a tiny condo way out from Central Bangkok eat street food or 711 every day and make their Vlogs. They have no intentions of living here full-time and therefore no need to mention all of the other necessary expenses that are required when one actually lives here.
I agree 💯%. I asked two RUclipsrs living in Thailand about the new tax laws for Expats. They had no idea what I was talking about. Their not concerned about it. Their just there for views and to build their channel showing their half naked bar girlfriends.
@@roberttaylor9628 cuz they don't pay, never will nor intend to pay tax here most creators still use their home country for taxes, international payment structures and claim not to 'work' here but promote it as 'iving' here. If viewers can't see that contradiction then it's their own mistake
Good that you are exposing the liars. You bring up many good points. Another thing they will need to account for is the cost of visa runs. People who want to spend only $500 a month will not be on the expensive visas or a retirement visa. I haven't watched a channel that claims a person can live on $500 a month, but even I know that is impossible.
There are some shady passport Bros that make these kind of videos. I didn’t even mention things like housecleaning services, dental appointments, and a lot of other things that a lot of these mathematically challenged people fail to bring up. Can you live in Thailand on $500 a month? Of course you can. But not in Bangkok, and it would be survival mode, and not really enjoyable for most people.
@@LifewithSerg Their target audience are naive men who think they will be dating a 10 and live like a king. It's pretty sad to hear this. I hope that you do more tips. I didn't think about living in an older building because I wanted updated security. I may need to consider the paper thin walls. There are many videos about expats in the Philippines running out of money really fast. I wonder why there isn't more Thailand content about that.
@ The building I live in right now is quite old, but it is in impeccable condition because it is owned by one family. There’s definitely been quite a bit of blowback in the comment section of this video, mostly by people that I think have been lying to themselves about their true cost-of-living here. The general consensus is that most of the foreigners that move to places like Thailand or Vietnam or the Philippines are doing solely because they cannot afford to live in their own country. They forget that some of us are doing it because we want a different experience. I moved here simply because I wanted a different experience in life but I enjoy my western comforts. I never planned to live here indefinitely. I might stay another 3, 5, 10 years or forever. I just don’t have any concrete decision yet. I think I will make some more videos like this. The people that are going to get angry at the hard truth or people that would get angry and upset with things anyways, I can’t control their emotions nor am I responsible for them. I simply share my experiences and thoughts on this channel. I realize that will not please everyone, and I’m completely fine with that. I would definitely you to look at some older buildings. If you have a simple question, feel free to reach out to me via Instagram.
I'm a cheap Charlie, so I can hit those numbers, sometimes over like 600 dollars but not often. However I do agree with you, most people can not do what I can do. I lived in a 28 square feet condo in Bangkok, costing 260 dollars and only 10 minutes away from bts. I then proceed to eat Thai food and take BTS 95 percent of the time. Even McDonalds and kfc is cheap. This life is boring for most people but I love it, I don't need to spend much to be happy. walking in parks, being in shopping centers, reading my kindle, sometimes taking a laptop and drinking bubble tea makes me happy. I met my friends in cheap food courts and have a chat and that would be a day. I guess everyone is different. Not everyone would like me as a friend because I'm cheap, but that's also ok, it doesn't bother me.
It sounds like you figured out a wonderful life for yourself. Also, I think living a frugal life is a good way to go. I don’t think anyone would not want to be friends with you because of your lifestyle, I hope you really don’t believe that. Sounds like you have a wonderful and peaceful life, I would not call it boring at all. Do what makes you happy my friend 😊
@fearless6947 I would always encourage everyone to surround themselves with a variety of people. I try to surround myself with people who are more successful and better than I am. And I’m not just talking about monetarily. I just feel that. I personally learn a lot from those people. at the same time, I have a lot of Thai friends who are struggling in several areas of their life. I’m always happy to assist them give them advice and do whatever I can to help them. At the end of the day, it’s not about how much money someone has, it’s about their character, their personality, and, how they treat other people. Again, I applaud you, as I think you were living a very happy life, and that’s all that matters.
It's easily possible to live on 30k THB/mth, even in BKK. There are thousands of teachers with a monthly salary of around 30k-35k THB. It depends on the budgeting as well as priorities of 😊
I certainly think that is very doable. I have several Thai friends who live on a lot less than 30,000 per month. Everyone has different budgets and finances. My point with this video was to take aim with people claiming that luxury condos are only $500 a month, and the others who are claiming that it’s, easy to live in Bangkok on $500 a month total.
@@LifewithSerg yep, it always depends on the budgeting and priorities. If we search long enough one may find a nice apartment for 10k-15k, but most certainly not on Sukhumvit 😁
Im Korean and managing one month living schedule in Bangkok on November this week. I think i need to rebudget my bucket-list after watching your video !! Thanks for honest review ! It was really helping :)
Koreans are very popular here right now with Cullen Hateberry. You don't have to live in Bangkok. There are lots of great places to live where you won't have to re-budget as much. Or, of course if BKK is your dream than that is cool too. Most of the Koreans here come to escape the city life. Isan can be great.
Philippines RUclipsrs do the same thing. Rent is cheap enough, though. Here in the Philippines, I'm renting a two-story house in a nice subdivision for about $306.
Yes, many Thai people live on $500 a month. It is very achievable. I’m just saying that for most westerners it would be a very difficult lifestyle based on what they are used to.
Not only street food contains sugar, salt and MSG. The only reason people say that street food uses these is that they can see the cook at work. You don't get to see what goes on in a closed kitchen. Plenty of 'normal' restaurants use all three, in abundance. The all popular 7/11 is a haven for processed carbohydrates, sugar, salt and no end of other additives.
You are absolutely right. Especially here in Thailand. MSG is in almost everything. There is typically copious amounts of salt and sugar in almost every dish here.
I agree with most of it, but I’m currently renting a 34 sqm apartment on the 43rd floor at Life Asoke Rama 9 for only 20k baht a month. Before this, I rented an Edge condo in Sukhumvit for just 25k. Both are luxury condos in perfect condition
I lived at the edge for a year and a half. I really like the condo but I was on the 35th floor. I still wouldn’t call it a luxury condo building. I paid the exact same you did for 32 m² unit I don’t live in a luxury condo building anymore. I live in a nice older high-rise, but the walls are ridiculously thick, and I have much more space. The edge, like many of these condos, was notorious for not always having the air-conditioning on in the lobby, and leaving lights off in the hallways. Next time you walk down one of your hallways notice only about half the lights are turned on. But that management group I believe is called Plus+, and they did an excellent job of cleaning and keeping the place tidy
Do either of you experience these two places provide furniture? If so, what’s the quality? I’ve learned of the furnishings being cheap. Maybe not the right word. Perhaps low quality. Thank you, JM
The building might appear luxurious (especially to westerners), but living in a 34 sqm apartment is obviously anything but luxurious, no matter how nice the amenities.
@shle20 I think a lot of people are missing this exact point. By most western standards, this will be a very small space for most people. It’s absolutely doable, there’s no question about that. It just depends where wants to allocate their finances.
I’m very happy to know that this video is resonating with so many people in a positive positive way. I tried to present information and a lighthearted way not to throw anyone under the bus. Glad you enjoyed it.
Wow Serg!!! 🤣 What a comphrensive video! Finally someone tells the truth!!! My wife and I loved this and 100% agree. You hit all the points, from square meters, thin walls, amenities that if you will use, it will be crowded, to even the visa costs! I have lived in Bangkok for 2 years now and so there have been so many growing pains that I wish I knew before. We live in a luxury skyrise condo build in the 90s, in the Pathumwan (Siam) area, next to Lumphini park. It's 154 Square Meters, has a gym, racquet ball court, and pool. We pay 32k THB a month, but that's because the lease on the land expires in 3 years, so rent is cheap. Overall, we spend $3k USD a month, although that cost is rising as THB has been gaining like crazy against the USD. One thing you forgot to mention, electricity costs are high here in Bangkok. For us foreigners that love air conditioning, those costs can be quite a bit, as we spend around 6k THB a month. I grow so tired of the trendy youtubers and instagrammers posting the amenities of LiFe Asok or Ashton, and then saying all this for $500! But they don't show the shoebox condo that you actually will live in! Thank you for telling the truth! And the food costs... don't get me started! I blew my budget out of the water when it came to food! Yes, economies of scale is a thing. It's cheaper to eat out instead of cooking, even if you shop at Makro.
I’m glad you enjoyed my video. Many of the people making those $500 type videos, lack a basic financial education. AND.. it’s not really their fault. Financial planning and budgeting is something very few people are taught correctly. I am by no means an expert at it. The majority of the comments this video have been very positive from people that understand basic economics. Thank you very much for sharing that information. I absolutely love Lumpini Park, and would love to live near it.
LOL who lives in a 1650 sq foot condo in the center of bkk. Of course electricity will be expensive there, cooling down a huge condo. My place in Canada is like half that and feels too big. What's worse, the people who claim to live on 500 a month or those who live completely opposite to a thai lifestyle?
@@LifewithSerg Of course but whats the point in a place that big. Rather retire earlier, and live in something normal than late and splurge on nonsense that doesn't make you any more happy. Or donate money to those in need if im already old.
I personally know people who live on $300 to $400 a month, ok not in Bangkok but it can be done. It’s all depends on your life style. Just as I know others who live on $2000 to $3000 a month, it all comes down to your life style.
Yes, of course it can be done. My point is that a lot of these RUclipsrs are just misleading people for views. Then those suckers come here and realize that a life on $500 a month is pretty miserable compared to what they’re used to in their western home.
Easily live for less than £600/mth in Chiang mai everything covered. Somtam thai is delicious and highly nutritious and very healthy for you..... Leave off the alcohol. Look at Smith Residence in Chiang Mai.
@rboot1621 i’m not saying that you can’t live on that kind of a budget, I’m saying that for the majority of westerners it will come with a greatly diminished lifestyle. I’m glad you’re able to make it work at that amount.
@@BO-mb8rr If I can live on $3000/month in an expensive major US city there's no doubt in my mind I can live on $1500/month - $2000/month in Bangkok. Assuming rent is $600/month I'm sure the remaining $900+$1400/month can cover all my expenses.
Hey, that’s great that you guys are cooking together and you enjoy it. I do not like to cook, and spending this amount on food for me as well within my finances.
@@LifewithSergyeah but aren’t you criticizing people for not eating healthy on a budget? Sorry pal… all those restaurants and food takeout spots are not healthy either. Not exactly a great argument 🤷♂️
Im retired military living in CM, this vid is really good. If youre living out if a backpack, sure you can do $500 or less, but living, is higher, we got a sweet condo with a gym, I usually get breakfast and dinner outside (vegan) i get up at 4am and go running
I wanted to come back and contribute more for Serg’s video. Price-gouging in Thailand has gotten severely out of control. The amount of exploitation amongst both Thai and foreign business owners has become outrageous, or that business wants to charge London prices while paying its workers sweatshop wages. Just recently I was down in Pattaya and stayed at the Hilton which had a whopping $350 USD a night attached to it. The moment of truth came when my room came attached with sparking water for a staggering 380 baht, or roughly $12 USD. And pattaya is not half as bad as Bangkok where margins can be raised as much as 1000%. Thailand is NOT an affordable destination anymore if you are seeking westernized name brands and amenities.
@@LifewithSerg sometimes it’s because of these extortionate taxes, but most times it’s because of the garbage foreigners in this country. Foreigners that want to run businesses and charge London price, but pay Thai prices themselves. It’s an ass-backwards Two-tiered system.
I own my own condo in Jomtien my basic monthly spend is never less than 60,000B .I agree the older condos were much better built ,the new condos with thin walls and ceilings can hear neighbors .thanks for honest living costs
I really do like that area. I’ve actually considered renting a second condo there just to be able to come down there and relax a couple times a month. I think it would be cheaper than paying for hotels each time. Thank you for sharing your costs, the comment section of this video is a treasure troll for anybody doing research on cost-of-living here.
I bought a cheap condo in Jomtien a few years ago. No rent to pay. Monthly management charges 800 baht utilities less than 200 baht a month. 5000 baht for food. 3000 baht for alcohol. Total 9000 baht a month = 268 $ . I cook fresh food at home every day purchased at Thai prices in the markets.
I am not a youtuber but a "retired" expat living in Thailand. For the past 5 years, I've been living in Bangkok on a $500 monthly budget. Yes, it is doable, but there a "catch". You need to be frugal/savvy/disciplined. Frugal doesn't mean living cheap and miserable. Actually, I live relaxed. I can meet you in person, invite you to my place (house) and show you exactly how it can be done then you try it and then share with your audience. Deal?
I have never seen a RUclips video explaining why Westerners can't live as cheaply as a Thai person. A Thai person earning 40,000 - 50,000 baht per month would be living a very reasonable middle class existence. A Westerner would not be. Obviously, no one would want to live on minimum wage 12,000 - 15,000 baht per month. What I don't understand is that Westerners living on 4 times the minimum wage, say 60,000 baht are hardly living the luxury lifestyle in Bangkok.
60,000 is nowhere near enough to live a luxury lifestyle. I think for a true luxury lifestyle in a city Lake Bangkok you would need to spend 200,000+ per month. Of course everyone has a different idea of luxury.
@@LifewithSergI just get the impression from RUclipsrs that local Thais are able to live a substantially better lifestyle than Western people on same money. I have never seen a RUclips video explaining why this is the case.
@somluck2813 I think it’s mainly because they are used to living this way. They’ve grown up living like this so for them it’s comfortable. Whereas most westerners are accustomed to a very different way of living. I think it’ll be the same case if you took anybody from one country and moved them to another, there are certain things that, some people will never be able to get used to.
@@somluck2813 Westerners want to go to bars and clubs, eat expensive Western food, want bigger living spaces and have to pay for their own medical costs, visas, travel expenses etc. Also, many Thais are heavily in debt.
Yep. you’re so correct. Lots of people just lie to themselves, and then they get angry when someone points out the fact that their numbers just do not add up.
In my experience a single room apartment in a good location will be around 15k-20k baht including electricity and water and a 2 bedroom around 30 k+. Food is around 500-1000 baht/day if you eat like a normal person (excluding alcohol). I don’t party but from my experience cocktails in bars are usually 200-500 baht each . you have to factor in transportation as well. Bangkok is not a walkable city so you have to spend quite a lot on taxis or buy a car if you stay longer which will cost you at least 700-800k for the cheaper options. Then come health insurance, internet etc. I believe the minimum 1500$ is realistic with 2000+ being better. Many Thai people live on 500$ or less but it is not necessarily a comfortable live but one out of necessity. Many of the RUclipsrs don’t even have proper visas and you often hear of people living on a tight budget running into some major troubles being it health problems or cost overruns.
I never said it was “beneath” us. I’m only saying that for most westerners it is not what they’re used to. There are wealthy people, and poor people, in every single country. Every society has different levels of income. I never put anyone down in this video
@LifewithSerg Correct you didn't. I put it in quotes as the tone of many comments. One person's luxury is another's just-getting-by. The only videos i have seen about these $500 condos are by young guys on insta chest puffing or guys doing basic cost of living video. Videos like these will always get the comment section humming!
$400-$600 per month?? Including rent, electric, water, Internet, cell phone, food, visa costs, medical insurance, entertainment, transportation, etc., I’m sorry, but there’s just no way that was possible for that amount of money unless you never left your room and lived like a beggar. Come on bro, let’s be honest here.
@@LifewithSerg I don't drink, I don't go to bars, I don't mess with bar girls. I lived in a building where I was the only foreigner. It's very easy to to
I'm from the US and have been living in Chonburi for the past 2 years. You're paying WAY more than I do. My monthly recurring expenses are so cheap it almost seems negligible. Now, I'm starting to spend more on Western food I've been craving. I'm consistently paying between $500-$700 on food and transportation, alone. I also have Starbucks delivered pretty regularly. You're being overcharged or are overspending because you're not familiar with the areas you visit.
I’m not being overcharged or unfamiliar. I’ve covered over 2/3 this country on seven different motorbike tours. I typically have one or two fine dining experiences every couple of weeks and I spend the amount that I do because my finances easily allow me to do it. That’s all. Thanks for sharing your numbers, it will help a lot of people reading the comment sections. Plus you can’t compare the cost of living in Chonburi to Bangkok. I’ve been to Chonburi dozens of time so I am very familiar with it.
@LifewithSerg it's funny that you aren't even open to that idea...but ok. However, there is a slight possibility, that you could be mistaken...I don't know. I wouldn't think I knew everything in a foreign country. That's just me though.
@Nader_61 I never said that I knew everything. Far from it. You’re just making assumptions because you think you know how I’m spending my money. This will be the equivalent of telling a multimillionaire celebrity that they can easily drive a Honda instead of a Ferrari. It just makes no sense. Have a good day!
@LifewithSerg I really hope you're enjoying your life. And I'm happy that you're paying the lovely Thai people so well. So many of them don't have opportunities outside of selling food. You're helping them create generational wealth. For that, Sir, I salute you!
Like anywhere in the world, how much it costs depends on what and where you want to live. One thing that is certain that however you live in Thailand will be substantially cheaper than the same lifestyle back in the West.
I love that you gave a realistic outlook on the cost of living in Thailand. I've been to Thailand for 3 months per year for 2 years and realized I can live comfortably at $1500 USD per month. You do see a lot of RUclipsrs who exaggerate the budget to push the algorithm to gain more engagement or get a product sold through their affiliate link. I'm not a big drinker, I don't smoke or get involved in the bar scene. I know not everyone can live like this without drinking but I've managed to eat healthy Thai dishes and live in the Lat Pharo area which is catered towards locals rather than tourists. As I get older I do realize that I would love to increase that budget to $2000 per month as I would have to factor in visa, savings, and traveling to other ASEAN countries. It is pretty hard to do that on $1500 USD per month but this is a benchmark to start off if you're young or on a budget.
I think you’re very much right about the budget. Of course it all depends on each person‘s lifestyle and finances, but I think in the area that you live $1500 per month should be really nice. I also agree that you can bump it up to about $2000 a month you’ll be able to do more. It’s always a question of wants versus needs. Thank you so much for your insight, I do appreciate it.
Haha I see my video thumbnail up there. An no.. I'm not lying and I know how to count. I used the low budget to invest maximally and focus myself on starting an online business. A very low cost of living is definitely very possible and it was an enjoyable experience. Luxury lifestyle? Definitely not.. but great for anyone who is looking to focus their energy and work. Cheers!
There was a reason that I covered everyone’s faces. As you probably noticed in this video, I didn’t throw any one person under the bus. I didn’t mention any RUclipsrs by name and just used the thumbnails for reference. Sounds like you had a good plan and it worked for you. That’s awesome!
@@LifewithSerg it’s all good. There is plenty of misleading stuff out there with claims of luxury living. For me that was an extreme austerity budget with some clear goals in mind. I think it’s only suitable for that mindset as well. Cheers
@thebangkokguide I did something similar and lived on a low budget while working remotely. Saved a lot of money and the more Thai lifestyle was great. This guy moved to Thailand but looks down on how most Thai people actually live. Hope you’re doing well and love the videos!
@@artair1 Yeah, it was a budget from 5 years ago from 2019, when the Thai baht was actually stronger than it currently is. That being said, prices have gone up somewhat and I'd probably add about 20% for inflation. In the video, I am very clear about all of this though. It was merely a base cost of living budget. To be honest, I don't think that this video is even discussing the same overall topic as the presenter focuses in on what constitutes a comfortable western lifestyle. My video was aimed at people aiming to focus on work and especially building an online business or hustle, which is exactly what I used it for.
I'm not in Bangkok, but Jomtien Beach, Pattaya. I live 400m from the beach and night market in an 8th floor ocean view 2 bdrm, 1 bath condo that is 64sqm. It has a gym and a swimming pool as well as a mini market. Its also on the baht bus line. We pay 19,000 baht per month for a year contract. For 2 of us, we spend about 26k baht per month. Including insurance, our monthly expenses are approx 75k baht and includes 9700 baht per month for travel. We also have home internet and phones and all the other things we need. Just sayin.
The great thing about Thailand is that you can make it suit your budget even if it is a small one .Your right about the older condos having been built stronger .I found that out when i tried to drill holes in a wall for shelving in a 30 year old Condo ,versus drilling holes in a brand new one .
This is the most HONEST, FACTUAL, VALUABLE video that anyone coming here should know. This is the real deal folks. I've been here 7-years and Serg is shooting 100/100 on this. If you have to learn by making your own mistake and can't learn from others, then have fun. However; if you are capable of logic and learning from others experience, watch this twice. Pure gold.
Thanks man! I tried to keep this video upbeat and lighthearted. I wasn’t going to start throwing any particular people under the bus, just wanted to share some more reasonable numbers.
Yes, he is absolutely right if you want to live in the "farang" area. However, it is possible to live well on a $500/month budget in Bangkok. I pay $300/month for rent, a 2BR duplex in a nice neighborhood, high ground (no flood) and not far from BTS. Everything I need is a few minutes from my house, market, shops, restaurants, bus, etc. A bunch of foreigners live in my area. One of them live with me in the same village/soi. Oh, it's very secure and safe. I really love it ❤
@@R-sn1ty I live in Saimai, near BTS Khu Khot Terminal. BTS from Khu-Khot to Mochit is 15 baht. To Chiang Wattana (immigration) is 41 baht. To Silom or Asok 62 baht. Everything I need is 15 minutes walk from home.
We bring our standards and food preferences with us. Anyone who traveled there this past summer will tell you they spent 30% more than in other summers, the service quality has decreased, the aftermath of COVID on hotel rooms is noticeable, and repairs on streets is in need. All of this translates into higher costs on everything. Lastly, there is simply not the kind of and number of tourists as before…it’s different.
If you stay out of the girly bars you can live in Bangkok comfortablly on $1,300 month. 50 sq meter apt 25,000 baht. groceries 9,000 baht utilities 3,400 baht.
I think 1500 would give you a little more breathing room. But just like you say, staying away from partying three or four nights a week and all the girly bars will make a huge difference.
I’ve been living in Bangkok since 2016. This one of very few realistic, honest, and useful videos about the cost of living in the Thai capital. $1,500/month (THB 49,000) is indeed a realistic bare budget to live in Bangkok as an adult.
Having lived there as an English teacher I couldn’t have done it on $500usd. Even $1000usd is difficult. My co teachers from other SE Asian countries could live on less and were paid less but none of us from Western countries could. Not only are the other Tubers doing it for clicks but they do a disservice to others with an unrealistic dream but they do Thailand a disservice by potentially causing an influx of folks thinking they can take advantage of the “lower cost” and doing a runner on their leases and utilities. A 30sqm condo gets quite claustrophobic pretty quickly.
Why can teachers other SE Asian countries live on less than teachers Western countries? Why are teachers from other SE Asian countries paid less than teachers from Western countries?
@@somluck2813 Teachers from other SE countries are used to a lower quality of life so don't mind living in squalor plus they aren't native speakers of English so are worth less to the schools.
I agree with you. 99% youtubers are lying about living in Bangkok for as low as $500. I was thinking about recording such a video as well, but good to see your eye-opener video. You justified your argument very nicely.
Thanks, I think it’s important to show the full picture. There’s too many people that buy this false rhetoric and are in for a big surprise when they move here.
All depends on the standard of your lifestyle. The minimum wage is about 10 euros a day, $300 a month. You need to adapt yourself to the local lifestyle, loging, food, transport etc. You are not working, so you can cook for yourself. For the price of a big mac you can buy 1kg of ground porc, for the price of a pizza, you have 2 chicken. For the price of cheapest bottle of wine you get 2 bottles of 40% rice alcohol. Since the end of covid, the price of fruits has more than doubled as the Chinese stopped the export. Locals pay less than $100 a month for a room with bath. Of course, if you come to Thailand as a paradise destination in important cities, you need to spend what a local couple with high wages do, $1500. If you go on live in less touristic areas, with much less.
Yes, one can adapt themselves to the local style of living. But unless you are here because of dire financial situation in your home country, I’m not sure why someone would want to move halfway around the world and live like that. Of course everything depends on the standard of lifestyle. The point of my video is that there is a lot of unrealistic claims being made. Many people who do research before they move here are led to believe that they can live like a king for 500 or $1000 a month, which just isn’t true. I’m not saying that you can’t live on those amounts, I’m just saying that you’re going to have a very basic lifestyle. Especially in Bangkok, which is where I mentioned this video was focused on. My reasons to Thailand had nothing to do with poor finances. I came here for a different experience in life, the culture, etc. So, at least in my case, I am definitely not willing to sacrifice my standard of living. Of course, the same lifestyle I had in the US costs me about 1/3 here so that was just an added bonus.
I'm in Thailand and I think I spend about 300 baht. a day just on stuff from the convenience store across the street. A realistic budget? $1600 a month, minimum.
I’m right there with you. I think I spent just as much at a convenience store almost on a daily basis. And at $1600, like both you and I have said, I think that’s a perfect sweet spot.
I think the youtubers should make it clear that they are talking about paying for a place or the actual cost of living , now when it comes to how to live , there is so many variables to choose from but also , your lifestyle and budget will determine how much your able to spend and save .... Visa costs is not part of a cost of living , cuz its a one time payment per the time you pay for and the costs can vary with different agencies as well as certain visas will be cheaper after the one time and there many visa options that are coming out .
Yes, but many people have to renew their visas every year and they only go through agencies. Many agencies will charge 30 or ฿40,000 every time you want to renew your retirement visa. So this is a big fallacy when people don’t factor this into the cost of living, because it most certainly is a part of the cost of living here.
@@LifewithSerg but its not a monthly cost unlike paying food, rent, transport and lifestyle that factors cost of living , thou I get what your saying , however with a retirement visa is 1 year and 3 months, after the first one , it costs less and with certain visas , its a one time payment like the 5year , the elite and a few others that you renew when the term is done , so when a visa , it really depends on the type , its not a one size fits the shoe situation .
@@LifewithSerg Many people don't use an agent to renew, your just creating drama for your content, but I get it, you/we also want watch time/views, etc Cheers well done.
I eat relatively healthy food (Som Tum, Pok Boong, etc.) for about half of the $1000 a month budget. Also, I find older buildings to be better built and quieter than those "luxury" condos.
I don’t really spend $1000 on food monthly. I would say realistically it’s in between $600-$800. As much as I enjoy Thai food, it is not tops on my list of cuisines that I like. At the end of the day, everyone has different lifestyles, budgets, and finances. I think, as long as One is happy with how they’re living their life, that’s all that matters.
My final remark has to be about theft and scams in Thailand. Within my first 6 months of living in Thailand, I was robbed/scammed out over $10,000 within multiple instances. Police will be of little to no assistance. Thieves in Thailand are not just reserved for the locals because the first person to scam me in Thailand was an American from Minnesota.
This is unfortunately, a sad reality. A lot of times people get scammed by their own kind, because there is an underlying common ground. I’m sorry to hear that that happened to you.
@@LifewithSerg last September, myself and 3 other parties were scammed for thousands of dollars on fake leases. The leasing agent was colluding with a building employee in a luxury high rise in Bangkok to show apartment, collect payment, and then the victims would later find out everything was a fraud. Even worse, we were all victim shamed by building management. Also, Thais can be pretty racist, but the foreigners are even worse. But thailand is still better than Europe or any western country, period.
EVEN IF YOU SAY $1000 USD A MONTH STILL CHEAPER THAN WESTERN COUNTRIES FOR SURE AMERICA 🇺🇸 RENTNG APARTMENT =$1000 USD A WEEK =4000 A MONTH ENGLAND 🇬🇧 RENTING APARTMENT $1500 POUND A WEEK = 6000 POUND GBP 🇬🇧 CANADA 🇨🇦 SAME ALL WESTERN COUNTRIES INCLUDING EUROPE 🇪🇺
England renting an apartment 1500 pound a week, where in London?? dont include all England in there.. I live in Manchester and I got my own 3 bedroom house and I pay 600 pounds a month in mortgage. And If you rent an apartment in the city centre is about 1200 to 1500 A MONTH not a week. London is not the whole of England
This is so true! While SEA in general is a *lot* less expensive than a North American or European-equivalent, it ain’t free! A western-middle-class-equivalent lifestyle in a major population center is going to cost $2-3k per month This applies in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam Sure you can spend less, or even a lot less - just pick your tradeoffs Those tradeoffs might feel perfectly acceptable, or they may not It comes down to your own comfort zone But ya know…. These costs run about 1/3 of what it costs for me in the US, so I’m *happy*
You are so right. A lot of people that are upset at this video are just lying to themselves on how much they truly spend. 1/3 is exactly the number I go by as well.
I understand we all have different finances. I enjoy fine dining and I can afford it. Having a strong financial planing background, I assure you I am living well within my means. Not that it matters. Have a great weekend.
@LifewithSerg I'm not saying it's a lot of money. Your video is about a realistic BUDGET for living in Thailand. You can eat very well and healthy in Thailand for less than $500/mo. If you are budgeting 1000/mo for food in Thailand then you shouldn't have to.worry about a budget....which is what this video is about. Thailand isn't cheap. But you can live well there on 2,000/mo. Most Thai people do. A GOOD job with the government in Thailand for Thai people pays about 1200/mo.
@LifewithSerg maybe you are specifically speaking of Bangkok salaries and maybe it's higher there. Honestly when I go to Thailand I spend as little time in BKK as possible. The air quality and traffic there are unbearable. Thailand outside of Bamgkok is better and more affordable.
👍🏻 totally agree with you on the poor quality. I’m staying in a 32 sqm and feels even tinier as the kitchen is separated, and I can hear my neighbor coughing, talking. Thankfully, they don’t make much noise at all, if anything I make more noise, but I haven’t had any complaints. I went to some condos in search of one to stay for longer term and I was shocked at how poorly some of them are holding up. A supposedly luxury condo with large units, like 60, 80 sqm and above, but the kitchen cabinet doors are all falling apart, the toilet completely discoloured, the elevator flooring and roof pieces broken and not fixed - both the units and the common areas are completely neglected. Then there’s airbnbs for trying out a place/area for short term - they are asking ridiculous prices. And then the prices on yearly leases are well above those from RUclipsrs too. Maybe they negotiated the price down aggressively or at the time was much cheaper, but Thailand really isn’t as cheap as the RUclipsrs make it out to be these days. I reckon my living expenses are actually higher than that from western world first tier city from a decade ago, while staying at a much lower quality place.
You can live cheaply here, but for most westerners, it would be a tough life. I think one person can easily live for about $1500 per month. Everyone has different earnings, budgets and expectations. Thank you very much for sharing your info.
I am an American Expat living in Udon Thani Thailand and I say it is affordable. Most of these videos are referring to Expat hotspots like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Hua Hin, etc. So to say Thailand as a general term is misleading.
This might sound like hate, but I’d be cautious with listening to guys built like this talking about “health”. Yea, street food isn’t the healthiest, but neither is burgers or pizza. Maybe mention what you eat too, so we can learn from actual examples of healthy food.
I completely understand what you’re saying. I am definitely not where I need to be with my health. I’m talking about ordering, clean grilled chicken, healthy salads with clean protein, and no sugar or any of that stuff added. I am overweight, I make no arguments against that.
I think that foreigners body are not use to dealing with street food that could be a little unsanitary or maybe a bit hesitant because of how it’s done very different here . The locals here are use to these food they grow up with them there body can fend off those little bits of bacteria but foreigners can’t that’s why they tend to get sick after eating our food . ( I’m a local and this is just my theory I don’t have any proof but I think it make sense 🤷♂️)
@gabbygab7003 I have absolutely no problem eating street food and definitely do it a couple of times a week. But just like you are used to eating that kind of food, those of us from other countries are used to eating other foods. While I enjoy street food. It’s not something that I want to consume on a daily basis. The main reasons being as I mentioned, the sugar, the salt, and the types of oils that are used to make this food. I’m not putting it down by any means, it’s quite delicious.
Serge, I have several condos for rent in Sukhumvit Suites, Sukhumvit Soi 13, which are all bigger than 50 sqm and 20.000 B or below. So if you look for one, in Nov. a newly renovated 60 sqm condo will be available for 19000 B. Just to let you know. 😉
All great information, thank you for this. One thing to consider though is that since you're just renting these "luxury" places you can move as soon as the upkeep starts going downhill. Since most of these places seem to be furnished there is little to pack if you downsize when you retire.
Good video Serg & agree with your comments .. I’m In northern bkk (Ratchayothin nr Chatuchak market) as you know , 25 mins on bts from Sukhumvit. Building about 20 yr old , quiet 🤫 too .. My condo is 50sqm 10,000b 😅 re food - 500baht p/day on average ..
For Thai people , if I wanna live in next to bts, Sukumvit downtown with rent, all total expend can't be less than 50,000 thai baht per month. You are right , 500usd is a joke! 🤣
@@LifewithSerg The downtown area is only interesting for new comers and those who work in the area. If you have no business there, after a while, you get sick of it. Sometimes, I don't go downtown for months.
@@BornBurmese Several US expats live in Siem Reap claiming quite comfortably - on about $800 - $1000 USD / mo. for essentials (!) - and - some extras ! Living alone somewhat frugal in a modest studio & don't drink (much) or smoke. ( 50 cent beers can be had ! ) There is cheap and healthy street food somewhat available over there if you look. 🤗
My mother-in-law has a place, the wife says $87/month usd. Close to University, major market, mall. is a studio apartment type. Not sure about utilities. No a/c. So, yes!!! You can do cheaper.
I’ve lived in Bangkok for over 8 years . I believe a minimum of 60,000 baht would be required to live a reasonable lifestyle ( including golf once a week ) plus Rabbit card costs , food , rent , electricity, wifi etc . That’s before you factor in a few beers and some “ entertainment “ costs if you’re a single man .
@@LifewithSerg Just for a bit of fun , here’s a normal 4 week period for me so anybody watching your excellent video ( and reading the comments ) can get a realistic view on life in Bangkok Rent is 13500 for a nice condo on Rama 4 , walking distance to Ekkamai BTS Electric is roughly 1700 with the AC on a lot . I have a fan but I think it just blows the warm air around lol Wifi is 1200 inc the True Movie tv package ( which I don’t really need ) BTS Rabbit card approx 1000 baht but it can vary , sometimes need to top up before the end of the 4th week I spend about 200 baht a week on water so 800 a month minimum Usual weekly shop ( Max Value , Topps or occasionally Villa Market ) 1600 so 6400 a month. Have daily costs for little things from 7/11 like a loaf , milk , yoghurt etc which adds on an additional 1000 a month Golf once a week at a decent course close to Bangkok : Green fee , caddy fee and ( usually cart ) approx 1600 . Caddy tip of a minimum of 600 baht , sometimes if she’s knowledgeable and good fun I will tip a bit more . Transport to and from Bangkok in a nice AC bus is 400 baht . Total for the day 2600 plus another 400 baht for water on the way round , a quick bite to eat at the end and usually 1 beer. So 3000 baht is a conservative cost , which equals 12,000 baht a month . Give or take a couple of thousand baht and that’s 40,000 before you’ve bought a beer , eaten out at W District, another similar type venue or a restaurant . In my case I have a long term girlfriend and she has 4 grandchildren under the age of 14 . So one monthly cinema visit for the 3 oldest ones plus take them to eat ( they love Shabu ) bumps up the cost again . Pocket money when I see them , 100 baht each to the 3 youngest , 200 to the oldest and there’s 500 gone lol . Another 2000 a month . So , 60,000 is the minimum I need to live a decent lifestyle here in Bangkok .
Serg most RUclipsrs lie to get views, click bait is rampant. If you do not have a minimum of $2,000 USD to live on per month in SE Asia, then you will not make it. You also need at least $25,000 in an emergency fund, more is better!!! We spend $2500 USD per month for my wife and I. We have a big investment portfolio, plus Canada pensions, we are more than fine, we could spend way more. We often travel to Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam. Try that on a budget of less than $2,000. We choose our accommodations very carefully, you generally get what you pay for. You are absolutely right about food, and quality of food and your health. Remember most people that have a low budget do not care about food quality, they either can't afford healthy food or literally do not care. Alcohol is the worst thing you can do to your body, that is the fastest way to bad health.
I couldn’t have said it better myself about the costs and the savings. Probably similar to you, I started planning for my retirement when I was in my late 20s. So many people have no idea where their money goes and spend wantonly.
@@LifewithSerg Yes, 100%, most have no idea how to manage money or plan for the future, then they want someone else to bail them out, and often criticize people that have been financially responsible, like we have done something wrong!!!
I’m so happy someone made a video about this topic. Your video is spot on. I really don’t like the new condos in bkk. I’ve been living here for three year. My budget is about 250k per month on a good month but I golf a lot. I never eat street food because of my sensitive stomach. I live in the phloen chit area where rent can be 100k on average
Part of the problem is that people think that anyone who moves to a country like Thailand is doing it because they’re in financial ruin. They miss the fact that there is plenty of people, like yourself, that did not move here with the sole purpose of saving money. Many of us just wanted a change of pace in our lives. It’s just unfortunate that throughout life, those that are miserable, would rather drag people down with them, then run with the winners.
I used to watch a weirdo youtuber called cheap charlie and he lived on about $400 per month. He lived in an absolute dump, ate noodles in his apartment and would buy beers and hang out on pattaya walking street.
I am not sure who that is, but yeah. There are lots of videos like that. And of course, that can be done, and some areas of Thailand. However, unless you’re in dire financial straits, that is just surviving and not really living.
@@LifewithSerg You don't know Cheap Charlie? He's pretty famous and used to sponge off an older Iranian guy. He was a drunk and lived a pitiful existence.
@JC-lu4se My favorite thing about him was his live chats and people watching him would call the store he was at saying he was a Russian spy or that he had mice in his backpack. I'd be in tears laughing at him being questioned by a store clerk or the police. The last time I saw him was a couple years ago and he was back in pattaya still getting good money from his live chats. They were only good when he'd get angry with a troll though. I'd mostly watch other channels who shortened his content to less than 10 minutes with the stupid highlights.
My friend live in 30y 50sqm 2 bedroom old condo at Payathai bts exit for 15000 baht (450Usd) You can get good food (low carbs and height protein)by cooking them at around 100baht (3Usd) per meal
I believe his cook at home costs are inflated. You should be able to have healthy meals, buying groceries and cooking at home - and manage with $500 a month for 2 people. Thanks.
Living in Pattaya the last two years. Been counting every daily receipt. Averaging 55,000 baht per month. This includes health insurance (Pacific Cross) and all other expenses such as rent, transportation, cell phone/internet, visa, etc. etc.
yeah, so you’re right around $1700 per month. And like I said towards the end, the video I think $1500-$2000 is the sweet spot. Sounds like you’ve built yourself a great life.
Your costs are high. You're spending more than I do on rent and food, yet I'm in Australia! You're living in a huge place and spending big on food. I don't spend as much as you when I'm visiting there and I could certainly spend even less if I lived there. The last dinner I had in Bangkok was about 125 baht. (About 100 baht for the meal and 25 baht for a drink.) Can be even cheaper if I go somewhere like Terminal 21 or Bangrak.
We all have different budgets and tastes. I didn’t move to Thailand to save money. You telling me how much you think I should spend is not a valid point. Since you don't know my finances, you have no base metrics to know my earnings to spending ratio.
He said that you can live cheap.. He said you can find cheap apartments ,but they wont be in the best locations or well kept. you can eat cheap, but your not going to be healthy, Yes he spends lots of money, but he has it to spend. People expecting to find a huge apartment, a block from bars and BTS isn't going to happen. He is trying to show reality, TANSTAAFL. So I have to ask, did you watch the Video?
@@elund408 The "not going to be healthy" part is rubbish too. There's tons of lovely, cheap fruit and vegetables in Thailand. A great deal more variety than we have here. But someone who lives like a king in a country whose cost of living and GDP is about 1/5 of here is unlikely to be a good source of information. (I guess your question is either rhetorical or plain stupid, as I wouldn't know what he spends if I didn't watch it, would I?)
@@Photojouralist123 There is cheap and there is frugal. I am frugal. I don't wast my money based on price but value. Fyi, I'm not poor and as a matter of fact, I don't have to work to be able to survive. I learned from how rich people live, not celebrities. Btw, I own a car and my rent is actually mortgage payment. Did you ever watch that youtube short of the British multimillionaire guy who went to the bank to borrow $5000? That's how I think... I spend the minimum cash to gain the maximum benefit. I never spend over a $100 on a lexurious hotel room, a room similar to the one where you spent $400/night. There is a problem though! If you like to show off, my lifestyle will be a torment to you, because I don't ive a damn what others think of me. I actually like it when people think I'm poor. They don't see ATM written on my forehead ;-)
The rule of thumb that I use is that whatever the style of living that you have in the US, you can have the same style of living for half that. Which means that if you want to live in Thailand for $500 a month you will have the same style of living as you had in the US for $1,000 a month which is a dismal living. The minimum income you can have to qualify for a retirement visa is about $1,800USD per month. Minimum. AFAIC that's where an expat should start. Anything less than that they are going so struggle.
You actually don’t have to have a minimum monthly income for a retirement visa. You need to have ฿800,000 in your bank account if you don’t want to show a monthly income I completely agree with you that if you want to have a similar lifestyle you’re gonna spend about 30 to 1/2 what you wouldn’t the US.
Spot on! My biggest surprise upon moving to Bangkok was the condo size-so many units feel like a hotel room. Happily, I found an adequate 2-bedroom condo at 52 sq m. Certainly not the long-term solution, as I could use double the size. The price is B29,000, which I think is a deal given the nearby BTS and shopping location. I make breakfast and eat out for lunch and/or dinner. I prefer restaurants where I can relax and get to know the cute staff (I'm on a mission to go to every shop in EM Sphere!). No street food, as sitting on a little plastic stool 2 meters from the public bus exhaust and motorbike noise doesn't appeal to me. So, absolutely, the budgets quoted by most RUclipsrs are way off base. Could I trim expenses? Sure, but just because I can doesn't mean I should.
You’re one of the few people that realizes that although we can live in poverty, doesn’t mean that we should. We all have different finances and budgets. Sounds like you’ve got a nice place, and you’ve got your whole situation down to science.
@@LifewithSergWatching all of those clickbait vids got me here with some definite misconceptions. I’m in Bangkok, but have also been to Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Phuket. If you stay in a decent larger room in a nice upscale hotel, you’re starting at a minimum $2000 Baht and up ($60k Baht per month). Yes, that’s more than you could get a nice condo for, but then you’re signing a long term lease, not something someone on a long vacation or an extended stay has the luxury of doing. Food? I’m not seeing all this world class cuisine people talk about. I see a lot of mysterious stuff floating in soup and vendors literally selling fried bugs and insects on the street. Just can’t do it. Even the Korean and Japanese BBQ can cost upwards of $30 USD, and I love the fact that these restaurants are charging customers to cook their own food!😅 The hotels I’ve stayed at charge $12 to $15 for breakfast. If you eat regular western food, like KFC, McD, BK, Subway or Taco Bell, for what I remember from back home, it’s MORE EXPENSIVE here than the US. Not complaining, I not only chose to come here but have remained here for a combined 5 months, plus I can afford it. I agree with you and just think the Tubers should be more realistic with the misguided scenarios they are giving people. I think you’re vid was spot on and appreciate the more realistic expectations that it gives people to be aware of what they getting into. Thanks for the helpful info. P.S. The USD has tanked about $15 per $100 exchanged in the over 2 months I’ve been here. $00 USD went from being worth over $3650 Baht to today it was $3220. That doesn’t even factor in the $220 Baht that all ATMs charge, or $6.70 USD. All in, you’re losing over $20 per $100 USD, with NO end in sight. People need to factor that in too when planning a trip here. Maybe an idea for an upcoming video? 🤔😁
@@ericrenfro4429 Many people want to believe they can live a irt cheap life here, and NOT give up any western luxuries. They don't like this being pointed out because it derails their own internal monologue about the true cost of living here as an expat. Thanks for the video idea!
@tapptom I know people who complain about living on $10,000 a month. Everyone has different expectations, budgets and expenses. There is no one size fits all.
Health Insurance can be very expensive especially for retirees. Americans over 65 have to start Medicare otherwise every year they delay starting the premiums go up by 10 percent. Also Medicare is basically useless and not usable overseas. Current Thailand health insurance companies while there are some good ones get very expensive for older folks and in many cases is not even available for people in their 70s. Current cheapest Medicare A and B Supplement is right at 185 USD a month. Many expats choose to self insure which is possible and very cheap if you need some minor routine issues fixed even broken bones, but will break you if you have a serious treatment needed. He is spot on about food, although a few days a week you can eat quite OK on some street food. Noodle soup is less than 50 baht. Fried rice dishes at some local places with shrimp or chicken which have a smattering of vegetables onions, garlic, tomato pieces will set you back 120 baht for quality.
Even for younger people, Medical Insurance is important because a lot of them that come to this country. Don’t exactly have good finances. A simple trip to a hospital can set them back many many months. And yes, it is difficult to get Medical Insurance here once you get older, no doubt about that. You brought up some very valid points, thank you so much for sharing.
You can opt out of Medicare payments if you live abroad. I did when I started collecting SS here in Sweden, but then I get coverage here and never plan on returning to the US. But isn't Medicare about $180 a month? Then you still pay a lot out of pocket anyway in the US. One doctor's visit for my brother is $150 co-pay.
Dude, We have a 33 sq mt condo in IDEO2. 9500 baht a month, walls aren't paper thin, none of the negative stuff you are talking about. Talk about lying RUclipsrs..............
@@stevereeve1 The point is that most westerners will not be happy living in a tiny place way out of the city center eating street food all day. Which is what 500 USD a month will get you, if even that.
And the viewers should know that these prices are for minimum 1 year leases. Not for 60 day visa travelers. A decent 30 day Airbnb is $1000 to 2000 per month in a nice area near a BTS station. But if you got the money, Bangkok is the best!!!
Yeah, many people are just clueless about where they stand financially. Unfortunately, financial literacy is not something that is taught in almost any school.
well i was living there for 6 month it is possible, 350€ for my appartment maybe 20€ for electricity bill, then 150€ for food and transportation if i wanted to go see friends and also go to school. I didnt have much money to go out much and everything😂😂 honestly it is possible but only if you stay in your house many days in a month and not go out everyday and eat out
I think the heading of this video is "It's hard to live in Bangkok for $500". I think you raise some valid points, but at the same time, you also give examples of how you can live on $500. For example, your friend is paying ~$200mo on rent, living on street food for $1-$2 per meal (or $5-$6 day, or $150/mo; and that doesn't mean you can cook vegetables at home), health to $30/mo to public hospitals, $100 visa, and $20 internet. I'm not sure who thinks they can live well on $500 in a major international city. So yes, you can live on $500 in Bangkok, but it's not going to be great.
@@LifewithSerg I think if someone has a $500 budget, they are going to be living an upgrade in Thailand, and even in a big city like Bangkok. $500 in the US or Canada would be basically living on the streets, unless they are working to supplement their budget (vs in Bangkok, they are essentially retired/not working, or working under the table to supplement their budget).
finally someone telling the truth that's actually boots on the ground. new sub. traveling to thailand next year doing the research. learning the culture and language. great information
I think it’s so smart of you to come out here and do some research before committing. There are things that you would like, and there are things you won’t like. I wish you the very best and thanks for joining the team.
As an American having first coming to Thailand in 1969 with a back pack when I could buy a huge plate of fried rice that made a meal alone for 15 cents (the baht then 20 to the dollar) today a very small portion costs $1.20. A huge bowel of noodle soup that also made a full meal for a 23 year old American cost 15 cents. Rented a 2 story house across the river from the palace for $20 a month. Having spent more of my life since I was 23 in Thailand than America I have learned to live a decent life in Thailand at 78. I am married to a Thai who is a medical professional with a monthly salary over $5,000 a month I receive $2,000 a month Social Security and we don't live much better than if we lived in America. We don't eat out much since we prefer to cook and eat at home. We shop at MECRO for groceries. We own our own home that you would call middle class, my wife drives a Mazda and I drive a pickup. Our biggest expense is our 17 year old son that goes to a private school near our home. Shopping trips are a weekend in Bangkok every 3 or 4 months where we my spend $400 for hotels restaurants and shopping and fuel for the 160 km drive. Most reasons to come to Bangkok are embassy related. In other words we live much like we did in America 15 years ago. Only real benefit we have that most foreigners don't have is my wifes job provids almost free medical care should we need it. To summerize our life style on $70k a year is, we don't live a life of luxury, now vac😢ations to Europe, although we did go to Malaysia and Saigon. Vietnam (where I was stationed during the war 1967-68). We manage to save 15% that we know we will need as our son goes to college in Bangkok. Or the whole world economies collapse we will be able to maintain our lifestyle. I wish that those who think that coming to Thailand at this time in econmic history my regret coming to Thailand if there is an economic collapse, pensions and Social Security will be worthless and not being with family and friends may turn into a living hell if you come to Thailand. Keep in mind Thailand has a very limited welfare system, thats why they want the $20,000 in a Thai bank account for a retirement visa.
I wish more people understood this. There’s a lot of folks that moved to Thailand that couldn’t manage their finances in their home country, so naturally they cannot manage them here.
@@kennetharntson5912 With your income you say that you don't live a life of luxury? I would say, that kind of income is more than enough to live like a king. Double of what I have and I can't say I'm poor. I still manage to save 30% of my income each month, without any problem.
@SjaakSchulteis You must not live in Thailand. There is a higher percentage of Thais that are multiple millionaires than in America. Those are the people that live like kings. Just stand on the streets and count the number of BMWs and Merced ought to tell you something. I don't live like a king. Maybe because I am not a businessman. I worked as a construction manager for major oil companies. My projects had millions of dollars budgets but I was not paid millions. However, while working on a remote project in a jungle or a desert that lasted 2 or 3 years the oil company provided me housing, food, transportation. Since the projects were remote there were no place to spend money. Staying on site 3 to 4 months and single at 51 allowed alot of my tax free salary to stay in the bank. So I could problem live like a king. However, I was managing a 1.8 billion project in Thailand in 1997 when the Thai economy collapsed, I saw a lot of kings that lot everything because they lived on credit. I didn't and my life went on with few changes. Seems the whole world will be going through what Thailand went in 1997. Pretty sure me and my family will be just fine
Now THAT was refreshing! Amazing vid man. I'm here for the alternative perspectives and this didn't disappoint. I'll be there in about a month looking for a place for my parents to retire. We love Bangkok but are focusing more on Pattaya precisely because we didn't have much luck finding the older, larger condos in Bangkok. 140+ m² sounds like a dream. We were looking more in the 90m² to 110m² range (for budget reasons) for a 2br/2bth. You have given us hope these places exist. No lush co-working spaces, saunas or golf simulators necessary, just a pool, gym in well maintained building. Modern common areas and furnishings are a big plus. I'm I love the idea of a solid older building thats gone through a renovation in the kast 10 years. That would be ideal! I'm new to your videos so tell me, did you work with an agent to find your place? Were there lot's to choose from? Any Insight or links to resources would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for this content and reading this long response.
A good agent certainly helps. The best way is to pick neighborhoods you’d want to live in and just go walk them to look at buildings. There are TONS of older condo buildings here. Once you do some research doing this, you will see what suits you.
You are spot on Serg most off the u tubers don’t have class and are used to basic standard off living rent is the main expense so thank for bringing the real truth the bloggers have relocated to Thailand mist off them in the last 5 years so allways paint a rosy picture how things are so cheap
Glad you enjoyed this video. It’s certainly possible to live here cheaply, but I think a lot of people represent unrealistic living conditions. Most westerners that move to countries like this do not want to considerably degrade their lifestyles.
I think everyone should get health insurance. Especially since Thailand has the second highest traffic fatalities in the world. There is very little regard for safety in this country.
My buddy @peteonretreat did a comparison vid from his last year's budget by himself there on Pratnumak Hill to now, with a girlfriend. Basically, your budget in the city will be $2,000 u.s. or more depending on your lifestyle, etc. If you want to do nothing but sit, read, watch, you can do it cheaper. But...I ain't doing THAT. Thing is...I just don't know where I want to be.
I think you can do it for as little as $1500. $2000 will make it quite comfortable. Everyone has different expenses, finances and expectations. So it’s really impossible to lay a flat number out that will work for everyone. A lot of it is just going to be by trial and error for you. Best of luck!
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Rent, elec, water $300. Food $200. Who is lying? It's easily doable, in fact you could slash rent in half but then you would really be living like a Thai.
Of course you can live like a Thai person. And I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with that. My point is that majority of Westerners, unless they moved here because they were totally broke, would not want to live the average Thai lifestyle. That’s all.
great vid. love the upgrade
Thanks for posting finally someone tells the truth. Been here 15 years retired bought my condo in Thonglor yea high end area. My area my building older condo rent for studio is 15000.
@@jackjackal1768if you come out with just the clothes on your back, sure you can scumbag some rent
I am Thai and I don't like when any foreigner do a VDO about how cheap the cost of living here. It likes they are portraying only 1/5 of the truth just to do a clickbait. And I couldn't help wonder if they are affiliated with some business and get some endorsing money in return?
Well, we have pretty much all price range of service to offer but mostly quality comes with higher price.
Anyway, thanks for sharing your experience here. People like you are the one I feel we should welcome. The ones who came with no intention to exploit our country. Keep up doing your good work.
I really appreciate that from you, especially since you are a local. I completely understand why you’re not happy how many people portray this country as very cheap.
@@chanyajaranyanonta1818 agree 100%, I am foreigner but that’s very well said.
They're kids grifting on RUclips to extend their travels.
No-one is exploiting your country. Tourists bring money TO you country, not exploiting your country. This is especially valuable for Thailand as a larger share of its GDP comes from tourists compared to many other countries . . . So, no more saying people are exploiting you. Thailand is getting money from tourism.
Well said and very true. I don't like it either, because they come underprepared.
Living on $500-$600 a month in Thailand is achievable but comes with significant compromises. This budget typically suits a small city or provincial lifestyle, living much like an average local. However, most foreigners struggle with this due to the lack of amenities and the difficulty of covering only basic needs. It's essential to have extra funds set aside for emergencies and unforeseen expenses. Believing you can live like royalty on a shoestring budget is unrealistic. The real goal is to enjoy more life for less money, without unnecessary drama. The aim isn't just to survive but to truly thrive in the Land of Smiles.
I've watched hundreds of yt videos about Thailand and not 1 person has EVER said you can live there for $500. $500 will cover the rent in a nice place but nothing else.
Those videos are definitely out there.
Yes they are and I've seen plenty of them. They're all over Tik Tok too.
Same never heard anyone say that. Most say 2k a month is plenty my Thai friend also confirms this.
I've seen many for the Phillipines but none for Thailand.
I mean, after all, the only Thai videos I watch would be: Life with Serg😊👍🏽
Clickbait
I just watched the whole video, and I found everything you mentioned to be very subjective. I live in a country that's 40% more expensive than Thailand, and we spend about $500 a month on food-$250 for groceries and $250 for dining out. This includes cooking 2 to 3 meals a day at home and eating out for around 15 meals a month. We don’t eat street food; we prefer Western cuisine when we dine out.
Spending $1,000 by yourself on food in Thailand is a lot of money-you must eat a lot! I can guarantee that where my partner and I go out, it's never at hole-in-the-wall places. Based on my experience in a more expensive country, I know you can eat well for much less than what you mentioned, without relying on street food.
Additionally, I haven’t seen anyone claiming they can live in Thailand for $500 a month. Most people suggest it’s around $1,000, which is also subjective. It seems like you made this video for the same reason you say others create videos about living on a $500 budget: for clickbait.
I probably spent closer to $15-$20 a day in all honesty. I’m talking about an average because there are days when I might go and have a really nice meal. I don’t cook, and buying healthy food is not cheap. That is the same in any country. Everyone has different budgets and finances so there is no one size fits all. I’m just sharing my own experiences. At the end of the day I think $1500-$2000 is really the sweet spot for a single person living in a big city like Bangkok. Of course, if you start going out partying and drinking all the time that number can easily go up Significantly. Thank you for sharing your cost for everyone to see. The comment section of this video is a treasure trove for anyone that wants to find out what kind of costs expats have here in Thailand.
@@LifewithSerg I completely agree with everything you mentioned! I just haven’t come across anyone claiming to live on $500 a month in Thailand. I’m really lucky to have a Colombian wife who’s an amazing cook and great with finances-that definitely helps stretch our budget! By the way, I’m in Brazil, in the city of Fortaleza. It’s similar to some parts of Thailand, just not as cheap or safe. Good work, by the way!
You spend most of your income eating? Gross.
You've not seen anyone making videos claiming "living on a $500 budget:"? In the first line of the video below, they say live like royalty for $100 a week:
ruclips.net/video/e9B42T5rk5o/видео.html
Below is the video's title and videos like this, are all over you tube;
'20 Low-Cost Countries Where $100 a Week Covers Everything"
Thailand and the country i live in (Cambodia) aren't listed in this one. But people know they are cheaper places to live and are listed in most videos claiming ridiculously cheap places to live. The only people I know who live that cheap are the locals and they aren't particularly happy about it. If westerners are forced to live for any length of time on a budget like that. They get a loan from some one and fly back to their country of origin. So $100 a week to live like royalty, it certainly is not.
@@martinherald6492 You just sent me an AI-generated video 9 days ago, but this discussion was over a month ago and was about RUclipsrs, not AI. I stand by what I said-there are not RUclipsrs claiming you can live off $500 a month.
Yes, absolutely, I agree. I moved down to Bangkok from Florida. Bought a condo to cut down my expenses. My social security income is not much $750 after detection. Bought washer and dryer. Water filter under the sink. Transportation only busses. Cook my own. Pay money unnecessary renewal retirement visa (agents)
It's hard to manage it. But I'm happy. Nice people Nice country.
I never eat on side walks street food. Don't know how they keep maintaining temperature, fine dust vehicles dark smoke.....
Sounds like you figured out a good way to live here. Congratulations on your retirement.
Detection??
@@MaryAustin-cx7dm deduction, I think.
Straight up info. Happy you’re out of the US and making it on $750. I’m making my way out from So. Cal. between 2027 and 2028. Very encouraging. 👊🏼
Good for you. There aren't many places in the world where you can live nowadays on $750 a month. PS, what deductions on SS? If you're paying for Medicare while living abroad, that makes no sense as you are not using it. I believe it's something like $180 a month? I opted out. I am certainly not flying back to the US for medical care when I can get the same or better abroad.
You can live comfortably on $1200 to $1500 a month in places near Pattaya (further south the cheaper it gets like Jomtien, Bang Saray etc...) or Hua Hin Cha-Am, if single and probably $2000 as a couple. That's insurance, rent, food, utilities, transport and miscellaneous. Scrap that if you are a drinker. My girlfriend and I don't really drink. Bangkok adds a good 15% to 20% to expenses. With the recent strengthening baht, you can add at least 10% to this
Thanks for sharing your expenses. The comment section of this video is really a treasure trove for anyone looking to move here and to find true costs.
No offense, but calling this "live comfortably" is for your style; I need to double your cost figure and to call it "comfortable" would be a stretch. But your comment is why this subject is a bit tricky: what works for one may not for another.
wrong. Comfortable is not less than 3000
@@fwnm No you are wrong and probably just want to mislead people so they don't come or you are bad with money.
@@fwnm $1500 is comfortable for a single person in a decent apartment in bangkok.
I prefer older condos because they are spacious, solid, thick wall, and well maintained. I am paying only 8,000 baht a month for a BIG studio with gym, pool, and big balcony. 24 hr security.
I love it ! 👍🏽
I agree with you on olde condos. Much better built it seems than many of these new cardboard wall buildings.
BKK? what part?
??? 8000 not in BKK right?
@@regnorse In Pattaya
@@charlesmassaquoi6717 cool is it good enough to buy? which area is it
A bit of perspective goes a long way! We are bombarded with the perception of cheap luxury living in Thailand which can land people in trouble. Well done Serg. 😊
I sure stirred up a hornets nest
@LifewithSerg looks like it but maybe that's a good thing! 👍
in all fairness, it is exceptionally cheap luxury living.
These are young kids that come over here. They take a tiny condo way out from Central Bangkok eat street food or 711 every day and make their Vlogs. They have no intentions of living here full-time and therefore no need to mention all of the other necessary expenses that are required when one actually lives here.
I think you really nailed it on the head. Your observations are very much my thoughts as well.
I agree 💯%.
I asked two RUclipsrs living in Thailand about the new tax laws for Expats.
They had no idea what I was talking about.
Their not concerned about it. Their just there for views and to build their channel showing their half naked bar girlfriends.
@@roberttaylor9628 cuz they don't pay, never will nor intend to pay tax here most creators still use their home country for taxes, international payment structures and claim not to 'work' here but promote it as 'iving' here. If viewers can't see that contradiction then it's their own mistake
Only a kid would take them seriously. I'm 2 generations older than them so I wouldn't even give them the time of day in terms of their "advice".
RUclipsrs also keep themselves occupied working on their channel where a 'normal' person will have to fill those hours and that costs money.
Good that you are exposing the liars. You bring up many good points. Another thing they will need to account for is the cost of visa runs. People who want to spend only $500 a month will not be on the expensive visas or a retirement visa. I haven't watched a channel that claims a person can live on $500 a month, but even I know that is impossible.
There are some shady passport Bros that make these kind of videos. I didn’t even mention things like housecleaning services, dental appointments, and a lot of other things that a lot of these mathematically challenged people fail to bring up. Can you live in Thailand on $500 a month? Of course you can. But not in Bangkok, and it would be survival mode, and not really enjoyable for most people.
@@LifewithSerg Their target audience are naive men who think they will be dating a 10 and live like a king. It's pretty sad to hear this. I hope that you do more tips. I didn't think about living in an older building because I wanted updated security. I may need to consider the paper thin walls. There are many videos about expats in the Philippines running out of money really fast. I wonder why there isn't more Thailand content about that.
@ The building I live in right now is quite old, but it is in impeccable condition because it is owned by one family. There’s definitely been quite a bit of blowback in the comment section of this video, mostly by people that I think have been lying to themselves about their true cost-of-living here. The general consensus is that most of the foreigners that move to places like Thailand or Vietnam or the Philippines are doing solely because they cannot afford to live in their own country. They forget that some of us are doing it because we want a different experience. I moved here simply because I wanted a different experience in life but I enjoy my western comforts. I never planned to live here indefinitely. I might stay another 3, 5, 10 years or forever. I just don’t have any concrete decision yet. I think I will make some more videos like this. The people that are going to get angry at the hard truth or people that would get angry and upset with things anyways, I can’t control their emotions nor am I responsible for them. I simply share my experiences and thoughts on this channel. I realize that will not please everyone, and I’m completely fine with that. I would definitely you to look at some older buildings. If you have a simple question, feel free to reach out to me via Instagram.
I'm a cheap Charlie, so I can hit those numbers, sometimes over like 600 dollars but not often. However I do agree with you, most people can not do what I can do. I lived in a 28 square feet condo in Bangkok, costing 260 dollars and only 10 minutes away from bts. I then proceed to eat Thai food and take BTS 95 percent of the time. Even McDonalds and kfc is cheap.
This life is boring for most people but I love it, I don't need to spend much to be happy. walking in parks, being in shopping centers, reading my kindle, sometimes taking a laptop and drinking bubble tea makes me happy. I met my friends in cheap food courts and have a chat and that would be a day. I guess everyone is different. Not everyone would like me as a friend because I'm cheap, but that's also ok, it doesn't bother me.
It sounds like you figured out a wonderful life for yourself. Also, I think living a frugal life is a good way to go. I don’t think anyone would not want to be friends with you because of your lifestyle, I hope you really don’t believe that.
Sounds like you have a wonderful and peaceful life, I would not call it boring at all. Do what makes you happy my friend 😊
@@LifewithSerg that happens though lol. I normally hang around cheap Charlies myself hehehe
@fearless6947 I would always encourage everyone to surround themselves with a variety of people. I try to surround myself with people who are more successful and better than I am. And I’m not just talking about monetarily. I just feel that. I personally learn a lot from those people. at the same time, I have a lot of Thai friends who are struggling in several areas of their life. I’m always happy to assist them give them advice and do whatever I can to help them. At the end of the day, it’s not about how much money someone has, it’s about their character, their personality, and, how they treat other people. Again, I applaud you, as I think you were living a very happy life, and that’s all that matters.
It's easily possible to live on 30k THB/mth, even in BKK. There are thousands of teachers with a monthly salary of around 30k-35k THB.
It depends on the budgeting as well as priorities of 😊
I certainly think that is very doable. I have several Thai friends who live on a lot less than 30,000 per month. Everyone has different budgets and finances. My point with this video was to take aim with people claiming that luxury condos are only $500 a month, and the others who are claiming that it’s, easy to live in Bangkok on $500 a month total.
@@LifewithSerg yep, it always depends on the budgeting and priorities.
If we search long enough one may find a nice apartment for 10k-15k, but most certainly not on Sukhumvit 😁
Im Korean and managing one month living schedule in Bangkok on November this week.
I think i need to rebudget my bucket-list after watching your video !!
Thanks for honest review ! It was really helping :)
There’s definitely ways you can do things cheaper and more expensive. So do some research and you should be able to set up a realistic budget. Enjoy!
Koreans are very popular here right now with Cullen Hateberry. You don't have to live in Bangkok. There are lots of great places to live where you won't have to re-budget as much. Or, of course if BKK is your dream than that is cool too. Most of the Koreans here come to escape the city life. Isan can be great.
why is there wo many koreans everywhere ( Vietnam the Philipiines, Thailand, ) your country in't even that big what is going on lol
Philippines RUclipsrs do the same thing. Rent is cheap enough, though. Here in the Philippines, I'm renting a two-story house in a nice subdivision for about $306.
Wow! That sounds like an absolute bargain!
ถูกครับ ใช้จ่าย500เหรียญ/ต่อเดือนใจกลางเมืองเป็นเรื่องยาก นอกจากจะอยู่ชานเมืองหรือจังหวัดรอบๆกรุงเทพ หมู่บ้านผม(จังหวัดติดกรุงเทพ)มีต่างชาติมาเช่าห้องอยู่1500บาท/เดือน(มีแค่ร้านของชำใต้ตึกกับเครื่องซักผ้าหยอดเหรียญ)500เหรียญus/เดือนอยู่ได้สบายๆ และก็ถือว่าเป็นหมู่บ้านที่สะดวกสบาย มี7-11 7แห่ง ตลาดและอื่นๆ ใกล้ห้าง โรงพยาบาล โรงเรียน มหาวิทยาลัย
Yes, many Thai people live on $500 a month. It is very achievable. I’m just saying that for most westerners it would be a very difficult lifestyle based on what they are used to.
@@LifewithSerg คุณทำได้ดี ที่ขยายความเพื่อให้ผู้คนเข้าใจได้อย่างถูกต้อง ประเทศไทยยังมีหลายสิ่งที่ต้องปรับปรุง ผมเชื่อว่าเราจะทำให้มันดีขึ้นได้ ผมชอบการเดินทางของคุณ
Not only street food contains sugar, salt and MSG. The only reason people say that street food uses these is that they can see the cook at work. You don't get to see what goes on in a closed kitchen. Plenty of 'normal' restaurants use all three, in abundance. The all popular 7/11 is a haven for processed carbohydrates, sugar, salt and no end of other additives.
You are absolutely right. Especially here in Thailand. MSG is in almost everything. There is typically copious amounts of salt and sugar in almost every dish here.
and who cares --- eat what i want -
@@nexusbob it's just a statement of fact @nexusbob. Nobody is asking you to eat or not eat anything.
Loved your video Serge, truthful, interesting and engaging, not like all the other clickbait I've seen.
Happy to know you found it useful!
I agree with most of it, but I’m currently renting a 34 sqm apartment on the 43rd floor at Life Asoke Rama 9 for only 20k baht a month. Before this, I rented an Edge condo in Sukhumvit for just 25k. Both are luxury condos in perfect condition
I lived at the edge for a year and a half. I really like the condo but I was on the 35th floor. I still wouldn’t call it a luxury condo building. I paid the exact same you did for 32 m² unit I don’t live in a luxury condo building anymore. I live in a nice older high-rise, but the walls are ridiculously thick, and I have much more space. The edge, like many of these condos, was notorious for not always having the air-conditioning on in the lobby, and leaving lights off in the hallways. Next time you walk down one of your hallways notice only about half the lights are turned on. But that management group I believe is called Plus+, and they did an excellent job of cleaning and keeping the place tidy
Do either of you experience these two places provide furniture? If so, what’s the quality? I’ve learned of the furnishings being cheap. Maybe not the right word. Perhaps low quality. Thank you, JM
The building might appear luxurious (especially to westerners), but living in a 34 sqm apartment is obviously anything but luxurious, no matter how nice the amenities.
@shle20 I think a lot of people are missing this exact point. By most western standards, this will be a very small space for most people. It’s absolutely doable, there’s no question about that. It just depends where wants to allocate their finances.
On what website did you find your condo? I don't know where to look.
Spot on info, our experiences dovetail. I sent this to a few friends because you nailed it.
I’m very happy to know that this video is resonating with so many people in a positive positive way. I tried to present information and a lighthearted way not to throw anyone under the bus. Glad you enjoyed it.
Wow Serg!!! 🤣 What a comphrensive video! Finally someone tells the truth!!! My wife and I loved this and 100% agree. You hit all the points, from square meters, thin walls, amenities that if you will use, it will be crowded, to even the visa costs! I have lived in Bangkok for 2 years now and so there have been so many growing pains that I wish I knew before. We live in a luxury skyrise condo build in the 90s, in the Pathumwan (Siam) area, next to Lumphini park. It's 154 Square Meters, has a gym, racquet ball court, and pool. We pay 32k THB a month, but that's because the lease on the land expires in 3 years, so rent is cheap.
Overall, we spend $3k USD a month, although that cost is rising as THB has been gaining like crazy against the USD. One thing you forgot to mention, electricity costs are high here in Bangkok. For us foreigners that love air conditioning, those costs can be quite a bit, as we spend around 6k THB a month.
I grow so tired of the trendy youtubers and instagrammers posting the amenities of LiFe Asok or Ashton, and then saying all this for $500! But they don't show the shoebox condo that you actually will live in! Thank you for telling the truth! And the food costs... don't get me started! I blew my budget out of the water when it came to food! Yes, economies of scale is a thing. It's cheaper to eat out instead of cooking, even if you shop at Makro.
Also... the line of living with 3 sick buffalo... can you say lol? 🤣🤣🤣
I’m glad you enjoyed my video. Many of the people making those $500 type videos, lack a basic financial education. AND.. it’s not really their fault. Financial planning and budgeting is something very few people are taught correctly. I am by no means an expert at it. The majority of the comments this video have been very positive from people that understand basic economics. Thank you very much for sharing that information. I absolutely love Lumpini Park, and would love to live near it.
LOL who lives in a 1650 sq foot condo in the center of bkk. Of course electricity will be expensive there, cooling down a huge condo. My place in Canada is like half that and feels too big. What's worse, the people who claim to live on 500 a month or those who live completely opposite to a thai lifestyle?
@CommoditySC a guy who can afford it. You do realize that not everyone that moves to Thailand does it because they’re broke, right?
@@LifewithSerg Of course but whats the point in a place that big. Rather retire earlier, and live in something normal than late and splurge on nonsense that doesn't make you any more happy. Or donate money to those in need if im already old.
I personally know people who live on $300 to $400 a month, ok not in Bangkok but it can be done. It’s all depends on your life style. Just as I know others who live on $2000 to $3000 a month, it all comes down to your life style.
Yes, of course it can be done. My point is that a lot of these RUclipsrs are just misleading people for views. Then those suckers come here and realize that a life on $500 a month is pretty miserable compared to what they’re used to in their western home.
Living on less than $2,000/month is a lie.
Promoting $500-$1,000/month is a hate crime!
Lollll. I think as a Westerner living on under $1000 a month is going to be miserable for most people.
Easily live for less than £600/mth in Chiang mai everything covered.
Somtam thai is delicious and highly nutritious and very healthy for you..... Leave off the alcohol.
Look at Smith Residence in Chiang Mai.
@rboot1621 i’m not saying that you can’t live on that kind of a budget, I’m saying that for the majority of westerners it will come with a greatly diminished lifestyle. I’m glad you’re able to make it work at that amount.
Single person living on less than $2K is so common.
@@BO-mb8rr If I can live on $3000/month in an expensive major US city there's no doubt in my mind I can live on $1500/month - $2000/month in Bangkok. Assuming rent is $600/month I'm sure the remaining $900+$1400/month can cover all my expenses.
Condo : 180$
Transportation : 40$
Food : 120$
Mobile : 5$
Activities : 45$
==> 410$
(I spent 1300$ in 3 months in 2023 so yes, that's close)
Great! Thanks for the info.
35K Baht on food?? 😮 Me and my gf just cook together. Healthy and clean. About 200 Baht for two persons per day.
Hey, that’s great that you guys are cooking together and you enjoy it. I do not like to cook, and spending this amount on food for me as well within my finances.
@@LifewithSergyeah but aren’t you criticizing people for not eating healthy on a budget? Sorry pal… all those restaurants and food takeout spots are not healthy either. Not exactly a great argument 🤷♂️
it's insane. I couldn't spend that much per day on food here in Australia...
@crazyg74 i’m spending between 10 and $30 a day on food. That is not an outrageous amount at all.
@@LifewithSerg 35k is $30 a day… everyday. So are you lying or you just can’t count like the other RUclipsrs? 🤷♂️
Im retired military living in CM, this vid is really good. If youre living out if a backpack, sure you can do $500 or less, but living, is higher, we got a sweet condo with a gym, I usually get breakfast and dinner outside (vegan) i get up at 4am and go running
I'm glad you're enjoying life in CM! You're living the dream! 😎
@@LifewithSerg dream small, live big, and hit the water park
Proud of your honest courage to speak out! 🐻 roars
Piggy knows best.
You're not going to be invited to the next Bangkok Tube meet up 🤣🤣🤣
I wanted to come back and contribute more for Serg’s video. Price-gouging in Thailand has gotten severely out of control. The amount of exploitation amongst both Thai and foreign business owners has become outrageous, or that business wants to charge London prices while paying its workers sweatshop wages. Just recently I was down in Pattaya and stayed at the Hilton which had a whopping $350 USD a night attached to it. The moment of truth came when my room came attached with sparking water for a staggering 380 baht, or roughly $12 USD. And pattaya is not half as bad as Bangkok where margins can be raised as much as 1000%. Thailand is NOT an affordable destination anymore if you are seeking westernized name brands and amenities.
There are quite a few things here that are much more expensive than in many western countries. Totally agree.
@@LifewithSerg sometimes it’s because of these extortionate taxes, but most times it’s because of the garbage foreigners in this country. Foreigners that want to run businesses and charge London price, but pay Thai prices themselves. It’s an ass-backwards Two-tiered system.
Short awnser: They're lying for clicks and money. End of story.
Exactly!
@@LifewithSerg Thank you for being honest and pointing it out!
@@stevereeve1😂yes definitely
@@arkadiusw.897 disagree They are happy You guys are just jaded and cynical. Pethaps jealous.
Yes you can live for 500 dollars a month in Thailand. Go to the North East .💯👍🙏💰💰💰💰
I own my own condo in Jomtien my basic monthly spend is never less than 60,000B .I agree the older condos were much better built ,the new condos with thin walls and ceilings can hear neighbors .thanks for honest living costs
I really do like that area. I’ve actually considered renting a second condo there just to be able to come down there and relax a couple times a month. I think it would be cheaper than paying for hotels each time. Thank you for sharing your costs, the comment section of this video is a treasure troll for anybody doing research on cost-of-living here.
On $500-600 a month in downtown Bangkok, no way!! Thanks for sharing this video. Hope you'll have more videos like this one.
I’m glad you enjoyed it, I’ve got a few other ideas that I’m working on
@@LifewithSerg Perfect👍🏾
I bought a cheap condo in Jomtien a few years ago. No rent to pay. Monthly management charges 800 baht utilities less than 200 baht a month. 5000 baht for food. 3000 baht for alcohol. Total 9000 baht a month = 268 $ . I cook fresh food at home every day purchased at Thai prices in the markets.
Walk every where zero transport charges
That sounds like a great budget. You've got things pretty dialed in!
I am not a youtuber but a "retired" expat living in Thailand. For the past 5 years, I've been living in Bangkok on a $500 monthly budget. Yes, it is doable, but there a "catch". You need to be frugal/savvy/disciplined. Frugal doesn't mean living cheap and miserable. Actually, I live relaxed. I can meet you in person, invite you to my place (house) and show you exactly how it can be done then you try it and then share with your audience. Deal?
I think anything is possible if you put your mind to it. It sounds like you found a way that works for you. That is great!
I agree with you though! Not in the downtown area, Sukhumvit-Silom tourist/business area.
And shot down your premise for calling other RUclipsrs liars. Disingenuous, at best.
That is not what he is saying
@@molonlabe9602
I have never seen a RUclips video explaining why Westerners can't live as cheaply as a Thai person.
A Thai person earning 40,000 - 50,000 baht per month would be living a very reasonable middle class existence. A Westerner would not be.
Obviously, no one would want to live on minimum wage 12,000 - 15,000 baht per month.
What I don't understand is that Westerners living on 4 times the minimum wage, say 60,000 baht are hardly living the luxury lifestyle in Bangkok.
60,000 is nowhere near enough to live a luxury lifestyle. I think for a true luxury lifestyle in a city Lake Bangkok you would need to spend 200,000+ per month. Of course everyone has a different idea of luxury.
@@LifewithSergI just get the impression from RUclipsrs that local Thais are able to live a substantially better lifestyle than Western people on same money. I have never seen a RUclips video explaining why this is the case.
@somluck2813 I think it’s mainly because they are used to living this way. They’ve grown up living like this so for them it’s comfortable. Whereas most westerners are accustomed to a very different way of living. I think it’ll be the same case if you took anybody from one country and moved them to another, there are certain things that, some people will never be able to get used to.
@@somluck2813 Westerners want to go to bars and clubs, eat expensive Western food, want bigger living spaces and have to pay for their own medical costs, visas, travel expenses etc. Also, many Thais are heavily in debt.
@@LifewithSerg Spot on!
thanks for keeping it real, cheers from Canada!
My pleasure.
Same as many other countries, if you are thinking of shoestring budget. You'll get very small or musty room, unhealthy foods, even in UK and the USA.
Yep. you’re so correct. Lots of people just lie to themselves, and then they get angry when someone points out the fact that their numbers just do not add up.
In my experience a single room apartment in a good location will be around 15k-20k baht including electricity and water and a 2 bedroom around 30 k+. Food is around 500-1000 baht/day if you eat like a normal person (excluding alcohol). I don’t party but from my experience cocktails in bars are usually 200-500 baht each . you have to factor in transportation as well. Bangkok is not a walkable city so you have to spend quite a lot on taxis or buy a car if you stay longer which will cost you at least 700-800k for the cheaper options. Then come health insurance, internet etc. I believe the minimum 1500$ is realistic with 2000+ being better. Many Thai people live on 500$ or less but it is not necessarily a comfortable live but one out of necessity. Many of the RUclipsrs don’t even have proper visas and you often hear of people living on a tight budget running into some major troubles being it health problems or cost overruns.
You are so correct on many points. Thanks for sharing.
I wonder how regular Thais must think/feel when westerners say living at their standard (based on average Thai monthly income) is "beneath" us.
I never said it was “beneath” us. I’m only saying that for most westerners it is not what they’re used to. There are wealthy people, and poor people, in every single country. Every society has different levels of income. I never put anyone down in this video
@LifewithSerg Correct you didn't. I put it in quotes as the tone of many comments. One person's luxury is another's just-getting-by. The only videos i have seen about these $500 condos are by young guys on insta chest puffing or guys doing basic cost of living video. Videos like these will always get the comment section humming!
I recently lived in Thailand for 3 years, from 2016-2020. I spent between $600-$1000 AUD per month. Which is about $400-$600 USD
$400-$600 per month?? Including rent, electric, water, Internet, cell phone, food, visa costs, medical insurance, entertainment, transportation, etc., I’m sorry, but there’s just no way that was possible for that amount of money unless you never left your room and lived like a beggar. Come on bro, let’s be honest here.
@@LifewithSerg I don't drink, I don't go to bars, I don't mess with bar girls. I lived in a building where I was the only foreigner. It's very easy to to
Careful with insurance. Some have found out too late the motorcycle accidents void the policy.
That is a very good point
I'm from the US and have been living in Chonburi for the past 2 years. You're paying WAY more than I do. My monthly recurring expenses are so cheap it almost seems negligible. Now, I'm starting to spend more on Western food I've been craving. I'm consistently paying between $500-$700 on food and transportation, alone. I also have Starbucks delivered pretty regularly. You're being overcharged or are overspending because you're not familiar with the areas you visit.
I’m not being overcharged or unfamiliar. I’ve covered over 2/3 this country on seven different motorbike tours. I typically have one or two fine dining experiences every couple of weeks and I spend the amount that I do because my finances easily allow me to do it. That’s all. Thanks for sharing your numbers, it will help a lot of people reading the comment sections. Plus you can’t compare the cost of living in Chonburi to Bangkok. I’ve been to Chonburi dozens of time so I am very familiar with it.
@LifewithSerg it's funny that you aren't even open to that idea...but ok.
However, there is a slight possibility, that you could be mistaken...I don't know. I wouldn't think I knew everything in a foreign country. That's just me though.
@Nader_61 I never said that I knew everything. Far from it. You’re just making assumptions because you think you know how I’m spending my money. This will be the equivalent of telling a multimillionaire celebrity that they can easily drive a Honda instead of a Ferrari. It just makes no sense. Have a good day!
@LifewithSerg I really hope you're enjoying your life. And I'm happy that you're paying the lovely Thai people so well. So many of them don't have opportunities outside of selling food. You're helping them create generational wealth. For that, Sir, I salute you!
Like anywhere in the world, how much it costs depends on what and where you want to live. One thing that is certain that however you live in Thailand will be substantially cheaper than the same lifestyle back in the West.
Yes, that is of course very true
I love that you gave a realistic outlook on the cost of living in Thailand. I've been to Thailand for 3 months per year for 2 years and realized I can live comfortably at $1500 USD per month. You do see a lot of RUclipsrs who exaggerate the budget to push the algorithm to gain more engagement or get a product sold through their affiliate link.
I'm not a big drinker, I don't smoke or get involved in the bar scene. I know not everyone can live like this without drinking but I've managed to eat healthy Thai dishes and live in the Lat Pharo area which is catered towards locals rather than tourists. As I get older I do realize that I would love to increase that budget to $2000 per month as I would have to factor in visa, savings, and traveling to other ASEAN countries.
It is pretty hard to do that on $1500 USD per month but this is a benchmark to start off if you're young or on a budget.
I think you’re very much right about the budget. Of course it all depends on each person‘s lifestyle and finances, but I think in the area that you live $1500 per month should be really nice. I also agree that you can bump it up to about $2000 a month you’ll be able to do more. It’s always a question of wants versus needs. Thank you so much for your insight, I do appreciate it.
Haha I see my video thumbnail up there. An no.. I'm not lying and I know how to count. I used the low budget to invest maximally and focus myself on starting an online business. A very low cost of living is definitely very possible and it was an enjoyable experience. Luxury lifestyle? Definitely not.. but great for anyone who is looking to focus their energy and work. Cheers!
There was a reason that I covered everyone’s faces. As you probably noticed in this video, I didn’t throw any one person under the bus. I didn’t mention any RUclipsrs by name and just used the thumbnails for reference. Sounds like you had a good plan and it worked for you. That’s awesome!
@@LifewithSerg it’s all good. There is plenty of misleading stuff out there with claims of luxury living. For me that was an extreme austerity budget with some clear goals in mind. I think it’s only suitable for that mindset as well. Cheers
@thebangkokguide I did something similar and lived on a low budget while working remotely. Saved a lot of money and the more Thai lifestyle was great. This guy moved to Thailand but looks down on how most Thai people actually live. Hope you’re doing well and love the videos!
The USD dollar 2 years ago 38 baht, now USD gives you 30.7 baht.
@@artair1 Yeah, it was a budget from 5 years ago from 2019, when the Thai baht was actually stronger than it currently is. That being said, prices have gone up somewhat and I'd probably add about 20% for inflation. In the video, I am very clear about all of this though. It was merely a base cost of living budget. To be honest, I don't think that this video is even discussing the same overall topic as the presenter focuses in on what constitutes a comfortable western lifestyle. My video was aimed at people aiming to focus on work and especially building an online business or hustle, which is exactly what I used it for.
Yeeesssss. Serg is back!! 🥳🥳🥳🥳
I am back!
I'm not in Bangkok, but Jomtien Beach, Pattaya. I live 400m from the beach and night market in an 8th floor ocean view 2 bdrm, 1 bath condo that is 64sqm. It has a gym and a swimming pool as well as a mini market. Its also on the baht bus line. We pay 19,000 baht per month for a year contract. For 2 of us, we spend about 26k baht per month. Including insurance, our monthly expenses are approx 75k baht and includes 9700 baht per month for travel. We also have home internet and phones and all the other things we need. Just sayin.
That’s great! Everyone has different costs and we certainly cannot be comparing apples to oranges. Sounds like you have a very good life.
Jomtien is maybe the cheapest civilized town on earth to chill
The great thing about Thailand is that you can make it suit your budget even if it is a small one .Your right about the older condos having been built stronger .I found that out when i tried to drill holes in a wall for shelving in a 30 year old Condo ,versus drilling holes in a brand new one .
lol, yeah those walls are solid! That’s why I like them.
Great advice, the older, established buildings are the way to go
This is the most HONEST, FACTUAL, VALUABLE video that anyone coming here should know. This is the real deal folks. I've been here 7-years and Serg is shooting 100/100 on this. If you have to learn by making your own mistake and can't learn from others, then have fun. However; if you are capable of logic and learning from others experience, watch this twice. Pure gold.
Thanks man! I tried to keep this video upbeat and lighthearted. I wasn’t going to start throwing any particular people under the bus, just wanted to share some more reasonable numbers.
Yes, he is absolutely right if you want to live in the "farang" area. However, it is possible to live well on a $500/month budget in Bangkok. I pay $300/month for rent, a 2BR duplex in a nice neighborhood, high ground (no flood) and not far from BTS. Everything I need is a few minutes from my house, market, shops, restaurants, bus, etc. A bunch of foreigners live in my area. One of them live with me in the same village/soi. Oh, it's very secure and safe. I really love it ❤
@@radical9er which area?
@@R-sn1ty I live in Saimai, near BTS Khu Khot Terminal. BTS from Khu-Khot to Mochit is 15 baht. To Chiang Wattana (immigration) is 41 baht. To Silom or Asok 62 baht. Everything I need is 15 minutes walk from home.
Fantastic response
We bring our standards and food preferences with us. Anyone who traveled there this past summer will tell you they spent 30% more than in other summers, the service quality has decreased, the aftermath of COVID on hotel rooms is noticeable, and repairs on streets is in need. All of this translates into higher costs on everything. Lastly, there is simply not the kind of and number of tourists as before…it’s different.
All very valid points!
If you stay out of the girly bars you can live in Bangkok comfortablly on $1,300 month. 50 sq meter apt 25,000 baht. groceries 9,000 baht utilities 3,400 baht.
I think 1500 would give you a little more breathing room. But just like you say, staying away from partying three or four nights a week and all the girly bars will make a huge difference.
So what's the point of coming to live in Bangkok??? I'm not one to sit in my condo and watch the world go by! Too boring.
@@finwest uh.... girl bars are far from the only thing to do.. if thats all you do maybe you should get help.
I’ve been living in Bangkok since 2016.
This one of very few realistic, honest, and useful videos about the cost of living in the Thai capital.
$1,500/month (THB 49,000) is indeed a realistic bare budget to live in Bangkok as an adult.
I’m glad you appreciated this video. I just wanted to shut some light on some erroneous information that’s being put out there.
Having lived there as an English teacher I couldn’t have done it on $500usd. Even $1000usd is difficult. My co teachers from other SE Asian countries could live on less and were paid less but none of us from Western countries could. Not only are the other Tubers doing it for clicks but they do a disservice to others with an unrealistic dream but they do Thailand a disservice by potentially causing an influx of folks thinking they can take advantage of the “lower cost” and doing a runner on their leases and utilities. A 30sqm condo gets quite claustrophobic pretty quickly.
Well said!
Why can teachers other SE Asian countries live on less than teachers Western countries? Why are teachers from other SE Asian countries paid less than teachers from Western countries?
@@somluck2813 they are considered Non native English speakers which pays less and they’re used to living on less in their home countries.
@@somluck2813 Teachers from other SE countries are used to a lower quality of life so don't mind living in squalor plus they aren't native speakers of English so are worth less to the schools.
This is a great video. A lot of people get the wrong idea about what is living in Thailand. Thanks for your video.
That’s really the main reason I made it. Glad you agree.
I agree with you. 99% youtubers are lying about living in Bangkok for as low as $500.
I was thinking about recording such a video as well, but good to see your eye-opener video. You justified your argument very nicely.
Thanks, I think it’s important to show the full picture. There’s too many people that buy this false rhetoric and are in for a big surprise when they move here.
ofc u can live there for 500 and u can live there for 50 000, it depends on your standards
All depends on the standard of your lifestyle. The minimum wage is about 10 euros a day, $300 a month. You need to adapt yourself to the local lifestyle, loging, food, transport etc. You are not working, so you can cook for yourself. For the price of a big mac you can buy 1kg of ground porc, for the price of a pizza, you have 2 chicken. For the price of cheapest bottle of wine you get 2 bottles of 40% rice alcohol. Since the end of covid, the price of fruits has more than doubled as the Chinese stopped the export. Locals pay less than $100 a month for a room with bath.
Of course, if you come to Thailand as a paradise destination in important cities, you need to spend what a local couple with high wages do, $1500.
If you go on live in less touristic areas, with much less.
Yes, one can adapt themselves to the local style of living. But unless you are here because of dire financial situation in your home country, I’m not sure why someone would want to move halfway around the world and live like that. Of course everything depends on the standard of lifestyle. The point of my video is that there is a lot of unrealistic claims being made. Many people who do research before they move here are led to believe that they can live like a king for 500 or $1000 a month, which just isn’t true. I’m not saying that you can’t live on those amounts, I’m just saying that you’re going to have a very basic lifestyle. Especially in Bangkok, which is where I mentioned this video was focused on. My reasons to Thailand had nothing to do with poor finances. I came here for a different experience in life, the culture, etc. So, at least in my case, I am definitely not willing to sacrifice my standard of living. Of course, the same lifestyle I had in the US costs me about 1/3 here so that was just an added bonus.
I'm in Thailand and I think I spend about 300 baht. a day just on stuff from the convenience store across the street. A realistic budget? $1600 a month, minimum.
I’m right there with you. I think I spent just as much at a convenience store almost on a daily basis. And at $1600, like both you and I have said, I think that’s a perfect sweet spot.
Still cheap compare to western life…
I think the youtubers should make it clear that they are talking about paying for a place or the actual cost of living , now when it comes to how to live , there is so many variables to choose from but also , your lifestyle and budget will determine how much your able to spend and save .... Visa costs is not part of a cost of living , cuz its a one time payment per the time you pay for and the costs can vary with different agencies as well as certain visas will be cheaper after the one time and there many visa options that are coming out .
Yes, but many people have to renew their visas every year and they only go through agencies. Many agencies will charge 30 or ฿40,000 every time you want to renew your retirement visa. So this is a big fallacy when people don’t factor this into the cost of living, because it most certainly is a part of the cost of living here.
@@LifewithSerg but its not a monthly cost unlike paying food, rent, transport and lifestyle that factors cost of living , thou I get what your saying , however with a retirement visa is 1 year and 3 months, after the first one , it costs less and with certain visas , its a one time payment like the 5year , the elite and a few others that you renew when the term is done , so when a visa , it really depends on the type , its not a one size fits the shoe situation .
@@LifewithSerg Many people don't use an agent to renew, your just creating drama for your content, but I get it, you/we also want watch time/views, etc Cheers well done.
I eat relatively healthy food (Som Tum, Pok Boong, etc.) for about half of the $1000 a month budget.
Also, I find older buildings to be better built and quieter than those "luxury" condos.
I don’t really spend $1000 on food monthly. I would say realistically it’s in between $600-$800. As much as I enjoy Thai food, it is not tops on my list of cuisines that I like. At the end of the day, everyone has different lifestyles, budgets, and finances. I think, as long as One is happy with how they’re living their life, that’s all that matters.
My final remark has to be about theft and scams in Thailand. Within my first 6 months of living in Thailand, I was robbed/scammed out over $10,000 within multiple instances. Police will be of little to no assistance. Thieves in Thailand are not just reserved for the locals because the first person to scam me in Thailand was an American from Minnesota.
This is unfortunately, a sad reality. A lot of times people get scammed by their own kind, because there is an underlying common ground. I’m sorry to hear that that happened to you.
@@LifewithSerg last September, myself and 3 other parties were scammed for thousands of dollars on fake leases. The leasing agent was colluding with a building employee in a luxury high rise in Bangkok to show apartment, collect payment, and then the victims would later find out everything was a fraud. Even worse, we were all victim shamed by building management. Also, Thais can be pretty racist, but the foreigners are even worse. But thailand is still better than Europe or any western country, period.
EVEN IF YOU SAY $1000 USD A MONTH STILL CHEAPER THAN
WESTERN COUNTRIES FOR SURE
AMERICA 🇺🇸 RENTNG APARTMENT =$1000 USD A WEEK =4000 A MONTH
ENGLAND 🇬🇧 RENTING APARTMENT $1500 POUND A WEEK = 6000 POUND GBP 🇬🇧
CANADA 🇨🇦 SAME ALL WESTERN COUNTRIES INCLUDING EUROPE 🇪🇺
You can still rent a nice apartment in major US cities for around $2k a month.
Well in I renting a family home 4 room and bathroom garden for 680 € euro a month is in the Netherlands
No! In my state in the USA rent a studio apartment for $800/month. It really depends on what part of the USA you are in.
England renting an apartment 1500 pound a week, where in London?? dont include all England in there.. I live in Manchester and I got my own 3 bedroom house and I pay 600 pounds a month in mortgage. And If you rent an apartment in the city centre is about 1200 to 1500 A MONTH not a week. London is not the whole of England
This is so true!
While SEA in general is a *lot* less expensive than a North American or European-equivalent, it ain’t free!
A western-middle-class-equivalent lifestyle in a major population center is going to cost $2-3k per month
This applies in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam
Sure you can spend less, or even a lot less - just pick your tradeoffs
Those tradeoffs might feel perfectly acceptable, or they may not
It comes down to your own comfort zone
But ya know…. These costs run about 1/3 of what it costs for me in the US, so I’m *happy*
You are so right. A lot of people that are upset at this video are just lying to themselves on how much they truly spend. 1/3 is exactly the number I go by as well.
I dont spend 1000/mo on food in the states. If you are spending $1000/mo on food in Thailand you need to get a Thai wife/gf to budget for ypur food.
I understand we all have different finances. I enjoy fine dining and I can afford it. Having a strong financial planing background, I assure you I am living well within my means. Not that it matters. Have a great weekend.
@LifewithSerg I'm not saying it's a lot of money. Your video is about a realistic BUDGET for living in Thailand. You can eat very well and healthy in Thailand for less than $500/mo. If you are budgeting 1000/mo for food in Thailand then you shouldn't have to.worry about a budget....which is what this video is about. Thailand isn't cheap. But you can live well there on 2,000/mo. Most Thai people do. A GOOD job with the government in Thailand for Thai people pays about 1200/mo.
@LifewithSerg maybe you are specifically speaking of Bangkok salaries and maybe it's higher there. Honestly when I go to Thailand I spend as little time in BKK as possible. The air quality and traffic there are unbearable. Thailand outside of Bamgkok is better and more affordable.
👍🏻 totally agree with you on the poor quality. I’m staying in a 32 sqm and feels even tinier as the kitchen is separated, and I can hear my neighbor coughing, talking. Thankfully, they don’t make much noise at all, if anything I make more noise, but I haven’t had any complaints. I went to some condos in search of one to stay for longer term and I was shocked at how poorly some of them are holding up. A supposedly luxury condo with large units, like 60, 80 sqm and above, but the kitchen cabinet doors are all falling apart, the toilet completely discoloured, the elevator flooring and roof pieces broken and not fixed - both the units and the common areas are completely neglected. Then there’s airbnbs for trying out a place/area for short term - they are asking ridiculous prices. And then the prices on yearly leases are well above those from RUclipsrs too. Maybe they negotiated the price down aggressively or at the time was much cheaper, but Thailand really isn’t as cheap as the RUclipsrs make it out to be these days. I reckon my living expenses are actually higher than that from western world first tier city from a decade ago, while staying at a much lower quality place.
You can live cheaply here, but for most westerners, it would be a tough life. I think one person can easily live for about $1500 per month. Everyone has different earnings, budgets and expectations. Thank you very much for sharing your info.
Shop in big c or the fresh market and cook your own healthy food.
That is certainly a good way to go
I am an American Expat living in Udon Thani Thailand and I say it is affordable. Most of these videos are referring to Expat hotspots like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Hua Hin, etc. So to say Thailand as a general term is misleading.
Very true. Places like Udon are much more affordable.
@@LifewithSerg and you get the rubber ducky @Udonthani Nong Prajak Lake for exercise 😊😊😊😊😊
This might sound like hate, but I’d be cautious with listening to guys built like this talking about “health”. Yea, street food isn’t the healthiest, but neither is burgers or pizza. Maybe mention what you eat too, so we can learn from actual examples of healthy food.
I completely understand what you’re saying. I am definitely not where I need to be with my health. I’m talking about ordering, clean grilled chicken, healthy salads with clean protein, and no sugar or any of that stuff added. I am overweight, I make no arguments against that.
I think that foreigners body are not use to dealing with street food that could be a little unsanitary or maybe a bit hesitant because of how it’s done very different here . The locals here are use to these food they grow up with them there body can fend off those little bits of bacteria but foreigners can’t that’s why they tend to get sick after eating our food . ( I’m a local and this is just my theory I don’t have any proof but I think it make sense 🤷♂️)
@gabbygab7003 I have absolutely no problem eating street food and definitely do it a couple of times a week. But just like you are used to eating that kind of food, those of us from other countries are used to eating other foods. While I enjoy street food. It’s not something that I want to consume on a daily basis. The main reasons being as I mentioned, the sugar, the salt, and the types of oils that are used to make this food. I’m not putting it down by any means, it’s quite delicious.
Serge, I have several condos for rent in Sukhumvit Suites, Sukhumvit Soi 13, which are all bigger than 50 sqm and 20.000 B or below. So if you look for one, in Nov. a newly renovated 60 sqm condo will be available for 19000 B. Just to let you know. 😉
That sounds like a great deal! I’m sure you will find good tenants. I prefer saying south of Thong Lor. Less tourists. Lol
All great information, thank you for this. One thing to consider though is that since you're just renting these "luxury" places you can move as soon as the upkeep starts going downhill. Since most of these places seem to be furnished there is little to pack if you downsize when you retire.
You are so right.
Good video Serg & agree with your comments .. I’m
In northern bkk (Ratchayothin nr Chatuchak market) as you know , 25 mins on bts from Sukhumvit. Building about 20 yr old , quiet 🤫 too .. My condo is 50sqm 10,000b 😅 re food - 500baht p/day on average ..
Yeah you got a good deal for sure!
Been living in Thailand almost 8 Years.
If you need a comfortable life here as a foreigner. 2000 USD monthly is a minimum. .
I think that’s a very comfortable number as well
For Thai people , if I wanna live in next to bts, Sukumvit downtown with rent, all total expend can't be less than 50,000 thai baht per month. You are right , 500usd is a joke! 🤣
I think there are many areas where you can live for $500, but like you said, it will have to be far from the downtown areas
@@LifewithSerg The downtown area is only interesting for new comers and those who work in the area. If you have no business there, after a while, you get sick of it. Sometimes, I don't go downtown for months.
For 50000 baht you can find many places even downtown area. Don’t over exaggerate lol 😂
@@BornBurmese Several US expats live in Siem Reap claiming quite comfortably - on about $800 - $1000 USD / mo. for essentials (!) - and - some extras ! Living alone somewhat frugal in a modest studio & don't drink (much) or smoke. ( 50 cent beers can be had ! ) There is cheap and healthy street food somewhat available over there if you look. 🤗
My mother-in-law has a place, the wife says $87/month usd. Close to University, major market, mall.
is a studio apartment type. Not sure about utilities. No a/c.
So, yes!!! You can do cheaper.
I’ve lived in Bangkok for over 8 years . I believe a minimum of 60,000 baht would be required to live a reasonable lifestyle ( including golf once a week ) plus Rabbit card costs , food , rent , electricity, wifi etc . That’s before you factor in a few beers and some “ entertainment “ costs if you’re a single man .
Yep, you are right on with that budget.
@@LifewithSerg Just for a bit of fun , here’s a normal 4 week period for me so anybody watching your excellent video ( and reading the comments ) can get a realistic view on life in Bangkok
Rent is 13500 for a nice condo on Rama 4 , walking distance to Ekkamai BTS
Electric is roughly 1700 with the AC on a lot . I have a fan but I think it just blows the warm air around lol
Wifi is 1200 inc the True Movie tv package ( which I don’t really need )
BTS Rabbit card approx 1000 baht but it can vary , sometimes need to top up before the end of the 4th week
I spend about 200 baht a week on water so 800 a month minimum
Usual weekly shop ( Max Value , Topps or occasionally Villa Market ) 1600 so 6400 a month. Have daily costs for little things from 7/11 like a loaf , milk , yoghurt etc which adds on an additional 1000 a month
Golf once a week at a decent course close to Bangkok : Green fee , caddy fee and ( usually cart ) approx 1600 . Caddy tip of a minimum of 600 baht , sometimes if she’s knowledgeable and good fun I will tip a bit more . Transport to and from Bangkok in a nice AC bus is 400 baht . Total for the day 2600 plus another 400 baht for water on the way round , a quick bite to eat at the end and usually 1 beer. So 3000 baht is a conservative cost , which equals 12,000 baht a month .
Give or take a couple of thousand baht and that’s 40,000 before you’ve bought a beer , eaten out at W District, another similar type venue or a restaurant . In my case I have a long term girlfriend and she has 4 grandchildren under the age of 14 . So one monthly cinema visit for the 3 oldest ones plus take them to eat ( they love Shabu ) bumps up the cost again . Pocket money when I see them , 100 baht each to the 3 youngest , 200 to the oldest and there’s 500 gone lol . Another 2000 a month .
So , 60,000 is the minimum I need to live a decent lifestyle here in Bangkok .
Serg most RUclipsrs lie to get views, click bait is rampant. If you do not have a minimum of $2,000 USD to live on per month in SE Asia, then you will not make it. You also need at least $25,000 in an emergency fund, more is better!!! We spend $2500 USD per month for my wife and I. We have a big investment portfolio, plus Canada pensions, we are more than fine, we could spend way more. We often travel to Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam. Try that on a budget of less than $2,000. We choose our accommodations very carefully, you generally get what you pay for. You are absolutely right about food, and quality of food and your health. Remember most people that have a low budget do not care about food quality, they either can't afford healthy food or literally do not care. Alcohol is the worst thing you can do to your body, that is the fastest way to bad health.
I couldn’t have said it better myself about the costs and the savings. Probably similar to you, I started planning for my retirement when I was in my late 20s. So many people have no idea where their money goes and spend wantonly.
@@LifewithSerg Yes, 100%, most have no idea how to manage money or plan for the future, then they want someone else to bail them out, and often criticize people that have been financially responsible, like we have done something wrong!!!
I’m so happy someone made a video about this topic. Your video is spot on. I really don’t like the new condos in bkk. I’ve been living here for three year. My budget is about 250k per month on a good month but I golf a lot. I never eat street food because of my sensitive stomach. I live in the phloen chit area where rent can be 100k on average
Part of the problem is that people think that anyone who moves to a country like Thailand is doing it because they’re in financial ruin. They miss the fact that there is plenty of people, like yourself, that did not move here with the sole purpose of saving money. Many of us just wanted a change of pace in our lives. It’s just unfortunate that throughout life, those that are miserable, would rather drag people down with them, then run with the winners.
I used to watch a weirdo youtuber called cheap charlie and he lived on about $400 per month. He lived in an absolute dump, ate noodles in his apartment and would buy beers and hang out on pattaya walking street.
I am not sure who that is, but yeah. There are lots of videos like that. And of course, that can be done, and some areas of Thailand. However, unless you’re in dire financial straits, that is just surviving and not really living.
@@LifewithSerg You don't know Cheap Charlie? He's pretty famous and used to sponge off an older Iranian guy. He was a drunk and lived a pitiful existence.
He was better before he showed his rude head.
@JC-lu4se that sounds brutal. Lol. I never got into that kind of content.
@JC-lu4se My favorite thing about him was his live chats and people watching him would call the store he was at saying he was a Russian spy or that he had mice in his backpack. I'd be in tears laughing at him being questioned by a store clerk or the police. The last time I saw him was a couple years ago and he was back in pattaya still getting good money from his live chats. They were only good when he'd get angry with a troll though. I'd mostly watch other channels who shortened his content to less than 10 minutes with the stupid highlights.
My friend live in 30y 50sqm 2 bedroom old condo at Payathai bts exit for 15000 baht (450Usd)
You can get good food (low carbs and height protein)by cooking them at around 100baht (3Usd) per meal
That’s a good plan!
I believe his cook at home costs are inflated. You should be able to have healthy meals, buying groceries and cooking at home - and manage with $500 a month for 2 people. Thanks.
Mabe you cant but you really cant speak for everyone my friend .
Never said I was speaking for everyone. Just my experiences and opinions.
Living in Pattaya the last two years. Been counting every daily receipt. Averaging 55,000 baht per month. This includes health insurance (Pacific Cross) and all other expenses such as rent, transportation, cell phone/internet, visa, etc. etc.
yeah, so you’re right around $1700 per month. And like I said towards the end, the video I think $1500-$2000 is the sweet spot. Sounds like you’ve built yourself a great life.
Your costs are high. You're spending more than I do on rent and food, yet I'm in Australia! You're living in a huge place and spending big on food. I don't spend as much as you when I'm visiting there and I could certainly spend even less if I lived there. The last dinner I had in Bangkok was about 125 baht. (About 100 baht for the meal and 25 baht for a drink.) Can be even cheaper if I go somewhere like Terminal 21 or Bangrak.
We all have different budgets and tastes. I didn’t move to Thailand to save money. You telling me how much you think I should spend is not a valid point. Since you don't know my finances, you have no base metrics to know my earnings to spending ratio.
@@LifewithSerg He ain't cheap! we like to live life good
He said that you can live cheap.. He said you can find cheap apartments ,but they wont be in the best locations or well kept. you can eat cheap, but your not going to be healthy, Yes he spends lots of money, but he has it to spend. People expecting to find a huge apartment, a block from bars and BTS isn't going to happen. He is trying to show reality, TANSTAAFL. So I have to ask, did you watch the Video?
@@elund408 The "not going to be healthy" part is rubbish too. There's tons of lovely, cheap fruit and vegetables in Thailand. A great deal more variety than we have here. But someone who lives like a king in a country whose cost of living and GDP is about 1/5 of here is unlikely to be a good source of information. (I guess your question is either rhetorical or plain stupid, as I wouldn't know what he spends if I didn't watch it, would I?)
@@Photojouralist123 There is cheap and there is frugal. I am frugal. I don't wast my money based on price but value. Fyi, I'm not poor and as a matter of fact, I don't have to work to be able to survive. I learned from how rich people live, not celebrities. Btw, I own a car and my rent is actually mortgage payment. Did you ever watch that youtube short of the British multimillionaire guy who went to the bank to borrow $5000? That's how I think... I spend the minimum cash to gain the maximum benefit. I never spend over a $100 on a lexurious hotel room, a room similar to the one where you spent $400/night. There is a problem though! If you like to show off, my lifestyle will be a torment to you, because I don't ive a damn what others think of me. I actually like it when people think I'm poor. They don't see ATM written on my forehead ;-)
The rule of thumb that I use is that whatever the style of living that you have in the US, you can have the same style of living for half that. Which means that if you want to live in Thailand for $500 a month you will have the same style of living as you had in the US for $1,000 a month which is a dismal living.
The minimum income you can have to qualify for a retirement visa is about $1,800USD per month. Minimum. AFAIC that's where an expat should start. Anything less than that they are going so struggle.
You actually don’t have to have a minimum monthly income for a retirement visa. You need to have ฿800,000 in your bank account if you don’t want to show a monthly income I completely agree with you that if you want to have a similar lifestyle you’re gonna spend about 30 to 1/2 what you wouldn’t the US.
My wife and I retired in Bangkok 2 years ago. We typically spend about $800 a month on food eating most lunches at home and going out for dinner.
That is a very sensible budget for two people.
ooooh. Looks like the food isn't the only spicy thing in Thailand today. I like this!
Oh yeah, there’s lots of spicy comments here as well. Lol
@@LifewithSerg Haha yea, I'm just seeing that. People don't seem to understand cost of living vs cost of rent.
Spot on! My biggest surprise upon moving to Bangkok was the condo size-so many units feel like a hotel room. Happily, I found an adequate 2-bedroom condo at 52 sq m. Certainly not the long-term solution, as I could use double the size. The price is B29,000, which I think is a deal given the nearby BTS and shopping location. I make breakfast and eat out for lunch and/or dinner. I prefer restaurants where I can relax and get to know the cute staff (I'm on a mission to go to every shop in EM Sphere!). No street food, as sitting on a little plastic stool 2 meters from the public bus exhaust and motorbike noise doesn't appeal to me. So, absolutely, the budgets quoted by most RUclipsrs are way off base. Could I trim expenses? Sure, but just because I can doesn't mean I should.
You’re one of the few people that realizes that although we can live in poverty, doesn’t mean that we should. We all have different finances and budgets. Sounds like you’ve got a nice place, and you’ve got your whole situation down to science.
Dude, don’t bag out other people’s Chanel’s, it’s not a good reflection on you. Focus on your own views, cos at the end of the day, that’s all it is.
Disagree. He has some valid points
I never mentioned anyone by name so just relax buddy. It will all be ok.
.........looks like U a 1 of those BS podcasters
@@LifewithSergWatching all of those clickbait vids got me here with some definite misconceptions. I’m in Bangkok, but have also been to Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Phuket. If you stay in a decent larger room in a nice upscale hotel, you’re starting at a minimum $2000 Baht and up ($60k Baht per month). Yes, that’s more than you could get a nice condo for, but then you’re signing a long term lease, not something someone on a long vacation or an extended stay has the luxury of doing. Food? I’m not seeing all this world class cuisine people talk about. I see a lot of mysterious stuff floating in soup and vendors literally selling fried bugs and insects on the street. Just can’t do it. Even the Korean and Japanese BBQ can cost upwards of $30 USD, and I love the fact that these restaurants are charging customers to cook their own food!😅 The hotels I’ve stayed at charge $12 to $15 for breakfast. If you eat regular western food, like KFC, McD, BK, Subway or Taco Bell, for what I remember from back home, it’s MORE EXPENSIVE here than the US. Not complaining, I not only chose to come here but have remained here for a combined 5 months, plus I can afford it. I agree with you and just think the Tubers should be more realistic with the misguided scenarios they are giving people. I think you’re vid was spot on and appreciate the more realistic expectations that it gives people to be aware of what they getting into. Thanks for the helpful info.
P.S. The USD has tanked about $15 per $100 exchanged in the over 2 months I’ve been here. $00 USD went from being worth over $3650 Baht to today it was $3220. That doesn’t even factor in the $220 Baht that all ATMs charge, or $6.70 USD. All in, you’re losing over $20 per $100 USD, with NO end in sight. People need to factor that in too when planning a trip here. Maybe an idea for an upcoming video? 🤔😁
@@ericrenfro4429 Many people want to believe they can live a irt cheap life here, and NOT give up any western luxuries. They don't like this being pointed out because it derails their own internal monologue about the true cost of living here as an expat. Thanks for the video idea!
After looking at some other videos, I will say “Serg” is giving us a more realistic account of expenses.
Yeah $1500-2000 per month budget if you want to live comfortably in a big city like Bangkok.
I stayed long term in Thailand for 2 or 3 months each year. I would say at least $1500 a month.
I think that’s an extremely realistic budget
1500 is no life in Thailand
@tapptom I know people who complain about living on $10,000 a month. Everyone has different expectations, budgets and expenses. There is no one size fits all.
Health Insurance can be very expensive especially for retirees. Americans over 65 have to start Medicare otherwise every year they delay starting the premiums go up by 10 percent. Also Medicare is basically useless and not usable overseas. Current Thailand health insurance companies while there are some good ones get very expensive for older folks and in many cases is not even available for people in their 70s. Current cheapest Medicare A and B Supplement is right at 185 USD a month. Many expats choose to self insure which is possible and very cheap if you need some minor routine issues fixed even broken bones, but will break you if you have a serious treatment needed.
He is spot on about food, although a few days a week you can eat quite OK on some street food. Noodle soup is less than 50 baht. Fried rice dishes at some local places with shrimp or chicken which have a smattering of vegetables onions, garlic, tomato pieces will set you back 120 baht for quality.
Even for younger people, Medical Insurance is important because a lot of them that come to this country. Don’t exactly have good finances. A simple trip to a hospital can set them back many many months. And yes, it is difficult to get Medical Insurance here once you get older, no doubt about that. You brought up some very valid points, thank you so much for sharing.
You can opt out of Medicare payments if you live abroad. I did when I started collecting SS here in Sweden, but then I get coverage here and never plan on returning to the US. But isn't Medicare about $180 a month? Then you still pay a lot out of pocket anyway in the US. One doctor's visit for my brother is $150 co-pay.
Dude, We have a 33 sq mt condo in IDEO2. 9500 baht a month, walls aren't paper thin, none of the negative stuff you are talking about. Talk about lying RUclipsrs..............
Not everyone want to live in a cheap shoe box
@@stevereeve1 The point is that most westerners will not be happy living in a tiny place way out of the city center eating street food all day. Which is what 500 USD a month will get you, if even that.
And the viewers should know that these prices are for minimum 1 year leases. Not for 60 day visa travelers. A decent 30 day Airbnb is $1000 to 2000 per month in a nice area near a BTS station. But if you got the money, Bangkok is the best!!!
Yeah, many people are just clueless about where they stand financially. Unfortunately, financial literacy is not something that is taught in almost any school.
$500 per month in Bangkok is a bit ridiculous for sure
Yet people still say you can do it. Sure yon can do it, but man it will be rough (for too use living here from the west).
@@LifewithSerg it hard for average Thai in Bangkok too...
able to do it in Rangsit, but definitely not a luxurious life
well i was living there for 6 month it is possible, 350€ for my appartment maybe 20€ for electricity bill, then 150€ for food and transportation if i wanted to go see friends and also go to school. I didnt have much money to go out much and everything😂😂 honestly it is possible but only if you stay in your house many days in a month and not go out everyday and eat out
I think the heading of this video is "It's hard to live in Bangkok for $500". I think you raise some valid points, but at the same time, you also give examples of how you can live on $500. For example, your friend is paying ~$200mo on rent, living on street food for $1-$2 per meal (or $5-$6 day, or $150/mo; and that doesn't mean you can cook vegetables at home), health to $30/mo to public hospitals, $100 visa, and $20 internet. I'm not sure who thinks they can live well on $500 in a major international city. So yes, you can live on $500 in Bangkok, but it's not going to be great.
I probably should’ve mentioned that my friend is Thai. So that person is used to living on the average Thai salary of about $600 per month.
@@LifewithSerg I think if someone has a $500 budget, they are going to be living an upgrade in Thailand, and even in a big city like Bangkok. $500 in the US or Canada would be basically living on the streets, unless they are working to supplement their budget (vs in Bangkok, they are essentially retired/not working, or working under the table to supplement their budget).
finally someone telling the truth that's actually boots on the ground. new sub. traveling to thailand next year doing the research. learning the culture and language. great information
I think it’s so smart of you to come out here and do some research before committing. There are things that you would like, and there are things you won’t like. I wish you the very best and thanks for joining the team.
As an American having first coming to Thailand in 1969 with a back pack when I could buy a huge plate of fried rice that made a meal alone for 15 cents (the baht then 20 to the dollar) today a very small portion costs $1.20. A huge bowel of noodle soup that also made a full meal for a 23 year old American cost 15 cents. Rented a 2 story house across the river from the palace for $20 a month.
Having spent more of my life since I was 23 in Thailand than America I have learned to live a decent life in Thailand at 78. I am married to a Thai who is a medical professional with a monthly salary over $5,000 a month I receive $2,000 a month Social Security and we don't live much better than if we lived in America. We don't eat out much since we prefer to cook and eat at home. We shop at MECRO for groceries. We own our own home that you would call middle class, my wife drives a Mazda and I drive a pickup. Our biggest expense is our 17 year old son that goes to a private school near our home. Shopping trips are a weekend in Bangkok every 3 or 4 months where we my spend $400 for hotels restaurants and shopping and fuel for the 160 km drive. Most reasons to come to Bangkok are embassy related. In other words we live much like we did in America 15 years ago. Only real benefit we have that most foreigners don't have is my wifes job provids almost free medical care should we need it.
To summerize our life style on $70k a year is, we don't live a life of luxury, now vac😢ations to Europe, although we did go to Malaysia and Saigon. Vietnam (where I was stationed during the war 1967-68). We manage to save 15% that we know we will need as our son goes to college in Bangkok. Or the whole world economies collapse we will be able to maintain our lifestyle. I wish that those who think that coming to Thailand at this time in econmic history my regret coming to Thailand if there is an economic collapse, pensions and Social Security will be worthless and not being with family and friends may turn into a living hell if you come to Thailand. Keep in mind Thailand has a very limited welfare system, thats why they want the $20,000 in a Thai bank account for a retirement visa.
I wish more people understood this. There’s a lot of folks that moved to Thailand that couldn’t manage their finances in their home country, so naturally they cannot manage them here.
@@kennetharntson5912 So both of you together have an income of 7000$ but only spend 70.000 Baht?
@SjaakSchulteis No we are spending Around $5,000 + a month. 165, 000 baht. Banking the balance. My wife of 26 years is 24 years younger than me.
@@kennetharntson5912 With your income you say that you don't live a life of luxury? I would say, that kind of income is more than enough to live like a king. Double of what I have and I can't say I'm poor. I still manage to save 30% of my income each month, without any problem.
@SjaakSchulteis You must not live in Thailand. There is a higher percentage of Thais that are multiple millionaires than in America. Those are the people that live like kings. Just stand on the streets and count the number of BMWs and Merced
ought to tell you something. I don't live like a king. Maybe because I am not a businessman. I worked as a construction manager for major oil companies. My projects had millions of dollars budgets but I was not paid millions. However, while working on a remote project in a jungle or a desert that lasted 2 or 3 years the oil company provided me housing, food, transportation. Since the projects were remote there were no place to spend money. Staying on site 3 to 4 months and single at 51 allowed alot of my tax free salary to stay in the bank. So I could problem live like a king. However, I was managing a 1.8 billion project in Thailand in 1997 when the Thai economy collapsed, I saw a lot of kings that lot everything because they lived on credit. I didn't and my life went on with few changes. Seems the whole world will be going through what Thailand went in 1997. Pretty sure me and my family will be just fine
Now THAT was refreshing! Amazing vid man. I'm here for the alternative perspectives and this didn't disappoint. I'll be there in about a month looking for a place for my parents to retire. We love Bangkok but are focusing more on Pattaya precisely because we didn't have much luck finding the older, larger condos in Bangkok. 140+ m² sounds like a dream. We were looking more in the 90m² to 110m² range (for budget reasons) for a 2br/2bth. You have given us hope these places exist. No lush co-working spaces, saunas or golf simulators necessary, just a pool, gym in well maintained building. Modern common areas and furnishings are a big plus. I'm I love the idea of a solid older building thats gone through a renovation in the kast 10 years. That would be ideal! I'm new to your videos so tell me, did you work with an agent to find your place? Were there lot's to choose from? Any Insight or links to resources would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for this content and reading this long response.
A good agent certainly helps. The best way is to pick neighborhoods you’d want to live in and just go walk them to look at buildings. There are TONS of older condo buildings here. Once you do some research doing this, you will see what suits you.
Maybe a good idea to take down your burnt out bus image you put up on YT. A pretty sensitive image at this time. Just saying.
Hey, great call! Done and done. I obviously posted that days before anything happened.
@LifewithSerg Thanks, I knew you had posted day's before. Just thought I'd let you know. Great job, keep up the great work.
@danielcully6047 thanks for looking out! I completely forgot about that
You are spot on Serg most off the u tubers don’t have class and are used to basic standard off living rent is the main expense so thank for bringing the real truth the bloggers have relocated to Thailand mist off them in the last 5 years so allways paint a rosy picture how things are so cheap
Glad you enjoyed this video. It’s certainly possible to live here cheaply, but I think a lot of people represent unrealistic living conditions. Most westerners that move to countries like this do not want to considerably degrade their lifestyles.
Keep up the good work Serg. 🎉
Thanks! More coming soon
$2,000 USD is more likely, especially if you don't drink. Older folks should consider health insurance.
I think everyone should get health insurance. Especially since Thailand has the second highest traffic fatalities in the world. There is very little regard for safety in this country.
@@LifewithSerg I agree. Crossing the street is like an Olympic event.
My buddy @peteonretreat did a comparison vid from his last year's budget by himself there on Pratnumak Hill to now, with a girlfriend. Basically, your budget in the city will be $2,000 u.s. or more depending on your lifestyle, etc. If you want to do nothing but sit, read, watch, you can do it cheaper. But...I ain't doing THAT. Thing is...I just don't know where I want to be.
I think you can do it for as little as $1500. $2000 will make it quite comfortable. Everyone has different expenses, finances and expectations. So it’s really impossible to lay a flat number out that will work for everyone. A lot of it is just going to be by trial and error for you. Best of luck!