The Best Neighborhoods for Expats in Bangkok
With its large size and diversity, Bangkok has plenty of places to live for expats. While Khao San Road is popular with the backpacker crowd looking to save a bit of money, luxury travelers tend to prefer the Sukhumvit and Sathorn area.
However, if you’re planning on staying in the Big Mango for longer, then you’re probably not going to take any chances. To answer your question of ‘Where to live in Bangkok?, this Pacific Prime Thailand article explores the best neighborhoods for expats in the mega city.
Finding the Best Bangkok Neighborhood to Live in as an Expat
It can be quite a challenge to find the best Bangkok neighborhood to live in as an expat. From Thong Lor to Ekkamai and beyond. Each one is so different from another, and so is the lifestyle that comes with them. Navigating through each one is not easy – especially if you don’t speak Thai.
With that said, there’s no objective best place as it all boils down to your unique preference and situation. More often than not, the deciding factor is how close to work or how convenient the commute is due to the traffic in the Thai capital.
Other factors to consider are lifestyle-related, such as whether you want to live in a calmer environment or prefer an active nightlife. Budget is also important, with areas such as Phrom Phong and Ekkamai costing more than areas with just a few BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) stations down the line like On Nut.
Here are some of the best places to live in Bangkok.
Ekkamai
Ekkamai is one of the best places to live in Bangkok amongst middle-class expats and Thais. With its hipster vibe and a plethora of dining and leisure options, there’s so much to see, do, and indulge in here.
On top of that, Ekkamai is conveniently situated in the Sukhumvit area and easily accessible on the BTS line. The Eastern Bus Terminal is also found here. The unique blend of trendy and traditional not only makes the area interesting, but gives you plenty of housing options as well.
Thong Lo
As a stomping ground for the “hi-so” crowd (Thai high society) and affluent travelers and expats, Thong Lo is easily one of the city’s trendiest spots. You’ll be right in the middle of upscale restaurants, swanky bars, designer boutiques, and high-end malls.
To be part of the action, you’re going to have to pay for it with higher rent. If you have expensive taste and a modern outlook, Thong Lo could be somewhere to mark on your Bangkok neighborhood map.
Phrom Phong
Conveniently situated on the BTS Sukhumvit line, Phrom Phong is easily the top Bangkok neighborhood for shopping and dining options. Additionally, it’s got a park, coffee shops, art galleries, and grocers that sell imported Asian food items.
Phrom Phong also happens to be where many Japanese and Korean expats choose to live. With many Japanese restaurants, stores, and residents, Phrom Phong is ideal for those who want a taste of Japan while living in Bangkok.
Sathorn
If you’ve got a lot of cash to splurge on rent and want to be centrally located, then Sathorn might be the best place to live in Thailand, let alone Bangkok. Sathorn has plenty of luxury living options, including condominiums and houses that come with modern amenities.
Similarly, you can find condos with Western kitchens and bathrooms, along with facilities like gyms and pools. You’ll also be surrounded by all types of food and nightlife, while still being close to the BTS. With Lumpini Park and the river nearby, it’s no surprise expats like Sathorn.
Lat Phrao
Don’t discount the Lat Phrao area when considering ‘where to live in Bangkok’. Business and leisure meet in this part of the city, which is like a concentrated, liveable version of the city. Popular amongst expat families, Lat Phrao is home to some of the best schools in the country.
It has a lot of green spaces for Bangkok standards. Chatuchak weekend market and other attractions are also just around the corner. Easily accessible via the BTS and MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit), Lat Phrao is near the Northern Bus Terminal too, offering many transport options for city dwellers.
Ari
Ari is not as centrally located as many other expat-popular areas, but that’s part of its charm. With its laid-back style and slower pace, the area is suitable for those who want to live in calmer surroundings without venturing too far from the city center.
As a relatively safe and clean area, Ari boasts a variety of cafes, bars, restaurants, and stores. It’s also an upcoming area and one of the best places to live in Bangkok alone, as a couple, or with your family.
Victory Monument
Another BTS-accessible part of Bangkok that has a lot going on, Victory Monument has a broad range of apartments for you to choose from. It has something for any budget and preference as well.
The area also has lots of food options ranging from street vendors and market stalls to international restaurants. Even though the nightlife is not as happening as in other Bangkok neighborhoods, there are enough places to hang out after dark without disturbing the peace.
Bang Na
This Bangkok neighborhood is on the up and up, which is not surprising when you look at the cheaper accommodation costs and the unique blend of old and new developments. Slightly away from the heart of the city, it’s only a quick BTS or bus ride away from the action.
Location-wise, Bangna is close to Samut Prakan, Chonburi, and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Bang Na’s shopping malls and a variety of housing options make it easy to live here, especially if you prefer to be away from high-rise buildings.
Udom Suk
As part of Bangkok’s central business district (CBD), Udom Suk is an attractive choice for many expats. Its calmer pace and local charm appeal to tourists and locals alike, resulting in a more diverse area.
With fewer foreign eateries, it’s easier to find cheap local food and experience the Thai way of life here. Massage places, shops, and the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center (BITEC) are also nearby, making Udom Suk one of the best places to live in Bangkok.
On Nut
On Nut is growing in popularity among expats with its affordable rent, convenient access to the city center, and local amenities. While the area is mostly home to Thai residents, more and more expats and their families are starting to move into this Bangkok neighborhood.
The T77 community is one residential area gaining traction in On Nut. There are a few supermarkets and many food options as well. The co-working spaces around On Nut are also convenient for those who work remotely.
Phra Khanong
Conveniently situated along the BTS Sukhumvit line, Phra Khanong is easily accessible and affordable. If the idea of living in a condo or apartment doesn’t appeal to you, then Phra Khanong might be more your speed, with housing options available for less.
Even though the area seems to be mostly made up of Thais, it has a decent expat community. Expats like being able to reach the major commercial areas of Bangkok easily, while staying in an area with more of a neighborhood feel. It’s also where the popular W District is located.
Ratchada / Rama 9
Reachable by MRT and public buses, Ratchada’s roads are usually less backed up than other areas of Bangkok, making it a better option for those with vehicles. The residential area has plenty of shopping outlets, along with the Train Market.
Whether you’re a foodie, gym-goer, or both, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Ratchada. With its studios, condos, and apartments of all sizes, Ratchada is making its mark on the Bangkok neighborhood map.
Get in Touch with Pacific Prime Thailand Today!
The best place to live in Bangkok comes down to finding a place that is right for you, whether that’s Ekkamai, On Nut, or anywhere in between. But one thing that you can love about living here is knowing that your healthcare needs are met, with many public and private hospitals around the city.
If you’d like to access private hospitals without paying out of pocket, private health insurance is the answer. Whether you’re looking to secure expat health insurance in Bangkok, travel health insurance, or anything in between, Pacific Prime Thailand is here to help.
As a reputable and experienced brokerage, we can compare health insurance plans from reputable local and international insurers to ensure you get the best health insurance in Thailand for your needs and budget.
Contact us for no-obligation advice or a free quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is a salary of THB ฿100,000 per month enough to live in Bangkok?
A salary of THB ฿100,000 per month is considered a luxury based on Thai standards and will let you live comfortably in Bangkok. You can live in a spacious 1 or 2-bedroom apartment, which will cost you THB ฿15,000 to THB ฿30,000 per month, and have plenty of disposable income.
Does Bangkok have pretty streets?
While Bangkok is notorious for its overhead electrical wires, non-existent sideways, and lack of city planning, it does have some pretty areas and streets. Bangkok’s Yaowarat (or Chinatown) is one example and will captivate you with its charm.
Which area in Bangkok is considered the most exciting?
When it comes to exciting areas in Bangkok, at the top of the list is Khao San Road, which is one of Bangkok’s most popular party streets. The area attracts plenty of backpackers and tourists with its nightclubs, bars, and fun vibes.
Is it worth living in Sukhumvit?
Many people feel it’s worth living in Sukhumvit as it’s in the heart of the city, with plenty of malls, modern supermarkets, exciting dining options, and things to see and do. The area is popular with expats and Westerners, and is well-connected by both BTS and MRT.
Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content - no matter how complex the subject is.
Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.
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