MONTHLY Cost Of Living in CHIANG MAI Thailand 2024 (Budget Guide)

Why Should You Move To Chiang Mai, Thailand?

Cost Of Living in Chiang Mai Thailand

So You Want to Live in Chiang Mai, Thailand, On a budget? The Cost Of Living In Chiang Mai, Thailand, makes it possible to Live For Around $550 to $2000 per month, depending on your budget. Incredible, right? Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a hotspot for Digital Nomads; this is where we first started traveling and interacting with other Digital nomads and expats and building our online businesses to travel full time!

  • This article explains how we lived in Thailand for 2 years for under $1000 per month as Digital nomads, how others did it, and how You can Live in Chiang Mai, Thailand too. We also included a few videos that will help you on your journey.
  •  We’ll outline all the important details about living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, including rent and accommodation prices. We’ll also provide a summary of the costs of food, transportation, Things to do, and other everyday expenses. So whether you’re planning a more extended stay or want to know what the average cost of living is in this beautiful city.
  • Chiang Mai, Thailand, has excellent weather, some of the world’s most beautiful temples and nature, incredible mountains and jungles in northern Thailand, world-class views, awesome adventures to make, and an incredibly unique Thai culture. Chiang Mai, Thailand, is extremely safe, making it a great place to raise a family.
  •  Here’s a breakdown of some key expenses: Total Monthly Living Costs in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Is $550 to $2500 Per Month For all expenses, and if you budget the smart way, then you can expect to spend $810 to $1220 per month for all expenses and live incredibly comfortably.
  •   Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 6 times cheaper than living in New York City, United States. As we will explain, yes, you don’t have to spend the $6,000 per week on vacations you see on social media. This is the wrong way to travel!
  •   The average monthly cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is $400 For the Local Natives. Expats and Digital Nomads will spend more to keep up with their living standards of around $1200 per month or more.
  •   Chiang Mai, Thailand, has world-class local food and street food that you need to try, which is another tip to save money as it is incredibly cheap and gives you a massive quality and huge plate of food. Try to eat at the local markets and supermarkets. You will save a lot of money doing this. Also, check out the 7/11 for unique snacks and food.
  •  This article will help you understand how much money you’ll need to live comfortably by providing an in-depth overview of the Cost Of Living In Chiang Mai, Thailand.

We’ve been digital nomads for 4.5 years. We also lived in Thailand for 2 years and have been traveling the world since then, so we’ll share our experiences with you! Let’s do it!


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Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Chiang Mai Thailand Summary: $580 to $2950 per month

Credit to Chris The Freelancer
Cost of living in Chiang Mai Thailand expenses

The cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranges from $580 to $2950 per month. The cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 84.2% lower than in New York City, United States. With a family of four estimated monthly costs of $2,100, depending on your spending habits and strategies.

You can reduce your monthly budget massively with research, solid budget planning, eating local food, Using the transportation options available, renting your own scooter, shopping at the supermarkets, and renting on Airbnb monthly or finding a cheaper apartment locally.

Key Facts about the Cost Of Living in Chiang Mai, Thailand:

  • The range of costs in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is from $580 to $2850 + per month, depending on your spending habits and your budget.
  •    A budget food and grocery plan will cost you around $200 to $500 per month on average, depending on your location and budget.
  •    Overall, a monthly budget of $1000 to $1500 is a realistic estimate for the cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand. You should re-evaluate your budget and spending habits if you spend above that.
  •    A family of four estimated monthly costs is $2100.
  •    A single person estimated monthly costs are $580 to $1400.
  •    On average, the cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 84.2% lower than in the United States.
  •    Rent in Chaing Mai, Thailand, is, on average, 80% lower than in the United States.
  •   Transportation costs expect to spend an estimated $4500 baht to 8000 baht ($120 – $190) each month on transportation.

Estimated Monthly Cost Of Living In Chiang Mai Thailand: Table of Expenses 2024

The Cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand table below is An intensive research poll of Digital Nomads, Expats, travelers, and Numbeo users that lived in Chiang Mai, Thailand was used to put this together. We also go deeper below this table of expenses!

$1 USD equals 35.52 Thai Baht. This estimate is based on an extremely Strict Budget Vs. A luxury Budget in Chiang Mai, Thailand per month! The Cost Of Living Per Month In Chiang Mai, Thailand, is $580 to $2950, depending on your spending habits! Here is a table of expenses for a couple living in Chiang Mai, Thailand per month:

Average Monthly Expenses In Chiang Mai, ThailandUSD $Thai Baht USD/THB THB
Rent (Homestay, Guesthouse, studio vs Full Private Villa) In Chiang Mai, Thailand$140 – $1500THB Baht 4972 – THB Baht 53280
Electricity (Including water) In Chiang Mai, Thailand$30 – $100THB Baht 1065 – THB Baht 3552
Mobile Phone (including data) AIS True Move In Chiang Mai, Thailand$20 – $50THB Baht 710 – THB Baht 1776
Internet (WiFi) in Chiang Mai, Thailand$20 – $50THB Baht 710 – THB Baht 1776
Food (groceries, dining out, partying, nightlife) in Chiang Mai, Thailand$200 – $500THB Baht 7104- THB Baht 19536
Transportation (motorbike, fuel, renting, Taxi) In Chiang Mai, Thailand$100 – $300THB Baht 3552 – THB Baht 10656
Healthy Activities (Gym, MMA, Yoga, Massages, etc) In Chiang Mai, Thailand$30 – $300THB Baht 1065 – THB Baht 10656
Health Insurance (SafetyWing, World Nomads) In Chiang Mai, Thailand$40 – $150THB Baht 1420 – THB Baht 5328
Cost of Living In Chiang Mai, Thailand Per Month Total Expenses$580 – $2950THB Baht 20601 – THB Baht 104784

The cost of living in Chiang Mai is relatively low compared to other major cities in Thailand!


Cost Of Rent and Accommodation In Chiang Mai Thailand Summary: $140 – $1200 per month

Cost of Rent and Accommodation in Chiang Mai Thailand

The Cost of Renting an apartment or Airbnb in Chiang Mai, Thailand, will cost $140 to $600 for a simple apartment per month to $800 or more for a luxury apartment. It’s important to research beforehand to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. Various rentals are available. We recommend using Airbnb.

One of the best places to start is by searching online. Many expats and locals turn to websites like ExpatGo, SpareRoom, and Airbnb to find affordable accommodation and food. You can also search for apartments/houseshare rentals or room shares using sites like Couchsurfing or VRBO.

Another great way to save money on living expenses in Chiang Mai is by shopping at supermarkets located near your residence or at night markets where goods are discounted up to 50%. Finally, remember to always do your research before making any big spending decisions!

We recommend renting on Airbnb. It is a highly streamlined process, faster than going through a rental agency, because you don’t have to pay an upfront deposit to stay monthly.

  • Renting an apartment monthly from Airbnb will be the best option if you want to live on a budget in Chiang Mai, Thailand. On average, apartments in Chiang Mai, Thailand, cost $140 to $600 per month.
  •    Renting a home with two or more rooms will cost you around $600 or more per month. 
  •  You’ll have to choose between renting a flat, studio, 2+ bedroom apartment, sharing the rent, hostels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and Couchsurfing in Chiang Mai.
  •    To save money on total expenses, eat at the local food shops and markets in Chiang Mai, Thailand, shop at the local supermarkets, and look for an apartment in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in the surrounding areas close to local markets, local food stalls, supermarkets, or local transportation areas and rent a scooter. This is a fantastic tip.
  •    Digital Nomads in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Expats in Chiang Mai, Thailand, are just a few of the Facebook groups available For you. Facebook groups are a fantastic resource! It is an excellent place to start. 

When finding accommodation in Thailand, it’s important to do your research. The cost of rent can vary greatly depending on where you decide to live. In general, central areas are more expensive than suburbs or rural areas.

Monthly Cost Of Rent in Chiang Mai Thailand: Table Of Expenses 2024

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Rent and Accommodation in Chiang Mai, Thailand per month:


Average Monthly Rent and Accommodation In Chiang Mai, Thailand
USD $ Thai Baht USD/THB THB
Studio Apartment in Chiang Mai, Thailand$150 – $600Thai Baht THB 5328 – Thai Baht THB 21312
2 Bedroom Apartment in Chiang Mai, Thailand$500 – $1000Thai Baht THB 17760 – Thai Baht THB 35520
3+ Bedroom Apartment in Chiang Mai, Thailand$700 – $2000+Thai Baht THB 24864 – Thai Baht THB 71040
Hostels and CouchSurfing Per Month in Chiang Mai Thailand$100 – $300Thai Baht THB 3552 – Thai Baht THB 10,656

Cost Of Transportation in Chiang Mai, Thailand Explained

Cost Of Transportation in Chiang Mai Thailand

Public transport or renting a scooter may be a better option for those who don’t have a car or want to reduce their monthly expenses. I suggest renting a scooter monthly to explore Chiang Mai, Thailand, to its fullest potential. Budget around $100 to $300 per month in transportation and exploring Thailand. Also, if you use a taxi, tuk-tuk, or hire a taxi, always negotiate the price first. Only get in the taxi or tuk-tuk after clarifying the price first. This keeps you from getting scammed.

The public transportation system in Chiang Mai, Thailand consists of mainly 17 transportation options:

  • Try to rent a scooter monthly
  •   Use Grab Taxi
  •   Use Grab Motorbike taxi
  •   Songthaew taxi in Chiang Mai, Thailand
  •   find a tuk-tuk driver but make sure you negotiate the price
  •   Use a Normal Bangkok Taxi. Make sure you negotiate the price and make sure its metered
  •  Travel through Thailand on Night Sleeper trains!
  •    Carrier Vans
  •    Tour Buses
  •    Hire a private driver
  •    Rent a car, and This is the most expensive. I don’t recommend it, and Thailand has crazy traffic, so possible to damage your car.
  •    Use Ferries and take your rented scooter on it to explore different islands
  •    Cargo boats or ships
  •    use Water ferries
  •    Domestic flights to other islands
  •    Chartered seaplanes, which is extremely expensive
  •    Chartered helicopters are costly
  •    Use a kayak to get around the island.

Monthly Cost Of Transportation in Chiang Mai Thailand: Table of Expenses in 2024

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Public Transportation in Chiang Mai, Thailand per month:

Average Monthly Transportation Expenses in Chiang Mai, ThailandUSD $Thai Baht USD/THB THB
Monthly Transportation Costs in Chiang Mai, Thailand including scooter rental$100 – $300Thai Baht THB 3552 – Thai Baht 10656
Taxi, Grab taxi and Grab Taxi Rides Depending on distance per mile in Chiang Mai, Thailand$1 – $10Thai Baht THB 35.52 – Thai Baht THB 355.2


Best Cost of Flights To Chiang Mai Thailand Tips

Did you know you can fly one way to Chiang Mai, Thailand, affordably? This is How:

  1. If you Fly to Chiang Mai, Thailand One-Way From New York City, the cost is $450 per person.
  2.    If you Fly to Chiang Mai, Thailand, from Europe, Australia, and other Asian countries, the costs will be from $120 to $320 per person.
  3.    You Can Check On Google Flights here!
  4.    Also, if you Have Travel Credit Card Miles and frequent Flyer miles, you can fly to Thailand For almost free!
  5.    Try searching for low-cost airlines or fly during off-peak times or off-season times.

Cost Of Food In Chiang Mai Thailand Explained: Food Table of Expenses 2024

Mark Wiens in Chiang Mai Thailand
Street Food in Chiang Mai Thailand, Cost of food in Chiang Mai Thailand

Monthly Food Costs in Chiang Mai, Thailand, costs $210 to $700 per month. You can save money if you eat at local food shops, local markets, supermarkets, and street food. Do this, or you will spend too much at tourist food spots daily, which will cost you a lot and hurt your budget! Also, the local food is much better than any touristy western food.

The Thai Food in Thailand is truly world class and wonderful! Skip the touristy food spots and only eat at the local Thai street food and local food restaurants!

We have been all over the world and still think about and dream of the food we ate while living in Thailand for 2 years! Massaman curry, Pad Thai, and so much more! We can’t wait to move back to Thailand and eat street food! We will also be making a dedicated article on the best food in Thailand, so stay tuned for that. We will link that here!

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Food in Thailand per month:

Average Monthly Food Costs in Chiang Mai, ThailandUSD $Thai Baht USD/THB THB
Local Food Markets, Street food and Local Supermarkets Per month (Budget Food Costs) in Chiang Mai, Thailand$210 – $500Thai Baht THB 8915 – Thai Baht THB 17760
Eating out at Mid range restaurants and expensive restaurants per month (No Budget) In Chiang Mai, Thailand$800 – $1000 +Thai Baht THB 28416 – Thai Baht THB 35520

The average Thai person in Chiang Mai spends around 2,800 baht (US $85) per month on food expenses alone!


Cost of Healthcare in Chiang Mai Thailand

Medical Tourism is massive in Thailand. You can get the same care in Chiang Mai, Thailand, as you would back in the United States at 1/10th of the price back home. Many hospitals and clinics throughout Thailand provide high-quality care at reasonable prices. With many doctors that studied in the USA, UK, and Australia. I recommend researching the best hospitals for expats in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

We recommend The best travel health Insurance available by SafetyWing We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. It covers any health or medical procedure done.

We suggest you also have it, especially if you live as an expat in Chiang Mai, Thailand. We always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. They start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable!

Chiang Mai’s healthcare is extremely affordable compared to other places in the world. For example, the average cost of a hospital stay in Chiang Mai is around THB 6,000 (USD 190). This is much lower than the global average cost of USD $1000+). Additionally, the quality of care is excellent, and patients receive world-class treatment. Doctors are generally available even at late hours, which makes it easy to get help if you need it. A variety of hospitals and clinics in the city offer top-notch care for all types of medical needs.


Cost of Taxes in Chiang Mai, Thailand by Percentage

Here is in-depth information for the cost of Taxes in Chiang Mai, Thailand for each type of Tax and make sure to contact a local Thailand Tax Professional in Chiang Mai for more Information:

Personal Income Tax in Chiang Mai, Thailand

  • Tax Type: Personal Income Tax
  • Tax Rate: 0% – 35%
  • Important Information:
    • Progressive tax rates from 0% to 35% based on income levels.
    • First THB150,000 of income is tax exempt.
    • Top rate of 35% applies on income over THB5 million.

Value Added Tax (VAT) in Chiang Mai, Thailand

  • Tax Type: Value Added Tax (VAT)
  • Tax Rate: 7%
  • Important Information:
    • Levied on sale of most goods and services in Thailand.
    • Standard VAT rate is currently 7%
    • Some exemptions apply like basic foods.

Corporate Income Tax in Chiang Mai, Thailand

  • Tax Type: Corporate Income Tax
  • Tax Rate: 0% – 20%
  • Important Information:
    • Standard rate is 20% for most companies.
    • Small companies pay 15% on first THB300,000 profit.
    • Additional local taxes also apply.

Property Tax in Chiang Mai, Thailand

  • Tax Type: Property Tax
  • Tax Rate: 0.01% – 0.7%
  • Important Information:
    • Levied annually based on appraised rental value of property.
    • Rates range from 0.01% to 0.7% depending on location.
    • Additional local taxes may apply.

Customs Duties in Chiang Mai, Thailand

  • Tax Type: Customs Duties
  • Tax Rate: 0% – 80%
  • Important Information:
    • Levied on imported goods into Thailand.
    • Rates vary from 0% to 80% based on the product type.
    • FTAs reduce rates for trading partners.

Table of Tax Rates in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Tax Type in Chiang Mai, ThailandTax Rate in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Personal Income Tax0% – 35%
Value Added Tax (VAT)7%
Corporate Income Tax0% – 20%
Property Tax0.01% – 0.7%
Customs Duties0% – 80%

Main FAQS Section About Chiang Mai, Thailand

What is the Cost of Accommodation in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Cost of Accommodation in Chiang Mai, Thailand, costs around $140 to $600 per month.

What is the Cost Of Living in Chiang Mai, Thailand Vs the USA?

The Cost Of Living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is around 82% less than living in the USA, and the average monthly Cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is $580 to $1200 per month in Chiang Mai, Thailand vs $5100 to $8100 per month living in New York City, United States.

What is the Cost of Food in Chiang Mai, Thailand VS USA?

The Cost Of Food in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 52% less than in the United States. Monthly Food Costs in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is from $200 to $500 per month.

What is the Cost Of Rent in Chiang Mai, Thailand VS USA?

The Cost of Rent in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 82% less Than in the United States A 1 bedroom apartment costs $140 to $350 per month on average, and 1 bedroom Apartment in New York City, United States, Costs over $2000 per month.

What is the Cost Of Accommodation in Chiang Mai, Thailand vs the USA?

The Cost of Accommodation in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 82% less Than in the United States; a 1 bedroom apartment costs $150 to $350 per month on average, and 1 bedroom Apartment in New York City, United States, Costs over $2200 per month.

What is the Cost of Transportation in Chiang Mai, Thailand vs the USA?

The Cost of Transportation in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is 60% less than in The USA; monthly Transportation Costs in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Costs from $50 to $200 per Month.

What is the monthly cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

On average, the cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is around $1200 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other expenses like utilities and phone bills. 

How Much does it cost to live in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

Chiang Mai, Thailand, is one of the most cost-effective places to live in Asia. On average, living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, costs around $580 to $1200 per month. 

What is the Cost of Utilities in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Utilities in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Cost around $60 to $140 per month, depending on your energy consumption!

What are the Rental Expenses In Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in Chiang Mai is from $140 to $600.

What are the Expenses for a Single Person in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Expenses for a Single Person in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is from $620 to $1220 per month all expenses.

What is the average cost of Rent In Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Average cost of rent in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is around $140 to $620 Per Month. 

What is the average Cost of Accommodation In Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Average cost of accommodation in Thailand is $140 to $600 per month.

What is the average Cost of Transportation In Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The average cost of transportation in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is about $3 USD per day or $70 to $210 per month. This includes renting your scooter and everything from taxis to rental cars to buses and trains.

What is the Average cost of Utilities in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Average cost of Utilities in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is around $70 to $200 per month.

How much does a typical Thai person earn per year?

age Thai person earns around THB100,000 (USD3,800) per year. 

What is the average cost of rent, food, and utilities in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The average cost of rent, food, and utilities in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Costs around $620 to $1000 per month.

How much does it cost to live in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Cost to live in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Costs $580 to $1500 Per month for all expenses depending on your budget.

What is the Cost of Phone SIM and Internet Data In Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Cost of Phone Data and internet is around $15 to $35 per month with AIS, True move, or Dtac. I recommend AIS or True Move!

What is the Cost of Food in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

The Cost of Food in Chiang Mai, Thailand costs around $200 to $500 per month; try to eat at the local restaurants and street food for the best and cheapest food to stay on budget!

Is Chiang Mai, Thailand, a good place to live?

Yes, Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a great and safe place to Live! It is safer and more relaxed than living in the United States.


Conclusion on the Cost of Living in Chiang Mai Thailand

We hope that you have found this blog post helpful! We have summarized the cost of living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and provided a table of expenses, information on rent, accommodation, food costs, and more! We will be continually updating this blog post! Also, below are many excellent travel resources that will help you in your Journey around the world!

And We also made an entire article on the Cost of Living in Bangkok Thailand check it out here!

if you are interested in Phuket Thailand then Click here for The Cost of Living in Phuket Thailand!

And in General if you are interested in the And, The Cost of Living in Thailand check it out here!


Travel Resources and Reliable Sources For Thailand

  • Travel Insurance: We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. We suggest that you also have it, just in case other digital nomads live abroad, and we always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. SafetyWing is one of the few policies covering Covid-19, and they start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable! SafetyWing is perfect for Digital Nomads and long-term travelers!
  • Heath and Safety: We use the travel guides on the CDC website to research recommended precautions.
  • Official Thailand Tourism Board Tourist Friendly Site

If you want to keep up with our travels, go ahead and follow us on our travel page on Instagram @onelifepassportComment below what else you would like to know/see about our experiences traveling the world! Also, check out our YouTube Channel!

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