Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Thailand
Thailand, known for its rich culture, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes, has become a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a balance between work and adventure. Here are ten cities and towns in Thailand that offer an ideal lifestyle for remote workers.
Chiang Mai
With its affordable cost of living, excellent internet connection, and vibrant community of digital nomads, Chiang Mai is a top choice for many. Visit the historic Old City or explore the lively Night Bazaar. The monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood ranges from $300 to $600. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around $50, and a moderate dinner with one drink can be enjoyed for approximately $10.
Phuket provides a perfect blend of work and play. Digital nomads can enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as the island's lively nightlife. Rent for a furnished apartment in Patong Beach or Kata Beach ranges from $500 to $1,000 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $70, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $15. Bangkok, the bustling capital city, is packed with opportunities for exploration and networking. Digital nomads can visit attractions such as the Grand Palace and Chatuchak Weekend Market. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood like Sukhumvit or Siam costs between $800 and $1,500. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $70, and a moderate dinner with one drink is approximately $15. Located on the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is famous for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Digital nomads can work from cafes near the beach or explore local markets. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood ranges from $400 to $800. A week's worth of groceries for one person costs around $60, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $10. Pattaya is known for its lively nightlife, but it also offers a great environment for digital nomads. Work from cafes and co-working spaces, then explore the city's attractions such as the Sanctuary of Truth and Jomtien Beach. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs between $500 and $1,000. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $60, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $15. Koh Samui is another popular island destination for digital nomads. With its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and excellent internet connection, it's an ideal place to work and play. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood ranges from $600 to $1,500. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $80, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $15. Located near Chiang Mai, Mae Rim is a quiet and peaceful town surrounded by nature. Digital nomads can work from cafes in the town or from their private villas. Monthly rent for a furnished villa ranges from $400 to $1,200. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $50, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $10. Korat is a historic city located in the northeastern region of Thailand. Digital nomads can explore the city's temples, museums, and markets. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood ranges from $300 to $600. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $50, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $10. Udon Thani is a large city located in the northeastern region of Thailand. It offers a great environment for digital nomads with its excellent internet connection, affordable cost of living, and quiet atmosphere. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood ranges from $300 to $600. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $50, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $10. Lampang is a historic city located in the north of Thailand. Digital nomads can explore the city's temples, museums, and ancient wats. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood ranges from $300 to $600. A week's worth of groceries for one person is around $50, and a moderate dinner with one drink is about $10. Wherever you choose to settle down in Thailand, you're sure to find a vibrant community of like-minded digital nomads, excellent food, and breathtaking surroundings to inspire your work and fuel your adventures. In Chiang Mai, consider staying in the Nimman or Old City areas for easy access to cafes, co-working spaces, and local attractions. Popular restaurants for young people include Khao Soi Mae Sai and Dash! Restaurant & Bar. In Phuket, Patong Beach and Kata Beach offer a great selection of furnished apartments and are close to popular restaurants and nightlife. Try Andaman Vegan Restaurant or Suay Restaurant & Bar for delicious meals. In Bangkok, Sukhumvit and Siam are popular areas for digital nomads, with plenty of cafes, co-working spaces, and restaurants. Try Khao San Road for authentic Thai street food, or check out the vegan-friendly The Veganerie Bangkok. In Hua Hin, consider staying in the central area near the beach for easy access to cafes and local attractions. Try Cafe Del Mar or The Salty Mango for delicious meals and a great atmosphere. In Pattaya, Jomtien Beach and Central Pattaya offer a great selection of furnished apartments and are close to popular restaurants and nightlife. Try Kabuki Japanese Restaurant or The Beach House for delicious meals. In Koh Samui, consider staying in the Chaweng or Lamai areas for easy access to cafes, co-working spaces, and local attractions. Try The Fisherman's Village or Arambhara for delicious meals and a great atmosphere. In Mae Rim, consider staying in a private villa for a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Many villas come with their own kitchens, allowing you to prepare your own meals. For delicious Thai food, try Baan Suan Krua Thai. In Korat, consider staying in the city center for easy access to cafes, co-working spaces, and local attractions. Try Khao Soy Mae Sai or Sab Lay Dang for delicious Thai meals. In Udon Thani, consider staying in the city center for easy access to cafes, co-working spaces, and local attractions. Try Khao Soi Mae Sai or The Riverside Restaurant for delicious Thai meals. In Lampang, consider staying in the city center for easy access to cafes, co-working spaces, and local attractions. Try Khao Soi Mae Sai or The Salad Concept for delicious meals.Phuket
Bangkok
Hua Hin
Pattaya
Koh Samui
Mae Rim
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat)
Udon Thani
Lampang
Where to Stay & Eat:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote
Thailand Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Thailand on our Thailand forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Thailand by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Thailand.
Digital Nomads in Thailand offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Thailand.
Advice for people renting and buying real estate in Thailand.