ALTHOUGH the minimum wage in Bangkok was increased to 400 baht a day in July this year, the metropolis is very expensive with the cost of living seen to be higher than this for many workers, Thai Rath newspaper said today (Nov. 17).
While it is a city full of opportunities, income streams, and new experiences, the cost of living is excruciatingly high, making it hard to resist complaining, “Bangkok is so expensive!”.
Is Bangkok really expensive?
Even with 400 baht a day minimum wage, which is higher than many provinces, the sky-high cost of living, whether it is food, housing, or transportation, the total almost outstrips the minimum wage for many.
Let’s start with “wages,” which are like the fuel of life. Is the minimum wage enough to cover the cost of living in Bangkok?
In percentage it seems like wages are increasing quite a bit, but what about the expenses?
Food costs
A field survey by the Thai Real Estate Information Centre, conducted in the Silom-Surawong downtown area, found that from 2012, when food prices were 31 baht per plate, 13 years later, they have now increased to 64 baht per plate, a 106.5% hike.
While many people think food prices aren’t that high, considering the average annual increase of 5.7%, it is higher than inflation. One reason food prices continue to rise may be due to high rents. For example, some businesses rent space of around 18 square metres at 60,000 baht per month.
House rents
It is not just renting space to make a living that is high, housing is just as expensive. Recently, Bangkok was ranked as the most expensive city in the world, relative to income (according to the DWS Housing Affordability Review 2025). This is because middle-class families in Bangkok renting accommodation (two-bedroom apartments) would be paying approximately 79% of net income after tax.
In Thailand, the exact amount of rent Bangkokians pay may not be clear. However, the 2024 Household Economic and Social Survey indicates that over 21.3% of Thai household expenses are for housing and household appliances, which is the second-largest proportion after food, beverages, and tobacco (35.9%).
Fares
One of the biggest complaints among Bangkokians these days is the BTS Skytrain fare. On Nov. 1 the BTS Green Line increased its fares as follows:
– Old price: Extension fares were 15 baht for the entire line, with a maximum total price of 62 baht.
– New price: Extension fares start at 17-45 baht, with a maximum total price of 62 baht.
Those who must use the BTS extension may have to pay three times more. This doesn’t include the cost of connecting to other train lines, motorcycle taxis, baht buses (aka songthaew), or buses. Living in Bangkok, you will spend at least 100 baht per day, equivalent to 3,000 baht per month, or 15-20% of your minimum income on transportation. This is higher than the United Nations estimate that appropriate travel expenses should not exceed 10% of income.
Although the co-pay programme is currently helping to alleviate some of the burden, this policy will only be in effect for two months, while people will have to deal with Skytrain prices rising as usual.
Life in Bangkok is expensive so how should we manage our money?
Thai Rath Money encourages you to think about money in three main ways: Firstly “controlling expenses” with those working hard who do not have the time to earn additional income should start by keeping a record of their income and expenses to identify where they are spending on “non-essentials” or what they could reduce. For example, some people realise they have overspent because they forgot to look for discounts. They can make a list of what they need and make worthwhile purchases when promotions occur.
Second, cultivate the discipline of “saving before spending.” If you focus on everything you need, you won’t save. A simple formula might start with 50% (daily expenses) / 30% (purchasing things you want) / 20% (savings), or adjust the proportions as desired. Thinking first and planning first will help your finances flow smoothly.
Finally, “increase income.” Once you have a clear picture of your expenses and savings, if you know your current income is not enough to meet your life goals, you need to earn more, this could be by looking for a job.
Even though Bangkok’s cost of living is high, making a financial plan can help solve life’s challenges.
CAPTIONS:
Top – Bangkok skyline. Photo Thai Rath
Front Page – BTS Skytrain running through Bangkok. Photo – Tony (CC-BY-2.0)
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