Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and immigrants can definitely confirm this claim. There are plenty of options here to settle in as travelers can either travel north to the beautiful mountainside and the Golden Triangle, or opt for an island vibe in the south. No matter where you choose to live, the kingdom has great accommodations and an abundance of adventures waiting for you.
Thailand’s 10 best places to live
1st father
This small mountain town north of Chiang Mai attracts many nature lovers and those looking for the bohemian way of life. Known for its diverse, well-connected community driven by a mutual love for nature, art and wellness, father is a great place for those who enjoy a slower life.
The community has its roots in Burmese and Chinese immigrants who created the multinational atmosphere before crowds of western tourists arrived. Now the village retains its bohemian charm and is focused on the growth and improvement of the city. Here, nature lovers can take part in reforestation projects or volunteer with ethnic minorities to help them lead a better life.
father
2. Ao Nang, Krabi
This is the place if you want to be close to Phuket’s amenities but not in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Ao Nang is bursting with natural beauty and is perfect for long-term expats. The laid-back beach town is close enough to airports, hospitals, and shopping, but far enough away to provide peaceful privacy for residents.
Additionally, the area has an old-world charm that emphasizes natural attractions like the rock climbing spots at Railay Beach and island hopping. So if you like adventure sports nearby, without the crowds of tourism, this is definitely the place to go to settle down. In addition, the local economy is still alive as it is powered by like-minded local businesses and immigrant-owned businesses and keeps its future bright.
Ao Nang, Krabi
3. Hua Hin
The coastal city of Hua Hin is attractive to those who still want to reach Bangkok by car. However, the slower pace of life is definitely appealing, along with the ocean backdrop. Known as the Bangkok vacationer playground, it is teeming with activities and plenty of shopping.
Additionally, golf enthusiasts will enjoy the world-class golf courses that are popular with expats and locals alike. And if you’re looking to retire in Thailand, this may be the best place as the expat retirement community is quite large, which makes it easy to connect with others.
Hua Hin
4. Nimmanhaemin, Chiang Mai
Nimmanhaemin is the perfect place for those who want to live in the north, in a place that still offers all the conveniences and advantages of a big city. However, this city in Chiang Mai is definitely slower and more relaxed than Bangkok, and has been drawing visitors for decades. With a lower cost of living than Bangkok and much cooler weather, most immigrants settle here.
If you are looking for permanent accommodation, you can choose from simple apartments to luxurious ones. And the area has more affordable restaurants and shops than the tourist-populated old town. If you’re a digital nomad, there are also plenty of co-working spaces and cafes in the neighborhood. So this is the place in Northern Thailand if you want the feel of a bigger city but the cost of living in a smaller city.
Nimmanhaemin, Chiang Mai
5. Sathorn, Bangkok
Although Bangkok is known for its heavy traffic and exciting attractions, Sathorn is a great place to settle down if you want to be with a quieter group of expats and locals. Since the area is on the Chao Phraya River, it remains centrally located, but the accommodations are much cheaper. You can find upscale apartments here at a much cheaper price than in the rest of Bangkok.
Sathorn combines the comfort of the city with its natural surroundings as it is close to the Lumphini Park. It is also home to a growing number of immigrants looking to access Sukhumvit without the high cost of living. Being on the river, taking a ferry is easy, Sathorn itself is a mix of Bangkok’s famous nightlife and local charm.
Sathorn, Bangkok
6. Kanchanaburi
This western province is known for taking in tired ex-Bangkok residents as it offers a break from city life. In addition, it offers low accommodation prices and wonderful local life that is absolutely refreshing for those looking to break out of a big city.
Attracting retirees and English teachers, Kanchanaburi is a great place to meet like-minded professionals. Here it is tempting to be far from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok but still close enough to get there when you need it. Nature lovers love Kanchanaburi as it is home to Erawan National Park, which is one of the best parks in Thailand.
Kanchanaburi
7. Koh Pha Ngan
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Pha Ngan is known for its bohemian island culture that focuses on health and wellness. This tiny island offers the perfect compromise between local Thai life and the excitement of mass tourism. It is known for its full moon parties as well as top notch yoga and meditation retreats.
However, its reputation as a party island is misleading as local expats describe the island as calm and reserved. Many nature lovers enjoy the island as sustainable life initiatives are very popular here. In addition, the immigrant community is well connected and friendly. And the more built-up Koh Samui is just a boat ride away if you need more amenities.
Koh Pha Ngan
8. Chiang Rai
This northern Thai city is smaller and quieter than neighboring Chiang Mai, and its allure is a nature lover’s dream. With lots of adventurous activities like hiking and game viewing, Chiang Rai is a retreat that enables a quieter life.
Since it has a lot in common with Chiang Mai, it differs in that it does not attract many tourists. Although there are plenty of bars and restaurants around, it’s still a mini version of a much larger city. So if you long for this slower life, you won’t be disappointed with its natural and low-key atmosphere. Waterfalls, motorcycle tours, and rock climbing are some of the popular activities that draw like-minded people to this beautiful city.
Chiang Rai
9. Pak Nam Pran
Pak Nam Pran is a great choice for those who want to experience something amazing. As an emerging community, this city in Pranburi Province already has a small immigrant community. However, the appeal to a younger group of entrepreneurs is evident as the local industry is focused on ecotourism and sustainability. In addition, the residents here actively participate in organic community gardens, farmers’ markets and craft businesses.
In addition, the government, together with Thai and Chinese partners, has a personal interest in sustainable growth in the region. The government is also rebuilding the beach and other areas to prepare the area for more visitors. So those who come are sure to find plenty of things to participate in, including lots of outdoor activities.
Pak Nam Pran
10. Khanom
Nature lovers who want to be close to the sea but not isolated on an island will love Khanom. Having not yet experienced the influx of mass tourism, this Nakhon Si Thammarat town is a hidden gem. Here you can see the rare pink dolphins and other exotic marine life without having to board a ferry. Also, being on the mainland, it is easy to travel to other areas.
Khanom’s pristine beaches and jungle-capped mountains make it an absolute paradise to stay. In addition, his rubber, fruit and other farms are testament to his charming, local way of life. And with loads of friendly locals, you can experience tropical beaches here while in a close-knit community that is untouched by tourists.
Khanom
Known as a nature lover’s dream, Thailand is full of tropical rainforests and outdoor activities. These places above are great places to settle down where local Thai food and culture abound. Immigrants are sure to find a place to call home in this beautiful country, be it by the sea or in the mountains.
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