Accommodation in Bangkok
Bangkok is Thailand's capital and largest city. It's where you will have access to the most opportunities, the best nightlife and restaurants, huge modern shopping malls, Thailand's famous SkyTrain, and more.
Bangkok offers a wide variety of accommodations, so you are likely to find something that meets your preferences and budget. From a serviced apartment to a townhouse in the centre, there is something for everyone in this city that never sleeps — although prices do vary according to the neighbourhood and level of luxury.
Nearly half of the expatriates living in Bangkok choose to live in the central business district of Sukhumvit. However, housing prices in other areas of the city are considerably lower, and the other half of the expatriate community is spread out around Bangkok's suburbs where there are more options and space available.
When looking to rent accommodation in Bangkok, it is advisable to consider your daily needs and consider factors such as work and school. In Bangkok, as a result of heavy congestion, travelling even short distances by car can take a long time, so it is advisable to look for accommodation near public transport or your workplace. Moreover, the further you live from the main road and the BTS station, the cheaper the accommodation options available, so it is a question of weighing up your priorities.
Buy or rent in Bangkok?
A lot of expats who live in Bangkok, even for a long time, still opt for long-term rent. Buying property in Bangkok is quite complicated for a foreigner and comes with a lot of restrictions.
Foreigners are not allowed to own land outright in Thailand. However, Thai law allows foreigners to buy a condominium, so long as they pay for it with foreign currency. Alternatively, foreigners will need to invest at least THB 40 million in the Thai economy to legally be able to purchase a private residence of up to 1,600m² in the country. Those wishing to buy or build their own house usually do so through their Thai spouse or business partner.
As a result of these restrictions, many foreigners prefer to secure a long-term lease agreement. The law allows leases of up to 30 years but, if you sign a 30-year lease, make sure it is registered so that you will have recourse if your landlord tries to evict you prior to that time.
Important:
If you decide to purchase real estate in Thailand, it's essential that you consult with a lawyer and a real estate agent before making any final decisions.
Good to know:
Leases are only valid for three years if they are not registered at the Land Department.
Many leases contain renewal clauses that provide for a renewed 30-year lease once the initial 30-year period comes to an end. A renewal clause is a promise to renew a lease, but it is important to understand that it does not always mean an automatic renewal, as your landlord's cooperation is tantamount.
Types of accommodation in Bangkok
Serviced apartments
Serviced apartments do vary in Bangkok, depending on the location and the price. Most are nicely furnished and offer regular cleaning but do not expect it in all serviced apartments in Bangkok. Most of the expatriates are living in the central business district, which is the Sukhumvit area, wherein most well-established and known companies are situated, so expect that the prices are high in these areas.
Serviced apartments have the simplest furniture, everything you can see in a typical house: bed, wardrobe or closet, table, and aircon or electric fan. The bathroom contains a sink, and a shower, but not all of them have an electric water heater. Rent prices range from 10,000 to 25,000 THB per month.
Townhouses
Townhouses in Bangkok are composed of multiple floors and are mostly adjacent to other townhouses that can be seen in a row. Some are renting it for the use of having the lower ground for business purposes and the upper floor for personal use. Basically, townhouses are like multi-level apartments. Rent prices range from 12,000 to 25,000 THB per month or more than that depending on the size and location of the townhouse.
Condominiums
Condominiums in Thailand are very common and can be seen almost everywhere. Most expatriates in Bangkok prefer it as they feel more secure in it. Compared to serviced apartments and townhouses, condominiums have lots of services and amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, playground for kids, 24-hour security, parking space, cable for television and internet, and maintenance. If you have the budget, a luxury condominium is a very chic way to appreciate the bright lights of Bangkok from a home up high. Rent prices range from 8,000 to 50,000 THB per month or more than that depending on the size and location of the condominium.
Moo ban
It is also known as a housing estate. Moo bans are a housing community that comes in different sizes, shapes, prices, and characteristics. Some have amenities that include swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, parks, gym or fitness centres and restaurants.
The cost of renting a moo ban can vary a lot depending on the age, location, and quality of the build. Most are also located outside the city centre, so it is likely advisable for people who have decided to live in a moo ban, to have a car as well, or maybe be ready to commute. If you have a family and pets, then renting a house in a secure gated community could be a great option. Rent prices range from THB 10,000 to 100,000 per month depending on the location and how old the Moo Ban is.
Searching for accommodation in Bangkok
There are several websites that allow you to browse by price or area, which makes it convenient to do research and see what is out there. However, not all accommodation - especially the cheapest options - are listed on websites, so one of the best ways to search for accommodation in Bangkok is by physically walking around an area of town where you would like to live, and visiting apartment blocks that look suitable or houses that have 'For Rent' and signs outside.
All apartments in Bangkok have an information office on the ground floor that is usually open during working hours. So, if you are interested in renting in a particular apartment building, someone will usually be happy to show you a room and let you know the requirements. If you don't speak Thai, it is a good idea to go with a Thai friend who can translate and negotiate for you.
Also, don't forget to prepare a certain amount as almost all are requesting an initial payment of 2 months advance and one month deposit just in case you will just leave without telling them, or maybe some furniture was broken after staying. They will deduct the expenses you have incurred and will give back the deposit amount after the contract has ended.
It is also worth looking in the classified sections of the local English newspapers such as The Nation and The Bangkok Post. And if you have a higher budget and particular specifications, then it is a good idea to contact a real estate agent who will know the ins and outs of the city and various properties and will be able to find you accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Plus, expats forums can also be a good place to start when searching for accommodation or getting some advice from more experienced Bangkokians on where to rent in the city. Check out Bangkok Expats, Expats in Bangkok, Thailand Expats and others.
The best neighborhoods for expats in Bangkok
Finding the best neighborhood for expats in Bangkok is an almost impossible task. Not because there are no such neighborhoods. On the contrary, there are too many and they are too different. So, your choice of neighborhood will depend on what you are looking for in this big exciting city.
Here are a few options:
Thonglor
Thonglor is a hip and upscale neighborhood frequented by Thai high society. Debatably, this is the city's trendiest neighborhood — with the prices to match. Prices here start at about THB 45,000 per month.
However, you will be paying for convenience. In Thonglor, you are always working within walking distance from upscale dining spots, designer boutiques, cool bars, modern malls, and more. So, if you are looking to be in the midst of high-end action, Thonglor may just win you over.
Ekkamai
If you prefer a more middle-class setting, then you might feel more at home in Ekkamai. This neighborhood has more of a hipster vibe and lots of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from.
Ekkamai is right in the Sukhumvit area, which makes it easily accessible by the BTS SkyTrain. Plus, there is also the Eastern Bus Terminal.
Ekkamai is both trendy and traditional — and there are lots of housing options to choose from. Living here is easy, interesting, and a reasonable amount of fun.
Phrom Phong
Phrom Phong is another neighborhood on our list sitting on the BTS Sukhumvit line. It has a nice selection of cafes, art galleries, grocery shops and a park. Here, you will find a lot of stores selling Korean and Japanese products as this neighborhood is very popular with expats from these countries.
Sathorn
Sathorn is central Bangkok and one of the most expensive areas to stay in the city. There are lots of luxury accommodation options as well as gated communities with gyms and swimming pools.
There are lots of things to do in Sathorn and you will have easy access to lots of modern dining, eventful nightlife and easy shopping. The neighborhood is close to the BTS, which makes commuting a breeze.
Lat Phrao
Lat Phrao is a great option for expats with families. This area is home to some of the best international schools in the city and has lots of parks and open areas.
Traveling to and from this neighborhood is easy and convenient. It's close to both the BTS and MRT as well as the Northern Bus Terminal.
Rent here is very affordable too, starting at THB 10,000 per month.
Ari
If you are looking to get away from the busy Bangkok, consider Ari. This neighborhood is not centrally located, which may be an inconvenience for some. However, if you want to stay somewhere quieter, slower, and more laid-back than Bangkok's constant race, this may be the place for you.
Ari is a safe and clean area, with a lot of cafes, restaurants and bars. Rent here starts at about THB 16,000 per month.
Bang Na
Another neighborhood that is a bit further away from the center is Bang Na. It's an up-and-coming neighborhood with lots of different accommodation options for every budget. It's also a good place to be if you want to get away from the skyscrapers and prefer a more low-rise scenery. Rent prices here start at THB 10,000 a month.
Udom Suk
Udom Suk is part of Bangkok's central business district (CBD). It may have fewer expat-oriented restaurants and bars, but this may also be a good thing for those who want to experience the real Thailand. Here, you will find lots of smaller budget-friendly Thai restaurants, which will be great finds for those who prefer authentic local flavors. Here, you will also find lots of reasonably priced massage places, shops and other amenities. The
Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center (BITEC) is also located close by.
On Nut
On Nut has lots to offer: from reasonable rent to easy access to Bangkok's centre. More and more expats are moving to On Nut — even though the area was originally home to mostly Thai nationals.
Living here is convenient, with a good number of supermarkets, shops, cafes and restaurants. There are also quite a few coworking spaces, which makes this area a good choice for digital nomads.
Phra Khanong
Phra Khanong is a convenient neighborhood along the BTS Sukhumvit line. Here, you will find more affordable accommodation and actual houses to rent instead of condos or apartments. This neighborhood is primarily Thai but there are expats living here too. Those who move here like Phra Khanong for its proximity to Bangkok's commercial areas and the area's quieter, more small-town feel.
By far, this is not an exhaustive list of Bangkok neighborhoods to consider. But this may be a good base to get you started as you explore the city on your own.
How to rent accommodation in Bangkok
To rent accommodation in Bangkok and generally in Thailand, you will usually need to provide a copy of your passport, a copy of your work permit and proof of income. If you are renting a property through a real estate agency, you may also be subject to a credit check and be required to provide a character reference from your employer (but these are quite rare).
Most rental agreements are signed for six months to one year. However, the duration of the lease and the rental price are negotiable with the owner and can start from three months.
Generally, a lease and security deposit are all that is needed to secure property in Thailand. In most cases, you can expect to pay a two-month deposit along with the first month's rent. However, some Thai landlords request a three-month deposit. At the end of the lease, the deposit should be returned, as long as the property and furnishings are in good condition. If you leave before the end date of your lease agreement, you will forfeit your deposit unless specified in the contract. Make sure to carefully check the property before signing the lease and take note of any existing damage. It's also standard practice to take inventory of all the furnishings and appliances that the property comes with.
Take note that foreigners are not allowed to use their rented accommodation for commercial purposes and are not allowed to sublease either as it is a violation of Thai law (Condo Act Sec 17.1 as follows):
"In the case where a space in the condominium is set aside as a place to carry out the business, the system on entering and exiting such an area shall be specifically set up in order to prevent the disturbance of the peaceful enjoyment of the joint owners.
No person shall be permitted to engage in any trade transactions in the condominium except it is a trade transaction in the area of the condominium designated in accordance with paragraph one) that disallows condominiums and apartments for short-term renting."
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