I totally agree with the final comments Les. The wife and I are having a break from Korat and staying in Hua Hin right now paying 14,900 for a month for a nice room 2 mins from the beach, so many options here.
I live in Hua Hin and it’s great but prices have been rising drastically in the last year as Phuket people relocate to Hua Hin. Phuket people are willing to pay 50% more than Hua Hin residents because they are accustomed to higher prices in Phuket.
Thanks for all the useful price info, Les. I’m looking to check out some places along the Gulf of Thailand early next year. Really had enough of the U.K. but unfortunately my stock investments all went south so will have to wait for an upturn until I can realise my dream. Just need to build up some funds to supplement the state pension and then I’m outta here
Thanks for the video, Les. Greetings from Isan. We live on about the same though we own our house. Regarding the allowance for your wife, I gave mine the same amount (15k baht) when I retired here nine years ago. Now I give her the lot each month. The idea being to train her to use money correctly. She writes everything down and we put everything on a simple spreadsheet.. It has taught her how to do a budget. Regarding your costs, I did not see any allowances for holidays & travel, replacing or updating household items like broken furniture, whitegoods, new toys like phones, computers, drones etc. Yes, a lot of them are one-offs but they are still over & above your normal living costs. Keep up the good work helping others who are thinking of living in Thailand.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment, These costs were based on what we live on. We make it fit Our Normally the landlady or Landlord would replace broken items if needed. Our Landlady did this with no problem I hear others are not always so lucky. So we can make savings as can anyone a washing machine broke ant 6,000 Baht for a new one we fitted that into the monthly expense and we managed. Holidays well I do dip into my savings for big holidays but the money is returned slowly. In short we manage with what we have. Our Winter 9 day holiday hotel costs are 9,000 Baht we know its happening so we make plans.
Thanks for sharing and you don’t need to explain yourself on your personal choices I and everyone here should respect your right and just be thankful you are sharing great information with us. Thank you my friend we appreciate it.
Hi Les,My wife and I are counting the days to the 29th of April.One way flights booked,condo booked for a month till we get the retirement visa ball rolling.Its winter here in Durham now and I keep saying to my wife I won't be shivering for much longer lol.
Thanks for your comment April is just around the corner so will be here soon, Make this Christmas special as the next one will be on the Beach. I am enjoying Christmas on the beach this year. I will have a beer for you. Best wishes for your future I hope all goes well for you both.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream You are welcome Les. Thanks for all the videos you do. Your sincerity, simplicity, and willingness to help has been instrumental in influencing the decisions being made when it comes to retirement, post divorce, life in Thailand, and tips with getting the transition right the first time. You are appreciated.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream Les how do I find out about the price of medications in Thailand.... Metformin, omeprazole a few others too & eyedrops monopost 50ml please xx vee
Thanks Les, am here at the moment asking questions and gathering information. Met 2 blokes within the first few days who have given me answers on most things and plenty of reassurance. The big one will be my state of health when the time comes 🙏👍
@@RetiredandLivingthedreamThanks Les. I intend to come a good few times before retirement for at least a month. I'm thinking I should know whether or not it's for me by then. Many thanks for what you're doing 🙏👍
These numbers are all on point. Thanks. One question, when you renew your retirement visa, do you still have to show 800000 BHT in the bank or just bank records that show monthly deposits of more than 65,000 BHT per month over the course of the year ?
Hi I have a marriage visa so only need to show either 400,000 in the bank or 40,000 a month income method, I use the income method. Thanks for watching.
Hi Les... another excellent video and particularly interested to hear what you budget for food as we'll be in a similar situation when we relocate to Thailand from NZ in 2026, combining home cooking, street food and the occasional visit to western-style restaurants. We did spend a couple of days in Rayong when we were over in June and considered renting but have decided to build on the wife's land up north east. It costs more initially but does mean we have more money to spend on travel and other things as well as putting more back into the local community and not into some landlord's pocket! Keep up the great work and we might catch up for a beer one day in the future as we'll definitely be back around Rayong for a visit sometime.
I think you're going to be surprised at how cheap it is to build on existing land in Isaan. We built 2 houses on my wife's land. First one the construction costs were $10,000 USD. 2 story, 2 bedroom. Thai style house meaning no A/C or hot water. I wasn't happy with it so we built another Western style house. Single story, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, A/C and hot water in the shower. $30,000 USD grand total.
Another suggestion. While planning my move to Thailand I spent a few months tracking every single dime I spent on food. That way I could get an accurate gauge of what me and my Thai wife were spending in the US. It surprised me that we spent nearly $400/week on food. It's a bit over half of that in Thailand but that's because we shop at Tops and Big C to get some of my American food.
Hi Les, many thanks for sharing the updated cost of living video. 60,000 baht is quite high, but it does include your wife’s allowance, which is also generous (not that I am criticizing you for that). The other costs seem about as low as possible. My dream was to retire to Thailand, but I eventually decided against it because of health considerations. I am 71 and suffer from a heart condition and diabetes, so insurance would be both exorbitant and pretty useless because of the exclusions if I came to live here. I could take a chance and hope to get back to the US if/when I have a problem, but that would mean continuing to pay my Medicare part B and private supplementary insurance at a cost of $430 per month. I could rent out my small house, but after paying the private community assessments ($275) and property taxes, I would not make much. On the positive side, once I get so old I need someone to look after me, that would be much cheaper in Thailand. So maybe I will change my mind. In the meantime I intend to spend a few months every year in Thailand. Cheers, Colin
I have done a video on assisted living here in Thailand and am working on another video and it gives you some idea on the cost to live here on assisted living. I understand having health problems it comes to us all one day. No one wants the old people.th-cam.com/video/LNrEBggWKgk/w-d-xo.html
£1400 a month is a bargain considering for rent alone without bills in York for a 3 bed semi is the same price. I’m guessing it would be double at least for the same lifestyle in the UK. Granted gone are the days when Thailand was super cheap but still a good deal
Great video Les, I live in Florida (originally from Leeds)with my American girlfriend and we are toying with the idea of moving over to Thailand because of the great standard of living, I’m 67 in April so a little concerned about my health living there, but the insurance seems pretty good from what you said, thanks again for sharing 😊
Thank you Les for the breakdown of costs. I am planning on moving to Thailand in 2025 to retire. Next two years or less planning on saving and max out 401k.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream Very helpful Les. I’m moving over with my Thai wife of 17 years in 2026 hopefully. Probably got enough savings/pension etc to do it now or next year or in 2025, but we’d rather save that bit more to make sure we’ve enough in the pot. These cost of living videos are very useful. We’re going to be living up in Buriram and we already have a plot of land with savings to build a house, so our monthly costs should be relatively low.
I only have 1 year left to work. and plans are to move to Thailand, summer 2025. But due to social security and pension, we have to wait until summer 2026 for a permanent move.
Really appreciate this content! Can I ask you what health insurance company you have? You say you pay about 2000thb a month. Everywhere I search I would have to pay about 9000thb a month, and I’m 37 years old. We’re planning to move in a few years. Have a great day!
I transfer money regular from Chase to my Thai bank. Don't need 2 factor. If your bank requires it, set up email as the 2nd factor instead of your phone. Or you can set up a schedule transfer each month that never expires.
well done les, I'm from liverpool live in California its broken there's only one way out its no good great video keep them coming one bedroom in California 3000 dollars crazy next generation has no chance here in usa, thx les god bless,
Thanks for watching, The Debt ceiling can't rise forever the bubble will burst one day. The World has gone crazy, living here we are in a bubble for sure but it is nice being able to afford a good lifestyle with a little money compared to the west.
It's a good video. It is a little on the cheap side. For instance I pay 2,274THB a month for cable but I share it with my sister-in-law next door and she has 2 kids in school who need a good internet for their homework. I also pay for cable TV which costs about the same. I buy top level medical insurance which costs about $290USD a month, but that allows me to use international hospitals like Bumrungrad and BNH. In-patient and out-patient. This is not to criticize your video. Nice house and with the lifestyle you describe you can live just fine on the budget you describe.
Hi thanks for your comment and taking time to watch, everyone lives on a Budget at all levels, I live within my means and am happy with the income and what it provides. Thanks for watching.😎
Well done, Les! I hear Thais avoid basements due to the shallow water table. Seems a basement could provide geo-coolong? Have you ever researched this? Thanks.
I understand the principle but I can only work with what I have, we manage and work towards a cheaper way of living. Renewable is the way buy this will take time. Thanks for watching.
No it will not cool it will be hot and humid in the basement. Some big buildings have underground parking and it is hot in there. Speaking of which: I saw an earthern house in Thailand with very thick walls made of clay and double roof. It was always cool inside.
Hi Les I’m hoping to move over next year. I’ve visited many times. I hoping to live in Jomtien , I’ve got £120 k to last me 10 years til my pension starts. Just doable I think, what do you think? Thanks. Mike
Les currently lives on roughly 700,000 baht per year, if we add on 2% inflation every year, by year 10, his cost of living will be 850,000 baht per year or roughly 71,000 baht per month.
Hi Mike 1,000 a year is doable for sure it depends on what you want, If i moved to the Wife's farm I would have no rent to pay and the house its a nice house. Living in the village would be so cheap so I could live on 30 ,000 a month easy. Living in a city you still can live on this amount for sure, I know a guy in the bar every night a lady friend helps him out once a week ( wink wink ) and all on the State pension of 800 a month.
Hi Les, it’s quite interesting for me to know that I can live in Thailand within 50,000 baht a month (minus wife allowance). I don’t drink, I don’t smoke , and I don’t have any plans to get married or have babies, and I don’t spend on hookers. So, technically, my expenses, would be so low? I’m finding it a bit incredible. Can you also please share any resources that I can have a look buy/lease(long term) a house without being dependent on a Thai national? Another question , sorry for being so curious, how easy or difficult it is for a foreigner to live in a place like yours without knowing any Thai.
I am lucky mosquito's do not bother me much I must not be their taste. Sometimes when on Holiday my wife gets bitten more than me, whilst they are biting her they are leaving me alone. Thanks for your comment.
Thailand is a Buddhist country so they value life but there are plenty of Soi dogs with broken legs skin infections etc etc as the Thai people do not think the same about dogs as we do in the West. This is sad to see but it is what it is. Thanks for your comment.
I had one question off topic regarding the spouse visa. Would you recommend going through an agency or doing it yourself ? Thanks Les from a damp & Cold Ireland. Can’t wait for January for the flight back to Thailand
I live in Bkk, also from Ireland. I get an agent to do my visas. I simply post my passport to my agent, they will ask for certain bits of paper and photos, all of which can be sent via my phone, pay the fee then a week or so later my passport is sent back. No stress or drama. Thai Visa Centre can be found on FB, they are in Bkk and doing a special right now on visas. Top class company if you are considering an agent.
You said you spend 500 baht per month on car maintenance; do you have insurance on the car other than the standard government insurance? I am paying 15,000 baht per year for insurance on a Toyota Hilux Pickup Truck.
Interestingly I give my wife an allowance of 14k/month for the same reasons as yourself.Its so she doesn't have to ask me for money every time she needs something. At 1st I gave it to her monthly but that soon changed to her asking for advances half way through. I now have it transferred to her account every Sunday am. lol I'm slowly trying to get her used to budgeting herself for when I'm gone and she receives her Survivor benefit pension. Its only going to be about 10k once a month for life so she'll forced to learn.Our house and vehicles are all paid for so hopefully she'll be okay. She has other assets so I think I worry too much.
Thanks for that, my wife is very good with her finances Above normal and I am happy of that, my wife and family are all hard workers and have never asked for a penny from me and never will. I provide for my wife and when I am gone she is also provided for. I know a couple of Thai lady's their partner died leaving them with nothing but a bill to cremate them, no insurance no pension. Thanks for watching.
Hi les I was in Thailand for three weeks until last Wednesday third time in years , this being without my late wife staying in Pathum Thani Doing the usual tourist stuff lots and lots of buses mini cabs and trains and owe my god a motorcycle taxi never again , would like to live in Thailand permanently but have a few health issues
Hi Les, thanks dor sharing. Does your wife have health insurance or does she goes to government hospitals if needed? I am missing the costs of mobile providers like True or IAS. How much does spend on two phones?
My wife uses the Public hospitals she has basic insurance with the public hospitals only. If in Korat the price starts from 30 Baht. We had to visit the Public hospital here in Rayong as she did not feel well for a number of days, Everything done within the hour and Seen the Doctor and medication 550 Baht.
lookin at retireing in thai in a few years at 60yo with my thai wife,not shore on location but want to be out of the tourist area .we have a house in phuket but im over the crowds . 1000bt a moth seams small for fuel . as it would cost 2000bt to fill tank . any how the health insurance i would love to hear about that what company is that and what does it cover. also social activities what do you do eg, ride bike /play golf. do you have a comunity social group. how good is your thai lamguage .also what visa system do u use. i woul love to learm more to make my jurny easier
Hi and thanks for watching, We have a Nissan Alimera to fill it from empty is only1,300 Baht, we stay local shop local so that's about our cost. Small trips to 7/11 we use the scooter. Health Insurance I pay 25,000 baht for 700,000 baht worth of cover. I did an interviewed with a rep from Pacific Cross here is the link to the video and contact details so you can ask what you want. th-cam.com/video/-eg9xY_-2_A/w-d-xo.html We do have social groups we socialize around friends houses etc we have a brunch club every week of between 6 and 12 guys. I don't play golf we don't do bars on a regular basis. but we do holiday quite a bit at least 3 to 4 every year. Also visiting my wife's farm and family in Korat takes up time. Visa I am on the Marriage visa lots of paperwork but not impossible. My Thai is very poor it is one thing I cant do here. best wishes for your future in Thailand.
Your health insurance costs seem ridiculously low in comparison to what other TH-camrs are stating. Who are you getting your health insurance from and what does it cover
Heart and Diabetes expect UK £400 per month minimum healthcare costs - what he quoted is a JOKE!!! He was a Fireman before? Keep dousing out the flames and don't mess around with healthcare costs
My premium is what it is under 25,000 Baht for 700,000 baht of cover. Hi my costs are low because when I took out the policy 10 years ago I have never made a claim If you have medical conditions then yeas you pay. I had an interview with Pacific Cross and Loic answered questions on health insurance have a watch th-cam.com/video/-eg9xY_-2_A/w-d-xo.html
I live in Thailand aged 64 with no pre existing conditions and pay 40000 baht a year with Pacific cross to cover me for 3 million baht premium plus plan. I would not feel comfortable going for less!
Hi Les, I am thinking of retiring 2025. I have a girlfriend in Bua Yai and probably stay around that area. I will have a small lump sum and then about 50000 baht a month until my state pension kicks in. I am just worried about the health insurance costs. I am 63 and pretty healthy. Good video and info.
Good on you Les you look very happy that's about what we live on in Melbourne and the Thai wife like the weather here better me I hate the rules regulations government control even old age pension if your Lucky enough to make 67 in good health is only about 1800AUD a month but if you go live in Thailand they cut it down a couple of hundred you just can't win so good on you having complete freedom after 30yrs in the fire brigade I tell our son stay in the Australian Navy 20 years get a pension for life he will only be 40 laughing especially if he wants to go back to Thailand which he doesn't same as his mum hates the heat and humidity Thai people who come to Australia love the climate
Send me a email with your budget and when your looking to start your stay and for your information living in this area you need transport. Cheers Les. lesliepearson58@yahoo.com
No return to the NHS if you are not classed as UK resident. Even when you eventually are classed as resident, join the ever expanding waiting list (8 million, if correct) Cheaper and better to stay in Thailand. You take your chances 😊
All Thai girls are Ordinary but some work in places they would not normally chose to work. Not all Bar Girls are bad, they are also looking to get a better life. Bar girls get a poor reputation but there is good and bad about every profession. Go with your gut instinct a nice person is and will always be a nice person. Seek and you will find.
i doubt very much that you would be able to work in Thailand, very difficult for farangs to get a work permit and at 33 yrs of age you have over 30 years to go before the pension. Unless of course you have enough money
You give the wife 15000bt a month! Haha My wife gets 40,000bt a month! She gets 6000bt every Friday and 500bt every day for the morning market! We live in Chiang Rai area!
Ok mate no worries ,, no in no way was that offensive , I was merely pointing out that a mate of mine retired 10 years ago here on a Uk pension of £440 a month which is still frozen today and destroyed by inflation ,, he cannot afford to live and barely exists today . I know you have your fire brigade pension on top so that’s ok Uk pension from April 2024 is over £900 tax free which is over double what my mates is frozen at . Just a point to bear in mind once you leave the Uk that’s all
Hi I have just looked in the file for reviews and nothing in there. Don't know why it has been removed. It is true about the Frozen pension, did you see my work around for this so within 6 months your friend could get the increase to the rate now and keep it. and now it makes sense to do this as also next year will be a 8.6% rise as from April 2024. Two years that's an 18.7% rise that your friend is missing out off. Give this video a look. th-cam.com/video/LfJcTLIMsUA/w-d-xo.html
Yeah he knows about that etc ,, but he a. Hasn’t the money to get a cargo boat back there let alone fly ,, and b. When he gets there he has nowhere to stay as through his alcoholism he has isolated himself from his friends and family 🤷♀️
I'm definitely staying single and have a live-in maid and scenery i can change ? Rent, especially if the maid gets clingy🤣 . I was married for 15 years to a Thai lady, and it was good, but now a free bird. Please enjoy and have a good journey. Thanks for the info 👍
I totally agree with the final comments Les. The wife and I are having a break from Korat and staying in Hua Hin right now paying 14,900 for a month for a nice room 2 mins from the beach, so many options here.
Well done Hua Hin is a great location. Enjoy.
I live in Hua Hin and it’s great but prices have been rising drastically in the last year as Phuket people relocate to Hua Hin. Phuket people are willing to pay 50% more than Hua Hin residents because they are accustomed to higher prices in Phuket.
Thanks for all the useful price info, Les. I’m looking to check out some places along the Gulf of Thailand early next year. Really had enough of the U.K. but unfortunately my stock investments all went south so will have to wait for an upturn until I can realise my dream. Just need to build up some funds to supplement the state pension and then I’m outta here
Keep on working the Plan and it will happen one day. Best wishes for your future plans.
Nice beach spot you have there. lucky man. And Koh samet there...too. Enjoy thanks for share video with us.
For sure it is a nice spot thanks for the comment.
Thanks for the video, Les.
Greetings from Isan. We live on about the same though we own our house. Regarding the allowance for your wife, I gave mine the same amount (15k baht) when I retired here nine years ago. Now I give her the lot each month. The idea being to train her to use money correctly. She writes everything down and we put everything on a simple spreadsheet.. It has taught her how to do a budget.
Regarding your costs, I did not see any allowances for holidays & travel, replacing or updating household items like broken furniture, whitegoods, new toys like phones, computers, drones etc. Yes, a lot of them are one-offs but they are still over & above your normal living costs.
Keep up the good work helping others who are thinking of living in Thailand.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment, These costs were based on what we live on. We make it fit Our Normally the landlady or Landlord would replace broken items if needed. Our Landlady did this with no problem I hear others are not always so lucky. So we can make savings as can anyone a washing machine broke ant 6,000 Baht for a new one we fitted that into the monthly expense and we managed. Holidays well I do dip into my savings for big holidays but the money is returned slowly. In short we manage with what we have. Our Winter 9 day holiday hotel costs are 9,000 Baht we know its happening so we make plans.
Thanks for sharing and you don’t need to explain yourself on your personal choices I and everyone here should respect your right and just be thankful you are sharing great information with us. Thank you my friend we appreciate it.
I appreciate that thanks for the comment and taking time to watch.
Another excellent video Les! Many thanks!
Thanks again! for watching.
Hi Les,My wife and I are counting the days to the 29th of April.One way flights booked,condo booked for a month till we get the retirement visa ball rolling.Its winter here in Durham now and I keep saying to my wife I won't be shivering for much longer lol.
Thanks for your comment April is just around the corner so will be here soon, Make this Christmas special as the next one will be on the Beach. I am enjoying Christmas on the beach this year. I will have a beer for you. Best wishes for your future I hope all goes well for you both.
Fantastic Les! Thanks for the update and sharing your personal cost of living expenses.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream
You are welcome Les. Thanks for all the videos you do. Your sincerity, simplicity, and willingness to help has been instrumental in influencing the decisions being made when it comes to retirement, post divorce, life in Thailand, and tips with getting the transition right the first time. You are appreciated.
great info Les❤❤❤
Thanks for watching.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream Les how do I find out about the price of medications in Thailand.... Metformin, omeprazole a few others too & eyedrops monopost 50ml please xx vee
Thanks Les, am here at the moment asking questions and gathering information. Met 2 blokes within the first few days who have given me answers on most things and plenty of reassurance. The big one will be my state of health when the time comes 🙏👍
Get as much information as you can and use the good bits and you will have a great lifestyle. Best wishes.
@@RetiredandLivingthedreamThanks Les. I intend to come a good few times before retirement for at least a month. I'm thinking I should know whether or not it's for me by then. Many thanks for what you're doing 🙏👍
Thanks for your video SoundCloud a few of these topics and yours is quite sensible and informative.
Thanks for watching and taking time to comment.
These numbers are all on point. Thanks. One question, when you renew your retirement visa, do you still have to show 800000 BHT in the bank or just bank records that show monthly deposits of more than 65,000 BHT per month over the course of the year ?
Hi I have a marriage visa so only need to show either 400,000 in the bank or 40,000 a month income method, I use the income method. Thanks for watching.
Hi Les... another excellent video and particularly interested to hear what you budget for food as we'll be in a similar situation when we relocate to Thailand from NZ in 2026, combining home cooking, street food and the occasional visit to western-style restaurants. We did spend a couple of days in Rayong when we were over in June and considered renting but have decided to build on the wife's land up north east. It costs more initially but does mean we have more money to spend on travel and other things as well as putting more back into the local community and not into some landlord's pocket! Keep up the great work and we might catch up for a beer one day in the future as we'll definitely be back around Rayong for a visit sometime.
Thanks for the visit, Best wishes for your future plans living in Thailand. Good luck with the build.
I think you're going to be surprised at how cheap it is to build on existing land in Isaan. We built 2 houses on my wife's land. First one the construction costs were $10,000 USD. 2 story, 2 bedroom. Thai style house meaning no A/C or hot water. I wasn't happy with it so we built another Western style house. Single story, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, A/C and hot water in the shower. $30,000 USD grand total.
Another suggestion. While planning my move to Thailand I spent a few months tracking every single dime I spent on food. That way I could get an accurate gauge of what me and my Thai wife were spending in the US. It surprised me that we spent nearly $400/week on food. It's a bit over half of that in Thailand but that's because we shop at Tops and Big C to get some of my American food.
เดือนละ1,000US dollar.
@@suhribzevolution645 Yes, for food every month
Thanks Les that was really informative. We’ve just built our home in Prachin & hope to fully move in under 5 years.
Best of luck! with your future plans in Thailand I hope all goes well for you. Thanks for your comment and taking time to watch.
You wright...I know the place....nice, not expensive...and everything close...perfect Les
Thanks for the comment and for watching.
Hi Les . Another cracking video
Thanks so much for watching.
Hi Les, many thanks for sharing the updated cost of living video. 60,000 baht is quite high, but it does include your wife’s allowance, which is also generous (not that I am criticizing you for that). The other costs seem about as low as possible. My dream was to retire to Thailand, but I eventually decided against it because of health considerations. I am 71 and suffer from a heart condition and diabetes, so insurance would be both exorbitant and pretty useless because of the exclusions if I came to live here. I could take a chance and hope to get back to the US if/when I have a problem, but that would mean continuing to pay my Medicare part B and private supplementary insurance at a cost of $430 per month. I could rent out my small house, but after paying the private community assessments ($275) and property taxes, I would not make much. On the positive side, once I get so old I need someone to look after me, that would be much cheaper in Thailand. So maybe I will change my mind. In the meantime I intend to spend a few months every year in Thailand. Cheers, Colin
Heart and Diabetes? Forget Thailand
You work all you life in America. And then you gotta pay for medi part b.. America doesn't care about the elders
I have done a video on assisted living here in Thailand and am working on another video and it gives you some idea on the cost to live here on assisted living. I understand having health problems it comes to us all one day. No one wants the old people.th-cam.com/video/LNrEBggWKgk/w-d-xo.html
Excellent, thanks, makes the dream within reach!
Thanks for that, this is what I want to show people you do not need a lot to live a great lifestyle here.
£1400 a month is a bargain considering for rent alone without bills in York for a 3 bed semi is the same price. I’m guessing it would be double at least for the same lifestyle in the UK. Granted gone are the days when Thailand was super cheap but still a good deal
I would agree 100% I have been to York many times a great location and well outside my affordability. Thanks for watching.
Just one thing Les what is the yearly cost to maintain a VISA please?
1,900 baht for the visa plus whatever your bank charges to provide the statement for immigration - usually 100 to 200 baht.
As another guy stated 1,900 baht per year for the visa.
Great video Les, I live in Florida (originally from Leeds)with my American girlfriend and we are toying with the idea of moving over to Thailand because of the great standard of living, I’m 67 in April so a little concerned about my health living there, but the insurance seems pretty good from what you said, thanks again for sharing 😊
Thanks for watching I hope you find value in my videos.🙏😂
Absolutely 👍
Stunningly interesting vid, thanks mate 🙏
Glad you enjoyed it thanks so much for taking time to comment.😎🙏
Thx, you got yourself a new subscriber 🙏🏻👍🏻🇨🇭☀️
Thanks so much and welcome I hope you get value from the videos. Thanks for the Sub. 😎🙏
Thank you Les for the breakdown of costs. I am planning on moving to Thailand in 2025 to retire. Next two years or less planning on saving and max out 401k.
Thanks so much for watching Best wishes for your future plans for living in Thailand. 2 years will soon pass.
Cheers Les another informative video
Hope people find value in it. Thanks for taking time to comment.
And I thank you for your sound information. Les
Thanks for watching very much appreciated.
Informative update Les.
Thanks for watching I hope it is helpful to those who are thinking about it.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream
Very helpful Les. I’m moving over with my Thai wife of 17 years in 2026 hopefully. Probably got enough savings/pension etc to do it now or next year or in 2025, but we’d rather save that bit more to make sure we’ve enough in the pot. These cost of living videos are very useful. We’re going to be living up in Buriram and we already have a plot of land with savings to build a house, so our monthly costs should be relatively low.
That's a beautiful place I didn't get the name correctly where exactly is that about I want to check house prices in the area lol.
I live in Rayong not on the Tourist map but it is a nice location.
Nice home
Thank you 😊we are very happy here.
I only have 1 year left to work. and plans are to move to Thailand, summer 2025. But due to social security and pension, we have to wait until summer 2026 for a permanent move.
At least your making a plan and time goes fast so in no-time at all you will be sitting in the Land of smiles. Best wishes.
Really appreciate this content! Can I ask you what health insurance company you have? You say you pay about 2000thb a month. Everywhere I search I would have to pay about 9000thb a month, and I’m 37 years old. We’re planning to move in a few years. Have a great day!
I use Pacific Cross the link is in the Description also. The Rep can tell you exactly what your covered for.
Great video. One question, How do you get around the 2 factor authentication for transferring funds from
your home country to Thailand? Thank you.
I have no problem I use wise. Bank to Wise then to my Thai bank no longer than one day. Thanks for watching.
I transfer money regular from Chase to my Thai bank. Don't need 2 factor. If your bank requires it, set up email as the 2nd factor instead of your phone. Or you can set up a schedule transfer each month that never expires.
Thank you you for your kind advice really appreciated.
Very good video
Thanks for the visit very much appreciated.
well done les, I'm from liverpool live in California its broken there's only one way out its no good great video keep them coming one bedroom in California 3000 dollars crazy next generation has no chance here in usa, thx les god bless,
Thanks for watching, The Debt ceiling can't rise forever the bubble will burst one day. The World has gone crazy, living here we are in a bubble for sure but it is nice being able to afford a good lifestyle with a little money compared to the west.
high les my book comes out in December google my name, you will enjoy I will keep intouch, thank you, hope to get there one day, thx Terry,
It's a good video. It is a little on the cheap side. For instance I pay 2,274THB a month for cable but I share it with my sister-in-law next door and she has 2 kids in school who need a good internet for their homework. I also pay for cable TV which costs about the same. I buy top level medical insurance which costs about $290USD a month, but that allows me to use international hospitals like Bumrungrad and BNH. In-patient and out-patient.
This is not to criticize your video. Nice house and with the lifestyle you describe you can live just fine on the budget you describe.
Hi thanks for your comment and taking time to watch, everyone lives on a Budget at all levels, I live within my means and am happy with the income and what it provides. Thanks for watching.😎
Well done, Les! I hear Thais avoid basements due to the shallow water table. Seems a basement could provide geo-coolong? Have you ever researched this? Thanks.
I understand the principle but I can only work with what I have, we manage and work towards a cheaper way of living. Renewable is the way buy this will take time. Thanks for watching.
No it will not cool it will be hot and humid in the basement. Some big buildings have underground parking and it is hot in there.
Speaking of which: I saw an earthern house in Thailand with very thick walls made of clay and double roof. It was always cool inside.
@@VittoShulman I see. It may be the case that the entrance/exit doors allow too much air exchange. The clay structure sounds interesting.
Hi Les
I’m hoping to move over next year. I’ve visited many times. I hoping to live in Jomtien , I’ve got £120 k to last me 10 years til my pension starts. Just doable I think, what do you think?
Thanks.
Mike
Les currently lives on roughly 700,000 baht per year, if we add on 2% inflation every year, by year 10, his cost of living will be 850,000 baht per year or roughly 71,000 baht per month.
Hi Mike 1,000 a year is doable for sure it depends on what you want, If i moved to the Wife's farm I would have no rent to pay and the house its a nice house. Living in the village would be so cheap so I could live on 30 ,000 a month easy. Living in a city you still can live on this amount for sure, I know a guy in the bar every night a lady friend helps him out once a week ( wink wink ) and all on the State pension of 800 a month.
Good video les well done from Scott new Zealand
As always Scott thanks for your support and for watching.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream like to visit you next year if possible from Scott new Zealand
Hi Les, it’s quite interesting for me to know that I can live in Thailand within 50,000 baht a month (minus wife allowance). I don’t drink, I don’t smoke , and I don’t have any plans to get married or have babies, and I don’t spend on hookers. So, technically, my expenses, would be so low? I’m finding it a bit incredible. Can you also please share any resources that I can have a look buy/lease(long term) a house without being dependent on a Thai national? Another question , sorry for being so curious, how easy or difficult it is for a foreigner to live in a place like yours without knowing any Thai.
Do you have trouble with mosquito bites when you don't use the Aircon.
I am lucky mosquito's do not bother me much I must not be their taste. Sometimes when on Holiday my wife gets bitten more than me, whilst they are biting her they are leaving me alone. Thanks for your comment.
It sounds lovely, my only concern is my wife gets upset at bad treatment of animals. Is there much of that there, poisoning dogs etc ?
Thailand is a Buddhist country so they value life but there are plenty of Soi dogs with broken legs skin infections etc etc as the Thai people do not think the same about dogs as we do in the West. This is sad to see but it is what it is. Thanks for your comment.
I had one question off topic regarding the spouse visa. Would you recommend going through an agency or doing it yourself ? Thanks Les from a damp & Cold Ireland. Can’t wait for January for the flight back to Thailand
I live in Bkk, also from Ireland. I get an agent to do my visas.
I simply post my passport to my agent, they will ask for certain bits of paper and photos, all of which can be sent via my phone, pay the fee then a week or so later my passport is sent back. No stress or drama.
Thai Visa Centre can be found on FB, they are in Bkk and doing a special right now on visas. Top class company if you are considering an agent.
I get an agent to do my visa. Costs 35,000THB a year so just under $1,000
It is not difficult to do yourself but agents take the stress away.
Thank you less for all the great videos. You have to interview your wife one day
Ploy does not want to be on camera so this will never happen lol.
@RetiredandLivingthedream no problem I figured that ..enjoy
You said you spend 500 baht per month on car maintenance; do you have insurance on the car other than the standard government insurance?
I am paying 15,000 baht per year for insurance on a Toyota Hilux Pickup Truck.
Hi yes I added that in the video car value 310,000 first class insurance 6,610 baht this year
8:55 OMG!!! An ex-pat who actually pronounces Pattaya properly. Kudos!
It is pronounced in many ways but everyone knows where your talking about. Thanks for watching.
Is there a good website for finding property rentals and sales there?
Plenty of Rental agents in Thailand google is your friend. Best of luck.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream Can you recommend one you trust?
Interestingly I give my wife an allowance of 14k/month for the same reasons as yourself.Its so she doesn't have to ask me for money every time she needs something. At 1st I gave it to her monthly but that soon changed to her asking for advances half way through.
I now have it transferred to her account every Sunday am. lol
I'm slowly trying to get her used to budgeting herself for when I'm gone and she receives her Survivor benefit pension.
Its only going to be about 10k once a month for life so she'll forced to learn.Our house and vehicles are all paid for so hopefully she'll be okay.
She has other assets so I think I worry too much.
Thanks for that, my wife is very good with her finances Above normal and I am happy of that, my wife and family are all hard workers and have never asked for a penny from me and never will. I provide for my wife and when I am gone she is also provided for. I know a couple of Thai lady's their partner died leaving them with nothing but a bill to cremate them, no insurance no pension. Thanks for watching.
Perfect 👍
Thanks 👍😎🙏
Hi Les great video as usual but you didn't factor in annual visa charges
Hi sorry about that 1,900 Baht per year visa charge 158 baht per month. Thanks for watching.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream Thanks Les I know its only small potatoes for you. I was just thinking about the guys who use an agent.
Hi les I was in Thailand for three weeks until last Wednesday third time in years , this being without my late wife staying in Pathum Thani Doing the usual tourist stuff lots and lots of buses mini cabs and trains and owe my god a motorcycle taxi never again , would like to live in Thailand permanently but have a few health issues
I hope you find a solution to your health problems and can make the move to Thailand. Best wishes.
Les.
Me too , I'll never go back to the UK, I love living here also😊
Do you find it cheaper living in Thailand
I will go back for visits but that's it thanks for watching.
@@RetiredandLivingthedream I've not been back for 24 years 🤣
@scottgeen3062 Thailand can be cheaper to live in, but its no cheaper for me because I live a high standard of living the same as I did in the UK.
Hi Les, thanks dor sharing. Does your wife have health insurance or does she goes to government hospitals if needed? I am missing the costs of mobile providers like True or IAS. How much does spend on two phones?
My wife uses the Public hospitals she has basic insurance with the public hospitals only. If in Korat the price starts from 30 Baht. We had to visit the Public hospital here in Rayong as she did not feel well for a number of days, Everything done within the hour and Seen the Doctor and medication 550 Baht.
lookin at retireing in thai in a few years at 60yo with my thai wife,not shore on location but want to be out of the tourist area .we have a house in phuket but im over the crowds . 1000bt a moth seams small for fuel . as it would cost 2000bt to fill tank . any how the health insurance i would love to hear about that what company is that and what does it cover. also social activities what do you do eg, ride bike /play golf. do you have a comunity social group. how good is your thai lamguage .also what visa system do u use. i woul love to learm more to make my jurny easier
Hi and thanks for watching, We have a Nissan Alimera to fill it from empty is only1,300 Baht, we stay local shop local so that's about our cost. Small trips to 7/11 we use the scooter. Health Insurance I pay 25,000 baht for 700,000 baht worth of cover. I did an interviewed with a rep from Pacific Cross here is the link to the video and contact details so you can ask what you want. th-cam.com/video/-eg9xY_-2_A/w-d-xo.html
We do have social groups we socialize around friends houses etc we have a brunch club every week of between 6 and 12 guys. I don't play golf we don't do bars on a regular basis. but we do holiday quite a bit at least 3 to 4 every year. Also visiting my wife's farm and family in Korat takes up time.
Visa I am on the Marriage visa lots of paperwork but not impossible. My Thai is very poor it is one thing I cant do here.
best wishes for your future in Thailand.
Your health insurance costs seem ridiculously low in comparison to what other TH-camrs are stating.
Who are you getting your health insurance from and what does it cover
Heart and Diabetes expect UK £400 per month minimum healthcare costs - what he quoted is a JOKE!!! He was a Fireman before? Keep dousing out the flames and don't mess around with healthcare costs
My premium is what it is under 25,000 Baht for 700,000 baht of cover. Hi my costs are low because when I took out the policy 10 years ago I have never made a claim If you have medical conditions then yeas you pay. I had an interview with Pacific Cross and Loic answered questions on health insurance have a watch th-cam.com/video/-eg9xY_-2_A/w-d-xo.html
There is no way round medical insurance but there are ways to self insure. Getting old comes at a cost.
I live in Thailand aged 64 with no pre existing conditions and pay 40000 baht a year with Pacific cross to cover me for 3 million baht premium plus plan. I would not feel comfortable going for less!
Hi Les, I am thinking of retiring 2025. I have a girlfriend in Bua Yai and probably stay around that area. I will have a small lump sum and then about 50000 baht a month until my state pension kicks in. I am just worried about the health insurance costs. I am 63 and pretty healthy. Good video and info.
Is Kelly Portola OK?
Hi I sent Kelly a message a few weeks ago now and she said she was ok, noting herd since.
which city do you live in?
We live in Rayong Province.
Does your Fireman pension go up with inflation in the UK every year?
Yes it goes up every year so next year I think it is 6.7%
Good on you Les you look very happy that's about what we live on in Melbourne and the Thai wife like the weather here better me I hate the rules regulations government control even old age pension if your Lucky enough to make 67 in good health is only about 1800AUD a month but if you go live in Thailand they cut it down a couple of hundred you just can't win so good on you having complete freedom after 30yrs in the fire brigade I tell our son stay in the Australian Navy 20 years get a pension for life he will only be 40 laughing especially if he wants to go back to Thailand which he doesn't same as his mum hates the heat and humidity Thai people who come to Australia love the climate
I am in paradise but sick as a dog all alone for over a week l look forward to better times 😮
Hope your better soon, Best wishes.
👍
I'm interested in a short...6 months rental property there ..2 bedroom house ....can you give me agent details. Cheers
Send me a email with your budget and when your looking to start your stay and for your information living in this area you need transport. Cheers Les.
lesliepearson58@yahoo.com
Everyone says they never want to go back to England BUT as soon as they get sick ✈️🏃🏼
There is a huge difference between wanting to and having to 😂
@@dennismarsden9177Dennis you’re spot on, it’s all about planning and what funds you have
@@dennismarsden9177 Most have to return then 😂
No return to the NHS if you are not classed as UK resident.
Even when you eventually are classed as resident, join the ever expanding waiting list (8 million, if correct)
Cheaper and better to stay in Thailand.
You take your chances 😊
You can't get an appointment even when you live here. The NHS is useless these days.
Cost of living starts around the 6:00 minute mark.
It does your correct but also seeing what your getting for your money is important also, but I hope you got what you needed. Thanks for watching.
1st
Where can I meet an ordinary Thai girlfriend ? please let me know
All Thai girls are Ordinary but some work in places they would not normally chose to work. Not all Bar Girls are bad, they are also looking to get a better life. Bar girls get a poor reputation but there is good and bad about every profession. Go with your gut instinct a nice person is and will always be a nice person. Seek and you will find.
Ah man I'm 33 with 2 young kids would love to move to Thailand. Teesside is grey and miserable 😂
Decent schools here are very expensive 😢
@@bigal2417 such a shame I guess I'll have to wait until the kids are older
@originallifeclothing4038 Yes, mate, I've seen retired men have to return to the UK cos they started a family here with a thai bird.
@@bigal2417 oh really and they have returned to the UK to earn money for schooling?
i doubt very much that you would be able to work in Thailand, very difficult for farangs to get a work permit and at 33 yrs of age you have over 30 years to go before the pension. Unless of course you have enough money
You give the wife 15000bt a month! Haha
My wife gets 40,000bt a month! She gets 6000bt every Friday and 500bt every day for the morning market! We live in Chiang Rai area!
Oh wow! Lucky girl thanks for the comment.
Bloody jealous my rent alone is more than your full outgoings 😢
It is within your hands to change best wishes for your future plans. Thanks for taking time to comment.😀
I reckon the more the Europeans move their , the more the prices are going to rise.
At the moment it is the Russian people who are the highest numbers. Europe still has a lot to offer.
See my comments been deleted for stating a few true facts
TH-cam must of deleted as I have just come back from Holiday today, I only delete if offensive.
Ok mate no worries ,, no in no way was that offensive , I was merely pointing out that a mate of mine retired 10 years ago here on a Uk pension of £440 a month which is still frozen today and destroyed by inflation ,, he cannot afford to live and barely exists today .
I know you have your fire brigade pension on top so that’s ok
Uk pension from April 2024 is over £900 tax free which is over double what my mates is frozen at .
Just a point to bear in mind once you leave the Uk that’s all
Hi I have just looked in the file for reviews and nothing in there. Don't know why it has been removed. It is true about the Frozen pension, did you see my work around for this so within 6 months your friend could get the increase to the rate now and keep it. and now it makes sense to do this as also next year will be a 8.6% rise as from April 2024. Two years that's an 18.7% rise that your friend is missing out off. Give this video a look. th-cam.com/video/LfJcTLIMsUA/w-d-xo.html
Yeah he knows about that etc ,, but he a. Hasn’t the money to get a cargo boat back there let alone fly ,, and b. When he gets there he has nowhere to stay as through his alcoholism he has isolated himself from his friends and family 🤷♀️
I'm definitely staying single and have a live-in maid and scenery i can change ? Rent, especially if the maid gets clingy🤣 . I was married for 15 years to a Thai lady, and it was good, but now a free bird. Please enjoy and have a good journey. Thanks for the info 👍
Go for it! What every your happy with in your life. Best wishes. Thanks for the comment.
Bad move Barnsley yes
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