Great Advice - stay minimum 3mo wherever you are planning on moving permanently. Even just 4-6 weeks can be a honeymoon period where your eyes are glossed over of what daily life would be like.
You need at least twelve months to get past the honeymoon period then comes the rose coloured glasses syndrome where everything is fairy dairy land cute little bunny rabbits and a few months later comes the big kahuna of reality of life in Thailand bites in and most farangs after a few years up to five years providing they're still alive usually hit the great big brick wall of actuality and reality .
Thank you Trevor as always. Yes. Totally agree with your words. I think Pattaya is very intense in the centre and like you say, very intense if you come to live that way. It’s so important to find balance. Survival and more importantly establishing yourself in Pattaya revolves around finding a good routine and a quiet area to allow life to be established.
Correct. I left Pattaya after 8 months for bang saray to find balance. I had money to fund my mongering habit but not my energy and libido. I've certainly experienced the too much of a good thing issue
Good to get an update. You made a very valid point Trev, one that many fail to mention - you have to include an item in your budget for visits from friends/family. Reverting to tourist mode for 2-3 weeks is expensive
I can cook reasonably well, but 120 THB for a thai meal twice-a-day, plus a daily coffee, is far too tempting. I will be asking for less or no sugar in my thai food, though.
Trev, what you often dont mention in these "how much" videos, is that many expats (most that i hangout with) BUY a condo, car, bike etc. We dont have most of these expenses you talk about. Also, a lot of guys marry normal thai girls, so not renting a partner. I bought a 1M baht condo and a car 11 years ago, its paid for itself 2-3 times over. I literally live on 30-40k a month, drink, company, eat well.
This is the most comprehensive cost of living video of all the you tubers that i have seen... a lot of mid to higher end condos have gyms... but you are paying more rent ... my experience of golf was higher at 3000 but i went on my own so the tip to join a society is a good one... i get tge impression that property costs are increasing to buy looking at the new developments ... it would be interesting to get a view on availability for fgn ownership and renting if thats possible ... great channel and mix of content
trev , i come to pattaya 3 times a year , im back again in november , i just have to say that 2000bht is the most i have ever paid for company , if im quoted more i walk away , usually i will pay 1000bht to 1500bht , when you said budget 3000bht to 7000bht i dropped my cup of tea , oviously i have the bar fine on top but thats only 500bht to 800bht....my only advice is...dont barfine in the gogos...................
Really good diverse subscription. It was possibly here. I’m currently an Expat living here in Pattaya In my budget I do have limited visitations with going out But everything else I can live within my budget Thank you for description and I hope your listeners will pay attention to you Thank you so much
Some great advice. For someone like me who has never been then this would be the go to guide for me. Thank you for sharing. I left a like as usual. I hope you have a great day mate 👍
I won't bore you with a full breakdown, but my monthly expenditure is 130k/mth for all outgoings, which includes 22k for an 82sqm condo (pool and gym) in a secret location only 15mins walk from Pothole. I'm not a bell-ringer nor a balloon chaser, somewhere in between. But I am a steak-eating butterfly with a heart of stone😆
It is hard to beat $3-4 usd for a bolt ride a couple times a week. Can't beat the baht bus for ~ 35c usd a pop. No buying a car. No paying for gas, insurance or maintenance. Let someone else do the driving. Tip them modestly when you can. From Jomtien, my monthly TOTAL travel costs are less than $40/month EVERY month. That includes probably 7-8 bolt car rides & 7-10 baht bus rides per month - mostly into Pattaya to the malls, beach & party Sois - so it's not just short rides. My insurance ALONE in the States was $100+ as was gas. Money in your pocket, guys! But - THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TREV SAID - *have something to do that you will not be bored with!* If you don't, then you will day drink and piss money away day and night. Whether it is read, exercise - hell, play solitaire - whatever it takes to pass the time. Then your money is still in your pocket when you want to hit Soi 6, buy some new clothes or accessories or treat yourself to the occasional gratuitous meal. And when it comes to 'company,' try as I might, I have yet to even approach a 3,000 baht tab, all tips & drinks included. Good for an hour straight up and about another hour after. Money well spent. Stay COMPLETELY away from go-go bars!
Always worth remembering when you are considering inflation when thinking about budget, if you are in your 50s, it's quite possthat you will another 30years, 100,000baht will be enough today, but will it still be enough in 10yrs, 20yrs, and 30yrs? Does your pension include annual cost of living rises? Where will you find extra income in the future? Always have an eye on the future, and a plan b.
Since I have been coming to Thailand it has dropped dramatically however the last 5 years it has seemed to stabilize and keeping it the same rate it is now I can't imagine much changes in the future
No worries, thank you. It would be wonderful to see it Go back up to 50 or 60 im hoping to rent out my property and teach English online next year so I can make the move 👍🇹🇭
How mutch gig on your phone contract if you got 500gig plus you could just hotspot for tv gaming etc on 5G it will be faultless for streaming and games
Hey Trev,, Always a pleasure,, with Bolt, you can chat with the driver in most any language and it is automatically translated. For example, as soon as they have accepted a fare, I txt them and say I am at the Big C Extra maiin entrance wearing a yellow hat. That really helps them find you. Often they are given maps that are a little off. Also, with the Bolt app sometimes the app tries to make you select taxi because it is the only option presented and you don't get the drop down list of options. Back out of it and resubmit and then the drop down list comes up with all the choices. Can you recommend a good bicycle shop? thanks again Trev
excellent advice... going for a balls out holiday for a few weeks/month is TOTALLY different than Living somewhere 12months a yr!!! Try 3months first, work out your month holiday budget, you not so partying month and find somewhere in between will be your approx monthly cost allowing to still go out and party a couple days a week if you wish... £2k/$3k would be a good amount per month income as a minimum...
Thank you for the excellent video. I appreciate your time. I want to import an exotic sports car but I understand that there is like a 300 percent import tax. Even for me, it is not worth it.
Great informative vid Trev .. The costs do seem to add up especially the medical insurance ..The price of errmm.... Ummm ...oooohh ..gir... errrmm company :) doesnt seem competitive any more by the sounds of it .... Back in the day guys used to go to Pattaya because of the favourable prices ...sounds like the good old days are over ?
Good steer mate. Nice how you bracketed the monthly spend to levels of living expectations.……..Still amazes me that some guys living there do not buy Health insurance. Quickest way for the dream to be over if you live on a set amount of income.
Wife's neice's husband from Boston was living up in Nong Bong Lamphu, very cheap, but he said it is probably best for most expats to stick around places like Pattaya or Bangkok due to the convenience. Spent a month up in Yosothon and wife's expenses there was very low by US standards. House (small 2 bedroom) payment was $120 US/month and I paid $50 US for groceries for 2 weeks. Power there was about $12 US a month. So up north it is much cheaper, but definitely does not cater to westerners. Thai style homes are a bit different from what I am used to, but depending on your tastes, it might be doable. Transport was for me the biggest issue as I am very uncomfortable on the back of the wife's moped! I think one could do it on $3000 US a month very comfortably!
@@Mikeallen0283 Agreed. Outside of Pattaya a lot of Thailand reminds me of places like Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky or alabama. Pretty landscapes, good down to earth country folk and slower pace than the big city. But exotic at the same time.
I would say $1200 to $1500 US dollar per month is comfortable unless you want to drink. Probably about $2000 a month for a couple, again, unless you are drinkers. This includes rent, utilities, transport, insurance miscellaneous etc...Add at least 10% to this right now because of the strong baht and weakened dollar. Bangkok add about another 10 to 15% to this
I lived here in Pattaya for over a year now. My spending is between 100000 to 120000 bahts per month. I have seen lots of utubers giving false info. To this end I found you one of the best utubers and I followed many of your suggestions, but please take in consideration that not all retirees are here to scrap for money. Some of us want to enjoy the rest of our lives. Thanks
I said 110k on another channel and they said “that’s an unrealistic budget for those looking to escape with financial hardship.” That’s my budget to enjoy life.
I agree. Not less than 110000 per month. Sometimes much more. If I want to sit and watch netflix I would do this any other place in the world. I am in Thailand and I want to enjoy it.
I think for basic living you could live on about 30k a month but you'd have no life. When I was living in bang saray, I was spending around 100-110k a month which incorporated a long time and 3 or 4 short times. If you added bar tabs too the girl action my guess I was spending 50% of my income on living and 50% on night activities. Believe it or not now having moved to Hua Hin sponsoring only the 1 girl, I'm now spending around 80-90k a month. I'm saving money but far out it's tough only releasing the dragon on 1 treasure. Been faithful over 3 months now and it's getting tough. Maybe try find a freelancer for some sneaky side action a week. Going to be hard to manage though
We are living at the east side dark side(kah Noi) our monthly budget is 80k plus holiday budget of 20k... We have a house in a nice community with a pool…... Quite happy with the situation..😊
Trev, what’s happening with pension.if I am only receiving a UK state pension, which will be around £12,450 yearly in 2026 will this be tax free to receive in Thailand- can you find out for myself and other subscribers 🙏 By the way never received my newsletter !
Sorry mate, 150,000 baht are you certain about that - that seems very low. Your state pension in the UK is tax free up to 12,400 a year I believe, so how can you be taxed on this
The worst thing is that your pension would be frozen forever at £12,450 per year as the UK gov doesn't increase it in line with inflation. If you move abroad
Have your pension paid into a UK account and with draw money on a monthly basis using a fee free credit/debit card, if you live in Thailand permanently your pension will never receive a pension uplift with inflation and will be frozen at whatever rate you get when it starts to pay out. Use an accomdation address in the UK like a trusted relative to keep your pension inflation proofed.
Hi Trevor really good advice and lots a things to think before doing the move permanently like for me i'm checking for my 2 cars if we allowed to bring because like you know our steering wheel is on the left side but anyway i have many things to think i've got 2 houses but this isn't a problem one i rent and is the same guys for 20years is renting is a friend and the one i stay my daughter she's living on the first floor and me in the bachelor anyway i will see how it goes i will come at least for2months so will see thanks Trevor have a excellent day Trev and take care and stay safe. sawatdeekhrap kopkounmakkrap. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Sir,,commodore,,Trevor,,and I said it again great video mate,,iam taking notes religiously,,hey,,somebody and other people tells me go for Jomtien area to reside,,what do you think,,?? And thanks again mate,,!!!!😊😊😊
Great vlog Trev, if i was living there I dont think I would cook much, I remeber the tin cup restaurant, excellent value and also the likes of Kiss. Deffo need something to do there or the daytime drinking would take a grip 🙂
I retired early at age 48 and will be moving to Thailand next year to try it out for a year. One thing I know is inflation is still ravaging through the entire world. Until I can access my retirement accounts at age 60+ my budget will be around $3k/mo. Seems like it will be enough, but cost of living even in Thailand is no joke and will require discipline for sure. Luckily I have pretty good discipline learned over the years
I admit getting bored after 1 month else I'd have a Bar or something. Keep in mind a video for the new ETA in December as this reduces Passport Control time lots.
Trevor,good to meet you again as always.and you STILL beat me at pool😢,my day WILL come lol.can you give an average monthly cost for electric/water aircon.these are the.only two expenses that I have no idea of.unless I can live with sugar 555!!!!!!🤣
"Family visits". My brother is coming over at the end of the month. He paid for his flights I pay for all hotels. I would never without good reason go back to the UK so my contribution is the hotel costs. That gives as peace to spend as we like worry free day and night touring around with all admin settled. Im doing exactly as you've mentioned, budget for western food and high end Thai food. 140 - 200 per meal. When the novelty wears off and the snacks kick in the savings will build up. The 7/11 mom and pop beers on the balcony, the walk around and beaches likewise add up to the savings all the better for markets, activities and nightlife. A typical scenario is land, dump the bags and straight into the first bar, lady drinks with new heavenly friends, back to the room showered and changed, pub crawl dropping off lady drinks all the way to a nightclub. Morning, seen nothing not even the room, skint, off to ATM and the nearest bar same again. 555😂. All done years ago. I have to put the effort in and let my brother sample the newbie way.
Thanks for the info. I reached out about a week ago and as promised, you have delivered 👍. If I have one criticism (and please understand I'm making a bit of a joke here) it's that us Scots aren't an independent country so it's the BRITISH pound not the English one 😁🏴🏴🏴🏴
dunno where to ride my racing bike. Tried riding around 2nd road beach road and down to na jomtien and back but the roads are atrocious. was bunny hopping everything, getting chased by dogs, and swerving for storm drains constantly.
I have a condo in pattaya and spend 4 months a year there. I wouldnt live there full time. I like England during the summer and thailand during the winter, perfect for me. Dont have to deal with health care, tax, banking and pension issues.
Do you take out your bank's health insurance for the months that you're in Thailand? My NatWest insurance partner was quite cheap in recent year's but they've got a new supplier this year, so who knows??
Support. Needed Trevor. I've heard a few guys mention art therapy in Pratanup. Or Yoga. Get inti that paint brush frame and design. It's wow. It's important to touch base also with fair haired middle aged Palate's types who can help. Art therapy. Consider.
Suggestions. Received. Putting on sum stretchy trousers and weaving a basket could be the best afternoon you've invested in. For guys who need a teacher in... Calms.
Wont try to bore you too much but im living on a UK pension only around 35k..ish, im in an 8k 34sqm decent condo in Jomtien, utilities around 1k, 100 metres from the beach. i have a bar girl girlfriend who takes no money apart from food that i buy her, she mostly sends her money home or shopee. We live comfortably within our budget we go to restraunts every few days, goto Lotus for food once or twice a month.. and i dont eat Thai food, so theres three or four deliveries a month to the expat shops, around 1.2k at a time. Really we do our own thing and dont suffer, i dont drink or smoke or visit bars, which is a big help and where the majority would fail quickly on a uk pension i think. The alternative in the uk. stay in a one bedroomed flat and deal with the cold and misery, on the same amount of money.. no thanks. On saying the above, I would not advise anyone coming here to try and live on that amount really as most peoples comfort levels and wants are much higher.
@@philipcliff-ig1is ok philip, i respect your answer as many have the same opinion, but she lives with me, no problem, going on two years now. Remember I pay the rent and buy her food, she is happy with that.
Would like to see a cost / benefit, pros / cons video about renting vs. buying a scooter / motorbike over long time vs short time. (Sorta like a woman ;
If in the West on a pension 1500 pounds you have got to live on a budget the same applies to Pattaya to the climate is a big issue the heat if your a sensible person with common sense in 2 more years I retired moving out to Pattaya to retire I am a veteran in Pattaya since 1995 back out on holiday in November cannot not wait
You have to budget wherever you live in the world, Pattaya is just far cheaper- £1000 is probably equivalent to £1500 or more in the UK. If you are sensible you should be to live considerably cheaper in Thailand- even with your visa and healthcare, just do your sums
1 month ago company 2000 to 3000 bht for the evening. In the uk similar but not as good would cost 50k bht equivalent or more. 25x more! I can’t help thinking we are being over charged here 😂
1500Baht for as long as you want until you are finished. Bangkok has the greatest transport in the world. So much to choose from. Pint of beer 200 Baht. Food unbelievably cheap. Large coffee and chocolate biscuit 0.18 Baht.
Buy a condo.. 1 point 2 million.. buy a decent used truck 200 grand buy motorcycle 40 grand. Done ! The end of the road , give it all to your care giver. It's a wonderful life. Been here 30 years.. ( cook at home.. super cheap. )
@@ScooterOnHisWay2024 4000 dollars per year for rent . I've lived here 30 years Nice condo near the beach with a big pool. Parking for truck and bikes.
Looking to come on holiday. Would like to arrange to meet you for consultation. And to create a great list for a 2 week stay. Best GC’s best restaurants best excursions etc. happy to pay you for your advice. As I’m probably coming on my own It would be great to have you as a trusted source. Thank you.
@@Ardoyne10 When you have been there a while believe me it is nice to get out and away from the madness in the town centre, especially when you are knocking on a bit 👍🤣🤣👍
just back from Pattaya 4 days ago... average most ladies are asking for 1500 for St and then for LT ( who the hell wants LT only fools and Chinese-Koreans) prices go from 2500 to 4000. why would I spend 4000 for LT when most of the time the girl would be asleep, Am I paying her 4000 for sleeping... the hell with that... 4000 give you 2ST with 2 different girls, no brainer. And just a little tip...if you treat the lady good and you behave she must even give you your fun for free or the typical "up to you"
Assuming you have 35 years NI contributions, you qualify for a full UK state pension at age 66 (soon 67). It will be paid gross of UK tax assuming you are Thai resident (180 day rule) , but subject to Thai tax under their worldwide income rule. Note the pension paid to you in Thailand will never increase. Also note the risk of having income paid in £s, but expenses payable in baht - could you cope if the exchange rate was say 30 -35 in 5 - 10 years?
@@philipbarnard2474 Would two UK bank accounts not allow annual increases, where IR pays into one account, and you transfer it to another UK account before sending it to Thailand.
GYMs have different options, for example, my GYM has an 900 per month membership and a 1200 per month membership. For 900 a month I can use the GYM only at certain hours, and during those hours the AC is off, for 1200 a month, I can use the GYM anytime, and believe you me, working out in a GYM with no AC is not advised.
I live in pratamnak l bought a condo here it's my perferd area to live Pattaya city center by motorcycle about 5 minutes jomtien about 3 minutes by motorcycle
Thailand cost of living - how long is a piece of string?. Rent an 8k per month room and eat cheap food from the food courts. Or rent a pool villa and eat at expensive western restaurants , have a girlfriend or not?. Up to you really , what life do you want and what are your resources?.
Great Advice - stay minimum 3mo wherever you are planning on moving permanently. Even just 4-6 weeks can be a honeymoon period where your eyes are glossed over of what daily life would be like.
Just in America I found out being somewhere less than 1 or 2 months doesn't even give a long term view.
Yeah absolutely mate get to know the area first away from being a tourist
You need at least twelve months to get past the honeymoon period then comes the rose coloured glasses syndrome where everything is fairy dairy land cute little bunny rabbits and a few months later comes the big kahuna of reality of life in Thailand bites in and most farangs after a few years up to five years providing they're still alive usually hit the great big brick wall of actuality and reality .
Thank you Trevor as always. Yes. Totally agree with your words. I think Pattaya is very intense in the centre and like you say, very intense if you come to live that way. It’s so important to find balance. Survival and more importantly establishing yourself in Pattaya revolves around finding a good routine and a quiet area to allow life to be established.
balance is key to survival mate as you said
Correct. I left Pattaya after 8 months for bang saray to find balance. I had money to fund my mongering habit but not my energy and libido.
I've certainly experienced the too much of a good thing issue
Good to get an update. You made a very valid point Trev, one that many fail to mention - you have to include an item in your budget for visits from friends/family. Reverting to tourist mode for 2-3 weeks is expensive
Friends visits are costly
Just recently subscribed....loving the videos you guys have put out. Keep up the great work!
Awesome! Thank you!
Every man should know how to cook, even the basics, it’ll save you tons of money and your health. Great advice and video Trev. 🎉
Cheers mate
I can cook reasonably well, but 120 THB for a thai meal twice-a-day, plus a daily coffee, is far too tempting. I will be asking for less or no sugar in my thai food, though.
Trev, what you often dont mention in these "how much" videos, is that many expats (most that i hangout with) BUY a condo, car, bike etc. We dont have most of these expenses you talk about.
Also, a lot of guys marry normal thai girls, so not renting a partner.
I bought a 1M baht condo and a car 11 years ago, its paid for itself 2-3 times over. I literally live on 30-40k a month, drink, company, eat well.
Are you happy?
@@Egoresgt living the dream
@@peterw7012 I doubt it with the above comment 😂
nice one mate thanks for sharing and sure I get ya point
Thanks Trev., a great easy to follow informative video. Much appreciated mate
Glad you enjoyed it
This is the most comprehensive cost of living video of all the you tubers that i have seen... a lot of mid to higher end condos have gyms... but you are paying more rent ... my experience of golf was higher at 3000 but i went on my own so the tip to join a society is a good one... i get tge impression that property costs are increasing to buy looking at the new developments ... it would be interesting to get a view on availability for fgn ownership and renting if thats possible ... great channel and mix of content
Thank you kindly
trev , i come to pattaya 3 times a year , im back again in november , i just have to say that 2000bht is the most i have ever paid for company , if im quoted more i walk away , usually i will pay 1000bht to 1500bht , when you said budget 3000bht to 7000bht i dropped my cup of tea , oviously i have the bar fine on top but thats only 500bht to 800bht....my only advice is...dont barfine in the gogos...................
Gotcha mate
Thanks Trev, Great info & another great video. can't wait to be back in the Bar.
Cheers mate see you soon
Really good diverse subscription. It was possibly here.
I’m currently an Expat living here in Pattaya
In my budget
I do have limited visitations with going out
But everything else I can live within my budget
Thank you for description and I hope your listeners will pay attention to you
Thank you so much
Cheers mate
Some great advice. For someone like me who has never been then this would be the go to guide for me. Thank you for sharing. I left a like as usual. I hope you have a great day mate 👍
You are so welcome!
Thank You for making another useful very needed video
My pleasure
I won't bore you with a full breakdown, but my monthly expenditure is 130k/mth for all outgoings, which includes 22k for an 82sqm condo (pool and gym) in a secret location only 15mins walk from Pothole.
I'm not a bell-ringer nor a balloon chaser, somewhere in between. But I am a steak-eating butterfly with a heart of stone😆
nice one mate, glad you are sorted
🤣🤣🤣
It is hard to beat $3-4 usd for a bolt ride a couple times a week. Can't beat the baht bus for ~ 35c usd a pop. No buying a car. No paying for gas, insurance or maintenance. Let someone else do the driving. Tip them modestly when you can. From Jomtien, my monthly TOTAL travel costs are less than $40/month EVERY month. That includes probably 7-8 bolt car rides & 7-10 baht bus rides per month - mostly into Pattaya to the malls, beach & party Sois - so it's not just short rides. My insurance ALONE in the States was $100+ as was gas. Money in your pocket, guys!
But - THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TREV SAID - *have something to do that you will not be bored with!* If you don't, then you will day drink and piss money away day and night. Whether it is read, exercise - hell, play solitaire - whatever it takes to pass the time. Then your money is still in your pocket when you want to hit Soi 6, buy some new clothes or accessories or treat yourself to the occasional gratuitous meal.
And when it comes to 'company,' try as I might, I have yet to even approach a 3,000 baht tab, all tips & drinks included. Good for an hour straight up and about another hour after. Money well spent. Stay COMPLETELY away from go-go bars!
what do you recommend instead of the go-go bars?
Totally agree with you mate
Always worth remembering when you are considering inflation when thinking about budget, if you are in your 50s, it's quite possthat you will another 30years, 100,000baht will be enough today, but will it still be enough in 10yrs, 20yrs, and 30yrs? Does your pension include annual cost of living rises? Where will you find extra income in the future? Always have an eye on the future, and a plan b.
Well said mate
plan B might be to go back in much later life to the west
im watching this video, what a throwback to when i watched your first video same topic but back then i havent been there and i knew nothing
Cheers mate
Hi Trevor, do you have any idea what the Baht is going to be like in the future is it likely to get weaker or stronger against the pound ?
Since I have been coming to Thailand it has dropped dramatically however the last 5 years it has seemed to stabilize and keeping it the same rate it is now I can't imagine much changes in the future
No worries, thank you. It would be wonderful to see it Go back up to 50 or 60 im hoping to rent out my property and teach English online next year so I can make the move 👍🇹🇭
Hi Trev ,which area's are flood prone ?,i wouldn't want to buy or rent a house that gets flooded every year ,maybe you can make a blog about it ,lol.
Most badly flooded areas are the train track area and Sukhumvit area
Very informative and helpful. Thank you sir!
thank you kindly
How mutch gig on your phone contract if you got 500gig plus you could just hotspot for tv gaming etc on 5G it will be faultless for streaming and games
Unlimited
Nice video Trev as usual. Very informative
Thanks mate
Excellent breakdown Trev!
Glad you liked it!
Hey Trev,, Always a pleasure,, with Bolt, you can chat with the driver in most any language and it is automatically translated. For example, as soon as they have accepted a fare, I txt them and say I am at the Big C Extra maiin entrance wearing a yellow hat. That really helps them find you. Often they are given maps that are a little off. Also, with the Bolt app sometimes the app tries to make you select taxi because it is the only option presented and you don't get the drop down list of options. Back out of it and resubmit and then the drop down list comes up with all the choices.
Can you recommend a good bicycle shop?
thanks again Trev
Thank you
Trev can you pay cash in a Bolt taxi or do you have to give your card details
I’ve always paid cash in Thailand, think maybe you can pay with credit card, not sure
cash is accepted or if you haveva thai bank some have a tap sytem
I only ever pay cash
excellent advice... going for a balls out holiday for a few weeks/month is TOTALLY different than Living somewhere 12months a yr!!! Try 3months first, work out your month holiday budget, you not so partying month and find somewhere in between will be your approx monthly cost allowing to still go out and party a couple days a week if you wish... £2k/$3k would be a good amount per month income as a minimum...
So true
Thank you for the excellent video. I appreciate your time. I want to import an exotic sports car but I understand that there is like a 300 percent import tax. Even for me, it is not worth it.
Thanks mate and yeah very costly
@@Buzzinpattaya thank you for your excellent content 🙏🏻
Is the Jom Tien bound bht bus also 10bht? Or was it 20?😅
10
@@Buzzinpattaya Well just tickle me silly. . .I've been giving them 20 bht for years (>.
I’m thinking of cycling but appears unsafe in central Pattaya
I used to cycle every M/W/F mornings around 6:30am, was brilliant cycling around Big Buddha mountain, used to notch up 50+ kms per ride
Great informative vid Trev .. The costs do seem to add up especially the medical insurance ..The price of errmm.... Ummm ...oooohh ..gir... errrmm company :) doesnt seem competitive any more by the sounds of it .... Back in the day guys used to go to Pattaya because of the favourable prices ...sounds like the good old days are over ?
Cheers mate
Trev thanks for this, good insight. Will come for a beer in a few weeks. Once question though, is it expensive to import your car into Thailand.
Cheers mate and yes
Good steer mate. Nice how you bracketed the monthly spend to levels of living expectations.……..Still amazes me that some guys living there do not buy Health insurance. Quickest way for the dream to be over if you live on a set amount of income.
Thank you
Thanks, is there a place where you can rent a bicycle? I normally rent a motorbike but I think it's too dangerous sometimes..
Yes mate Cadence Cycles in Jomtien speak to Morgan
The food looks great but how often is the bad cooking oil changed?!?!?! 😕 🤔 😕
No idea but all I can say is I eat regularly Street Food and have never ever been sick or had a problem as a result of eating the food
Wife's neice's husband from Boston was living up in Nong Bong Lamphu, very cheap, but he said it is probably best for most expats to stick around places like Pattaya or Bangkok due to the convenience. Spent a month up in Yosothon and wife's expenses there was very low by US standards. House (small 2 bedroom) payment was $120 US/month and I paid $50 US for groceries for 2 weeks. Power there was about $12 US a month. So up north it is much cheaper, but definitely does not cater to westerners. Thai style homes are a bit different from what I am used to, but depending on your tastes, it might be doable. Transport was for me the biggest issue as I am very uncomfortable on the back of the wife's moped! I think one could do it on $3000 US a month very comfortably!
wow thanks for sharing
@@Buzzinpattaya Thanks for your very informative and interesting content!
Nong Bua lam Phu is amazing
Love visiting friends there I highly recommend it
@@Mikeallen0283 Agreed. Outside of Pattaya a lot of Thailand reminds me of places like Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky or alabama. Pretty landscapes, good down to earth country folk and slower pace than the big city. But exotic at the same time.
I would say $1200 to $1500 US dollar per month is comfortable unless you want to drink. Probably about $2000 a month for a couple, again, unless you are drinkers. This includes rent, utilities, transport, insurance miscellaneous etc...Add at least 10% to this right now because of the strong baht and weakened dollar. Bangkok add about another 10 to 15% to this
Cheers mate
Agree. Good for 80%
I’m coming back!!!!!! Taking early retirement at 45. Will be coming to Thailand this November. I think I will have to spend a few days in Pattaya.
I am 45 and hoping to retire early 25 years from now...
Nice one but long stay you will need to sort a visa
Really good video Trevor I've been here for 2 years now those figures are spot on
Cheers mate thank you
What kind of life would I love there with 6,000 USD a month?
a nice one
King
Top of the pack
Rich man
Goes without saying
I lived here in Pattaya for over a year now. My spending is between 100000 to 120000 bahts per month. I have seen lots of utubers giving false info. To this end I found you one of the best utubers and I followed many of your suggestions, but please take in consideration that not all retirees are here to scrap for money. Some of us want to enjoy the rest of our lives. Thanks
Totally mate thank you
120000 baht? That's almost my cost of living in the US. But I have quite a minimal lifestyle, don't eat out much, inexpensive hobbies.
That fits with my estimate. Thanks!
I said 110k on another channel and they said “that’s an unrealistic budget for those looking to escape with financial hardship.” That’s my budget to enjoy life.
I agree. Not less than 110000 per month. Sometimes much more. If I want to sit and watch netflix I would do this any other place in the world. I am in Thailand and I want to enjoy it.
Thank U for your information, it helps❤
You are so welcome!
I think for basic living you could live on about 30k a month but you'd have no life. When I was living in bang saray, I was spending around 100-110k a month which incorporated a long time and 3 or 4 short times. If you added bar tabs too the girl action my guess I was spending 50% of my income on living and 50% on night activities.
Believe it or not now having moved to Hua Hin sponsoring only the 1 girl, I'm now spending around 80-90k a month. I'm saving money but far out it's tough only releasing the dragon on 1 treasure. Been faithful over 3 months now and it's getting tough. Maybe try find a freelancer for some sneaky side action a week. Going to be hard to manage though
That's called survival at 30k lol
@@Buzzinpattaya yes but can be done
We are living at the east side dark side(kah Noi) our monthly budget is 80k plus holiday budget of 20k... We have a house in a nice community with a pool…... Quite happy with the situation..😊
Mate totally agree
3 months in and enjoy yourself. 6 months at best. Then pull anchor and sail on for a few months.
gotcha
Thanks trev, good info, appreciate it, cheers!
Any time!
Trev, what’s happening with pension.if I am only receiving a UK state pension, which will be around £12,450 yearly in 2026 will this be tax free to receive in Thailand- can you find out for myself and other subscribers 🙏 By the way never received my newsletter !
Well, I'm not Trev, but TAX FREE is only 150000 Baht a YEAR.
Sorry mate, 150,000 baht are you certain about that - that seems very low. Your state pension in the UK is tax free up to 12,400 a year I believe, so how can you be taxed on this
Can of worms right no mate am trying to find out
The worst thing is that your pension would be frozen forever at £12,450 per year as the UK gov doesn't increase it in line with inflation. If you move abroad
Have your pension paid into a UK account and with draw money on a monthly basis using a fee free credit/debit card, if you live in Thailand permanently your pension will never receive a pension uplift with inflation and will be frozen at whatever rate you get when it starts to pay out.
Use an accomdation address in the UK like a trusted relative to keep your pension inflation proofed.
Really sound, balanced, and helpful advice.👍
Thank you so much
Can I just stay at the Buzzin Lounge?
If we have a room sure mate
@Roger... there is a sofa upstairs you can use for free, but it's usually occupied by Sugar, Saoh, Indy, Paw, Praew etc etc etc🤣🤣🤣
@@SoybooCow 😲
Thanks Trev!!........That's a nice overview. And to the point!................. khxbkhun mak kop🙏
Thank you mate, much appreciated
Hi Trevor really good advice and lots a things to think before doing the move permanently like for me i'm checking for my 2 cars if we allowed to bring because like you know our steering wheel is on the left side but anyway i have many things to think i've got 2 houses but this isn't a problem one i rent and is the same guys for 20years is renting is a friend and the one i stay my daughter she's living on the first floor and me in the bachelor anyway i will see how it goes i will come at least for2months so will see thanks Trevor have a excellent day Trev and take care and stay safe. sawatdeekhrap kopkounmakkrap. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
cheers mate and wish you all the best
Great video injoy watching it 👍😁📹
Thank you 👍
great advice as always.
Thanks for watching!
Sir,,commodore,,Trevor,,and I said it again great video mate,,iam taking notes religiously,,hey,,somebody and other people tells me go for Jomtien area to reside,,what do you think,,?? And thanks again mate,,!!!!😊😊😊
Jomtien is very nice
Great vlog Trev, if i was living there I dont think I would cook much, I remeber the tin cup restaurant, excellent value and also the likes of Kiss. Deffo need something to do there or the daytime drinking would take a grip 🙂
Hahaha brilliant mate that was a great place
I retired early at age 48 and will be moving to Thailand next year to try it out for a year. One thing I know is inflation is still ravaging through the entire world. Until I can access my retirement accounts at age 60+ my budget will be around $3k/mo. Seems like it will be enough, but cost of living even in Thailand is no joke and will require discipline for sure. Luckily I have pretty good discipline learned over the years
Wish you well mate
I admit getting bored after 1 month else I'd have a Bar or something. Keep in mind a video for the new ETA in December as this reduces Passport Control time lots.
Cheers mate and yeah will do
The value is so damn good in pattaya!
so good mate as ya said
Great advice as always 👍 remain steadfast fella
Thanks 👍
I live in Bang Saray and comfortably live off 35000 baht
Nice one
Trevor,good to meet you again as always.and you STILL beat me at pool😢,my day WILL come lol.can you give an average monthly cost for electric/water aircon.these are the.only two expenses that I have no idea of.unless I can live with sugar 555!!!!!!🤣
Haha cheers mate thank you
Great watching trev. Do you have direct email for Martin for renting condo please
In video description mate
"Family visits". My brother is coming over at the end of the month. He paid for his flights I pay for all hotels. I would never without good reason go back to the UK so my contribution is the hotel costs. That gives as peace to spend as we like worry free day and night touring around with all admin settled.
Im doing exactly as you've mentioned, budget for western food and high end Thai food. 140 - 200 per meal. When the novelty wears off and the snacks kick in the savings will build up. The 7/11 mom and pop beers on the balcony, the walk around and beaches likewise add up to the savings all the better for markets, activities and nightlife.
A typical scenario is land, dump the bags and straight into the first bar, lady drinks with new heavenly friends, back to the room showered and changed, pub crawl dropping off lady drinks all the way to a nightclub.
Morning, seen nothing not even the room, skint, off to ATM and the nearest bar same again. 555😂. All done years ago. I have to put the effort in and let my brother sample the newbie way.
thanks for sharing
@thesheperd7567 This is a man who learns buy his mistakes 😂
Thanks for the info. I reached out about a week ago and as promised, you have delivered 👍. If I have one criticism (and please understand I'm making a bit of a joke here) it's that us Scots aren't an independent country so it's the BRITISH pound not the English one 😁🏴🏴🏴🏴
Lol all good
dunno where to ride my racing bike. Tried riding around 2nd road beach road and down to na jomtien and back but the roads are atrocious. was bunny hopping everything, getting chased by dogs, and swerving for storm drains constantly.
sukhumvit down to Big Buddha mountain mate, all around there are some really nice rides. done them many times
Taking a taxi 5-10-15(🙈) miles and walked home, I have done that in the West.., Cheers mate🙂.
No problem 👍
Hi Trevor is 55,000 baht a month a good salary for a single person with around £12k in savings ?
You can certainly live off that yes
Isn't the exchange rate 33 34 not 43?
UK is 43 mate
Great info Trevor 👍
Thanks 👍
So basically with me retiring on 5000 pounds a month is doable. Thanks for the info
on that budget easy mate
Great video. Thank you.
Glad you liked it!
The weekend run 😃
Nice one Ian mate , Enjoy your weekend 👍🏼🍻🇦🇺
BOSH!! nailed it mate, have a great weekend
@sandgroper1980 Cheers Have a good weekend S 😃
I think the biggest money pits are booze'n'boobs...
Don't forget the vertical smile bars .
lol
34 to 40 per liter for petrol is expensive! A liter is basically one forth of a gallon
Okay
I have a condo in pattaya and spend 4 months a year there. I wouldnt live there full time. I like England during the summer and thailand during the winter, perfect for me. Dont have to deal with health care, tax, banking and pension issues.
Do you rent either place out while you're not in them?
No wouldnt bother with the hassle.
fair one mate
Do you take out your bank's health insurance for the months that you're in Thailand? My NatWest insurance partner was quite cheap in recent year's but they've got a new supplier this year, so who knows??
Support. Needed Trevor. I've heard a few guys mention art therapy in Pratanup. Or Yoga. Get inti that paint brush frame and design. It's wow. It's important to touch base also with fair haired middle aged Palate's types who can help. Art therapy. Consider.
Suggestions. Received. Putting on sum stretchy trousers and weaving a basket could be the best afternoon you've invested in. For guys who need a teacher in... Calms.
Cheers
Thank you for useful information
Welcome
Wont try to bore you too much but im living on a UK pension only around 35k..ish, im in an 8k 34sqm decent condo in Jomtien, utilities around 1k, 100 metres from the beach. i have a bar girl girlfriend who takes no money apart from food that i buy her, she mostly sends her money home or shopee. We live comfortably within our budget we go to restraunts every few days, goto Lotus for food once or twice a month.. and i dont eat Thai food, so theres three or four deliveries a month to the expat shops, around 1.2k at a time. Really we do our own thing and dont suffer, i dont drink or smoke or visit bars, which is a big help and where the majority would fail quickly on a uk pension i think. The alternative in the uk. stay in a one bedroomed flat and deal with the cold and misery, on the same amount of money.. no thanks. On saying the above, I would not advise anyone coming here to try and live on that amount really as most peoples comfort levels and wants are much higher.
Nobody gets a free girlfriend in Pattaya
@@philipcliff-ig1is ok philip, i respect your answer as many have the same opinion, but she lives with me, no problem, going on two years now. Remember I pay the rent and buy her food, she is happy with that.
@@Khun-j6n you have hit lucky mate
@@philipcliff-ig1is believe me I know, I will roll with it until she decides to move on.
Hi, what are the names of the expat shops you mentioned that you get deliveries from?
Would like to see a cost / benefit, pros / cons video about renting vs. buying a scooter / motorbike over long time vs short time. (Sorta like a woman ;
Okay mate
If in the West on a pension 1500 pounds you have got to live on a budget the same applies to Pattaya to the climate is a big issue the heat if your a sensible person with common sense in 2 more years I retired moving out to Pattaya to retire I am a veteran in Pattaya since 1995 back out on holiday in November cannot not wait
You have to budget wherever you live in the world, Pattaya is just far cheaper- £1000 is probably equivalent to £1500 or more in the UK. If you are sensible you should be to live considerably cheaper in Thailand- even with your visa and healthcare, just do your sums
Fair shout mate
Great info. I choose City Center.
nice one mate
Thank u , nice sum up
Cheers mate
1 month ago company 2000 to 3000 bht for the evening. In the uk similar but not as good would cost 50k bht equivalent or more. 25x more! I can’t help thinking we are being over charged here 😂
Thanks for sharing
1500Baht for as long as you want until you are finished. Bangkok has the greatest transport in the world. So much to choose from. Pint of beer 200 Baht. Food unbelievably cheap. Large coffee and chocolate biscuit 0.18 Baht.
Cheers for sharing
Excellent, thank you.
You are welcome!
Great video trev
Thanks 👍
Buy a condo.. 1 point 2 million.. buy a decent used truck 200 grand buy motorcycle 40 grand.
Done ! The end of the road , give it all to your care giver. It's a wonderful life.
Been here 30 years.. ( cook at home.. super cheap. )
Thank you
Why buy when renting is so cheap and no real strings attached?
@@ScooterOnHisWay2024 4000 dollars per year for rent . I've lived here 30 years
Nice condo near the beach with a big pool. Parking for truck and bikes.
Rent - don't buy!
Okay
..and only go short-time, never get involved or married.
Looking to come on holiday. Would like to arrange to meet you for consultation. And to create a great list for a 2 week stay. Best GC’s best restaurants best excursions etc. happy to pay you for your advice. As I’m probably coming on my own It would be great to have you as a trusted source. Thank you.
Sure.mate no problem
@@Buzzinpattaya big love and respect for that!
My advice is buy on the other side of the main highway, living in town will drain you. It is a lot more peaceful on the dark side.
Indeed
Who wants peace in pattaya 😂 😂 😂
@@Ardoyne10 When you have been there a while believe me it is nice to get out and away from the madness in the town centre, especially when you are knocking on a bit 👍🤣🤣👍
Minus the golf because I have no interest I could live a pretty good standard of living for 1500 pounds pm...
Nice one
just back from Pattaya 4 days ago... average most ladies are asking for 1500 for St and then for LT ( who the hell wants LT only fools and Chinese-Koreans) prices go from 2500 to 4000.
why would I spend 4000 for LT when most of the time the girl would be asleep, Am I paying her 4000 for sleeping... the hell with that... 4000 give you 2ST with 2 different girls, no brainer.
And just a little tip...if you treat the lady good and you behave she must even give you your fun for free or the typical "up to you"
Thanks for sharing
Trev, can you do a vlog about UK pension payments in Thailand
Working on it
Thanks Trev, that will be of great help 🙏
Assuming you have 35 years NI contributions, you qualify for a full UK state pension at age 66 (soon 67). It will be paid gross of UK tax assuming you are Thai resident (180 day rule) , but subject to Thai tax under their worldwide income rule. Note the pension paid to you in Thailand will never increase. Also note the risk of having income paid in £s, but expenses payable in baht - could you cope if the exchange rate was say 30 -35 in 5 - 10 years?
@@philipbarnard2474 its like 221 pounds a week I believe the full pension?
@@philipbarnard2474 Would two UK bank accounts not allow annual increases, where IR pays into one account, and you transfer it to another UK account before sending it to Thailand.
Salut Trev.Nice vidéo.😄👍
Cheers mate
Cool man, thanks Mr buzz....See there soon....Smitty Metro Cebu
nice one mate
He was pointing a camera at Tony’s gym and saying average price of a gym is 1000… Tony’s is only 700 a month!!!
Hence the word "AVERAGE" 🤔🤔🤔🤔
GYMs have different options, for example, my GYM has an 900 per month membership and a 1200 per month membership. For 900 a month I can use the GYM only at certain hours, and during those hours the AC is off, for 1200 a month, I can use the GYM anytime, and believe you me, working out in a GYM with no AC is not advised.
It's good to learn I reckon
@@Buzzinpattayanice
- incredibly helpful Trevor. Hope all ok. Jonno
I hope so too!
good words, thanks buddy
My pleasure
Don't forget you will get older each year. Health Insurance increases in line and then goes up massively when you hit 70.
well said
Nice info
I live in pratamnak l bought a condo here it's my perferd area to live Pattaya city center by motorcycle about 5 minutes jomtien about 3 minutes by motorcycle
Wow nice
Thailand cost of living - how long is a piece of string?. Rent an 8k per month room and eat cheap food from the food courts.
Or rent a pool villa and eat at expensive western restaurants , have a girlfriend or not?.
Up to you really , what life do you want and what are your resources?.
yeah so many variants