British expat reveals retirement costs in Thailand, sparking relocation dreams
Survey shows locals fear rising prices despite foreign retirees praising affordability
A British expat broke down the cost of living for his retirement in Thailand on TikTok, prompting many of his followers to consider relocating to the country.
The man, Simon Thatcher, shared the video on his account, @skyhighthaisi, detailing his monthly expenses to show whether living in Thailand is still affordable in 2025.
Thatcher explained that he lives under a retirement visa, which costs 1,900 baht for the annual renewal, plus 15,000 baht in fees to a visa agent who simplifies the process for him. When asked about his occupation, he said he only invests.
The British man went on to outline his monthly expenses. Thatcher pays 8,000 baht (≈ £180) for a one-bedroom condominium in Nonthaburi, just outside Bangkok. The building includes a gym, swimming pool and sauna, all without additional membership fees. He described his accommodation as quiet, clean and comfortable.
Other costs include:
- WiFi: 1,000 baht (≈ £23) per month
- Electricity: 1,200 baht (≈ £28) per month
- Drinking water: 60 baht (≈ £1.40) per month
- Mobile top-up and transport: 3,000 baht (≈ £70) per month
- Health insurance: 4,000 baht (≈ £100) per month
Thatcher said he was especially impressed with food prices, averaging 50 baht (≈ £1.40) per meal, or around 150 baht (≈ £3.50) a day. His morning coffee costs just 25 baht (≈ £0.58).
He admitted that he occasionally opted for more expensive Western food, but balanced this with cheaper local meals, keeping his costs reasonable.
For daily services, Thatcher spends 100 to 150 baht (≈ £2.30 to £3.50) on a haircut, 200 to 300 baht (≈ £4.60 to £7) for an hour-long massage, 210 baht (≈ £4.90) on cigarettes, and 260 baht (≈ £6) for three bottles of beer, which he drinks almost daily.
He concluded that he spends around 35,000 to 45,000 baht (≈ £814–£1,046) per month and lives very comfortably in Thailand. He added that the cost of living is far cheaper than in London, although it ultimately depends on individual lifestyle and choices.
Many of his followers said they were tempted to move to Thailand after watching the video.
However, while expats and foreign viewers may find Thailand affordable, a Marketbuzzz survey of 865 Thai citizens revealed that 42% are deeply concerned about rising prices and the increasing cost of living. The survey also found that many families are struggling with higher daily expenses while wages remain stagnant.
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