Top 5 Expat Cities in Thailand

Where Thailand’s biggest expat communities actually live — and why these cities continue to attract foreigners from all over the world.

Thailand has long been one of the world’s top destinations for long-term expats, retirees, remote workers, and digital nomads. But while thousands of foreigners arrive each year, only a handful of cities consistently attract the majority of long-term residents. These places combine community size, lifestyle appeal, strong infrastructure, good healthcare, accessible visa options, and a welcoming social environment—making them the true hubs of expat life in Thailand.

Below is a clear and updated look at the top five cities with the largest expat populations in 2025, along with why each destination continues to grow and what types of foreigners tend to thrive there.

1. Bangkok — Thailand’s Global Capital

Estimated expat population: 250,000–400,000+

Bangkok stands alone at the top of the list, housing more foreigners than the rest of Thailand combined. As the nation’s center for business, education, culture, and transportation, the city has become the default landing point for anyone looking for opportunity in Southeast Asia. Expats come for very different reasons—some arrive for career growth, others for study, and many more simply because Bangkok offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Thai life.

What makes Bangkok so attractive is the sheer variety it offers. The city’s international job market is unmatched in Thailand, with opportunities in teaching, technology, hospitality, business, and creative industries. Healthcare is another major draw. Bangkok’s private hospitals are among the best in Asia, offering world-class specialists and modern facilities at prices far lower than in the West. Add in a reliable mix of public transportation (BTS, MRT, Airport Rail Link), international schools, coworking spaces, and endless dining and entertainment options, and it’s easy to understand why so many foreigners build long-term lives here.

Bangkok’s neighborhoods also make settling in easy. Thong Lo and Phrom Phong offer luxury condos and international dining; Asoke and Nana provide business connectivity and nightlife; while areas like On Nut, Udom Suk, Lat Phrao, and Ari attract younger professionals and digital nomads looking for a balance of modern living and local charm.

Best for: Expats who want convenience, career opportunities, and a fast-paced, international environment—professionals, teachers, students, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads who thrive in a vibrant global city.

2. Pattaya / Chonburi — Thailand’s Retiree Hub

Estimated expat population: 60,000–100,000+

Located just 90 minutes from Bangkok, Pattaya has evolved into one of the world’s largest retiree destinations. It remains extremely popular with Western foreigners who want warm weather, good healthcare, and beach life at a price far lower than back home. Its long-term expat community is not only large but also unusually active—clubs, social groups, sports leagues, volunteer organizations, meetups, and expat-run businesses are everywhere.

Though Pattaya is famous for nightlife, it also features quieter suburbs, beautiful beach neighborhoods, and modern residential communities. Areas like Pratumnak, Jomtien, Wongamat, and Na Jomtien attract long-stay residents who want peace while remaining close to the city center. Medical care is another major plus, with several international hospitals offering English-speaking specialists and affordable care.

Beyond Pattaya, Chonburi province has one of Thailand's strongest economies. Industrial zones such as Laem Chabang and Si Racha attract thousands of Japanese, Korean, and Western professionals working in engineering, logistics, and technology. This combination of retirees and working professionals makes Pattaya and surrounding areas one of the most diverse expat regions in the country.

Best for: Foreigners seeking an affordable beach lifestyle, retirees wanting strong healthcare and community support, and long-stay expats who enjoy a mix of relaxation and social activity.

3. Chiang Mai — Northern Lifestyle Capital

Estimated expat population: 40,000–60,000

Chiang Mai is widely seen as the cultural heart of Northern Thailand, and for many expats, it offers the perfect balance of comfort, affordability, and relaxed living. Nestled among mountains, forests, and rivers, the city draws digital nomads, teachers, creatives, and wellness-focused expats who prefer a slower pace compared to Bangkok or Pattaya.

One of Chiang Mai’s most appealing qualities is its cost of living. Rent is significantly cheaper than in the capital, yet the city has excellent cafés, restaurants, coworking spaces, and gyms. Neighborhoods like Nimmanheiman and the Old City are filled with remote workers and long-stay visitors, while Hang Dong, Mae Rim, and San Kamphaeng offer more space, nature, and modern housing developments.

Chiang Mai has also become a hub for wellness and self-improvement. Meditation retreats, yoga studios, Muay Thai gyms, massage schools, and healthy cafés are part of everyday life here. Despite being more laid-back, Chiang Mai still offers reliable healthcare, international schools, shopping malls, and strong internet—making it highly livable for long-term expats.

Best for: Digital nomads, teachers, writers, creatives, and retirees who value culture, calm, nature, and a strong sense of community.

4. Phuket — High-End Island Living

Estimated expat population: 30,000–50,000

Phuket is Thailand’s most developed island and one of the most popular expat destinations in all of Southeast Asia. Unlike smaller islands, Phuket offers the full combination of tropical beauty and urban convenience. Its international airport, modern hospitals, luxury villas, international schools, and strong infrastructure make it ideal for long-term foreigners who want island life without sacrificing comfort.

The expat community in Phuket is incredibly diverse. Families settle in areas like Kathu, Cherng Talay, and Rawai; long-term tourists and remote workers favor Kata and Karon; and entrepreneurs often cluster in the Bang Tao–Laguna area, which has become one of the most upscale regions in the country. Phuket also attracts athletes, surfers, divers, and fitness enthusiasts thanks to its beaches, training camps, and outdoor lifestyle.

The cost of living is higher than in Chiang Mai or Pattaya, but many expats feel the quality of life justifies the expense. Whether enjoying beach cafés, sailing clubs, sunset viewpoints, or wellness spas, Phuket offers a uniquely high standard of tropical living.

Best for: Affluent retirees, remote workers, hospitality professionals, families, and expats who want modern infrastructure paired with beautiful beaches.

5. Hua Hin — Thailand’s Classic Expat Beach Town

Estimated expat population: 20,000–30,000

Hua Hin is one of Thailand’s oldest foreign communities, known for its gentle pace of life, clean beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. Located about three hours from Bangkok, Hua Hin is particularly popular with retirees from Scandinavia, the UK, and mainland Europe—many of whom stay for years or maintain holiday homes in the area.

What makes Hua Hin appealing is its balance of calm and comfort. The town is relaxed and safe, but still has excellent hospitals, large supermarkets, international restaurants, and modern condos. Many expats appreciate its absence of chaotic nightlife and its emphasis on golf, beach walks, markets, and outdoor living. Hua Hin is also more affordable than Phuket, yet offers a similar coastal lifestyle on a quieter scale.

The surrounding area adds to the charm. Pranburi, Khao Takiab, and Cha-Am each have their own character, giving expats a variety of neighborhoods to choose from—even if the overall vibe remains peaceful and community-oriented.

Best for: Retirees, families, and long-term foreigners seeking quiet beach life, reliable amenities, and a more mature expat community.

Final Thoughts

These five cities represent Thailand’s largest and most established expat populations in 2025, and each one offers a unique lifestyle. Bangkok delivers opportunity and energy; Pattaya blends affordability with strong community life; Chiang Mai provides calm and culture; Phuket offers tropical luxury; and Hua Hin is ideal for peaceful coastal living.

Whether you're looking for big-city excitement, mountain serenity, island comfort, or a quiet beach town, Thailand offers a destination that fits your style. For expats planning a long-term move, these five cities remain the country's true centers of foreign life—and the best places to start your new chapter in Southeast Asia.