A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Phuket (Thailand). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
| Category | Chiang Mai | Phuket |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Thailand | Thailand |
| Currency | THB (฿) | THB (฿) |
| 1BR Rent Range | ฿6,500 - ฿18,000Cheaper | ฿9,000 - ฿27,000 |
| 2BR Rent Range | ฿11,000 - ฿30,000Cheaper | ฿14,000 - ฿42,000 |
| Groceries / mo | ฿6,000Cheaper | ฿7,000 |
| Transport Pass / mo | ฿1,500Cheaper | ฿2,000 |
| Dining Out / mo | ฿3,500Cheaper | ฿4,500 |
| English Level | 3/5 (Moderate) | 3/5 (Moderate) |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 4 | 4 |
| Healthcare System | Public + Private | Public + Private |
Overall, Chiang Mai tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use the same currency, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.
4 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Thailand
View Chiang Mai details4 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Thailand
View Phuket detailsEnter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Chiang Mai and Phuket.
Open the comparison calculatorBased on our data, Chiang Mai is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle.
In Chiang Mai, 1-bedroom rents range from ฿6,500 to ฿18,000 per month across 4 neighborhoods. In Phuket, 1-bedroom rents range from ฿9,000 to ฿27,000 per month across 4 neighborhoods.
A monthly public transport pass costs ฿1,500 in Chiang Mai and ฿2,000 in Phuket. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Chiang Mai has an English proficiency rating of 3/5 (Moderate) and Phuket rates 3/5 (Moderate). Chiang Mai uses Public + Private healthcare, while Phuket uses Public + Private. Both factors are important for expats considering a move.