×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Rayong
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Cost of Living in Rayong

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Rayong helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Rayong is around 8,000 THB per month, while outside of the city center it can be as low as 5,000 THB. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 15,000 THB per month, while outside of the city center it can be as low as 10,000 THB.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Rayong varies depending on the size and location. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 1.5 million THB, while outside of the city center it can be as low as 1 million THB. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 3 million THB, while outside of the city center it can be as low as 2 million THB.
Transportation Public transportation in Rayong is relatively inexpensive. A one-way ticket on the bus costs around 10 THB, while a one-way ticket on the train costs around 20 THB. Taxis are also available and the cost of a ride depends on the distance traveled.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Rayong is relatively inexpensive. Basic items such as rice, vegetables, and fruits can be purchased for as little as 20 THB per kilogram. Other items such as meat, fish, and dairy products can be purchased for around 50 THB per kilogram.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Rayong varies depending on the type of restaurant. A meal at a local restaurant can cost around 100 THB per person, while a meal at a more upscale restaurant can cost around 300 THB per person.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Rayong is relatively inexpensive. The average cost of electricity is around 5 THB per kilowatt-hour, while the average cost of water is around 20 THB per cubic meter. The cost of internet and cable TV can vary depending on the provider.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Rayong varies depending on the school. Preschool tuition can range from 10,000 THB to 20,000 THB per year, while elementary school tuition can range from 20,000 THB to 40,000 THB per year. Middle school tuition can range from 30,000 THB to 60,000 THB per year, while high school tuition can range from 40,000 THB to 80,000 THB per year.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Rayong

"The cost of living in Rayong is considered to be relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Thailand. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is quite reasonable, while outside the city center, it is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also quite low. Groceries in Rayong are also affordable, with local markets offering fresh produce at lower prices. Eating out at inexpensive restaurants is also quite cheap, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant is moderately priced. Transportation costs in Rayong are also low, with affordable public transportation options such as buses and taxis. Gasoline prices are reasonable, making owning and operating a vehicle a viable option for many. Healthcare in Rayong is also relatively affordable, with good quality medical services available at reasonable prices. Fitness club and sports memberships are also reasonably priced. Entertainment options such as cinema tickets, nightlife, and other leisure activities are also quite affordable in Rayong. Overall, the cost of living in Rayong is quite low, making it an attractive option for both locals and expatriates," said one expat living in Rayong.

Can I live in Rayong on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Rayong for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. I recommend looking for a place in neighborhoods like Ban Chang or Nikhom Phatthana, where you can find a decent apartment or house for around $300 to $500 a month. These areas are a bit further from the city center, but they're still close enough to enjoy the local amenities.You'll also need to be mindful of your spending on food and entertainment. Eating out at local Thai restaurants and street food vendors is quite affordable, with meals costing around $1 to $3. However, if you prefer Western-style restaurants or more upscale dining, you'll need to budget accordingly, as these can be more expensive. Cooking at home can also help you save money, as groceries are relatively cheap in Rayong.As for transportation, using public transportation like songthaews (shared taxis) or motorbike taxis is the most cost-effective option. Owning a car or motorbike can be more convenient, but it will also add to your monthly expenses. If you're working in Rayong, try to find a place close to your workplace to minimize transportation costs.When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of affordable options in Rayong. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, visit local markets, or explore the nearby islands on a budget. However, if you're into more expensive hobbies like golfing or scuba diving, you'll need to budget for those activities as well.In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the modern amenities you're used to, like high-speed internet or a gym membership. While these services are available in Rayong, they can be more expensive than in your home country. Additionally, you might have to adjust to the local culture and lifestyle, which can be a challenge for some expats.Overall, living in Rayong on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. Avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Laem Mae Phim or Ban Phe, where rent and overall living costs can be higher. By finding an affordable place to live, eating local food, and enjoying the many budget-friendly activities Rayong has to offer, you can live comfortably and enjoy your time in this beautiful part of Thailand," commented an expat living in Rayong.

Can I live in Rayong on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Rayong for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll need to choose a neighborhood that's affordable but still offers the conveniences you're used to. I'd recommend looking into areas like Ban Chang, Nikhom Phatthana, or Mueang Rayong. These neighborhoods have a good mix of local and expat residents, and you can find decent apartments or houses for rent at reasonable prices. For example, you can find a nice 2-bedroom apartment for around $500-$600 per month.On the other hand, I'd avoid neighborhoods like Hat Mae Ramphueng or Laem Mae Phim, as these are more touristy areas with higher prices for accommodation and other expenses.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive in Thailand due to import taxes and high fuel costs. Instead, I'd recommend getting a motorbike or using public transportation like songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks. This will save you a significant amount of money each month.Eating out can also be quite affordable if you stick to local Thai restaurants and street food, which are not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. However, if you prefer to eat at more upscale restaurants or international chains, you'll need to budget accordingly as these can be quite expensive.Another sacrifice you might have to make is cutting back on some of the luxuries you're used to, like having a gym membership or going to the movies frequently. While these activities are available in Rayong, they can be quite pricey compared to what you might be used to paying back home.Lastly, you'll need to be mindful of your utility bills, especially air conditioning. Electricity can be quite expensive in Thailand, so try to use fans and natural ventilation as much as possible to keep your costs down.Overall, living in Rayong on $3,000 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, and enjoying local cuisine, you can live comfortably while still enjoying the modern amenities you're used to," said one expat living in Rayong.

Can I live in Rayong on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Rayong for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. In fact, you might not even have to make too many sacrifices to make it work. Rayong is a relatively affordable city compared to other popular expat destinations in Thailand like Bangkok or Phuket.When it comes to housing, you can find a nice apartment or even a small house for around $500 to $1,000 a month, depending on the location and the amenities you're looking for. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods to consider are Ban Chang, Nikhom Phatthana, and Klaeng. These areas are a bit further from the city center, but they offer a more laid-back atmosphere and lower living costs. On the other hand, if you want to be closer to the action, you might want to look into the more expensive neighborhoods like Mueang Rayong or Ban Phe, where rents can be higher.As for transportation, you can either rent a car or a motorbike, which will cost you around $100 to $300 a month, depending on the type of vehicle you choose. Alternatively, you can use local transportation like songthaews (shared taxis) or tuk-tuks, which are quite affordable and can get you around the city easily.When it comes to food, you have a wide range of options in Rayong. You can enjoy delicious and cheap street food for just a couple of dollars per meal, or you can dine at more upscale restaurants for around $10 to $20 per person. Groceries are also quite affordable, especially if you shop at local markets.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there's plenty to do in Rayong without breaking the bank. You can visit the beautiful beaches, explore the local markets, or take part in various outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, or golfing. There are also plenty of bars and clubs where you can enjoy a night out without spending too much.In terms of healthcare, you'll find that medical services in Rayong are quite affordable compared to Western countries. You can visit private clinics or hospitals for routine check-ups and treatments without worrying about high costs. However, if you need specialized care or more advanced medical facilities, you might have to travel to Bangkok, which is about a 2-hour drive away.Overall, I think you'll find that living in Rayong on a $5,000 a month budget is not only possible but also quite comfortable. You might have to make some minor adjustments to your lifestyle, but you'll still be able to enjoy modern amenities and a high quality of life," commented an expat living in Rayong.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides