The $3000 Dollar Thailand Budget! | Are You Sure You Want To Move Here? Can You Afford Pattaya?

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It's the only place I've ever lived in Thailand, but for my $3000 dollars, Pattaya is a great option. Hopefully, by the end of this video you'll know if you can afford it and want to move here or anywhere in Thailand.
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[@ChocolateManInThailand]

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[@roelandmastenbroek5998]

👍

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

They're are several options for longer stays in Thailand. Search for my visa video.

[@smoothwill]

That’s all you pay and that’s on the super high end and it’s just below 2700 dollars a month . So your living like 3 kings in Thailand for under 2700 dollars a month . So let’s say you add in clubs , girls , massages drinks at the club things of that nature , in your guesstimation , how much more you think that would be . Do you think even with all the woman the pussy the drinks everything I mentioned would you hit 3000 ?

[@smoothwill]

Question would you ever get married or are you married ? Would it be wise to get married ?

[@hectorjones5780]

@@smoothwill Why mess-up a good thing?

[@genebabit770]

I always said, if I move to Thailand, it's not because I want to live cheap, it's because I want to live well. This is the perfect budgeting video for those who aren't trying to pinch every penny.

[@jaredspencer3304]

Exactly this. In many ways, the life I live here isn't even available back in the States, regardless of how much money I have. Even still, I live in luxury for 1/10th of what it would cost back home.

[@minarsana]

Well said.

[@lineage13]

Honestly I think some KZbinrs are straight up lieing about how "cheap" cost of living is in Thailand.

[@OscarInAsia]

Exactly this!

[@smittdog1965]

Totally agree with Gene…..best video hands down on a good budget!

[@jonh.7661]

An important thing to consider for those thinking of coming to Thailand from the US is that the exchange is at about a 20year high. It's currently at about 1usd:38thb. A year ago it was at about 1usd:32thb. And that's about where the rate had been for most of the last 10yrs. If the rate slips back down to around 32, that 100,000thb per month would cost about $3, 100usd/mo rather than $2,600usd it's costing now. If you want to be safe, calculate how much you need (in USD) based on the lower avg exchange rate. 😉👍🏼

[@Minoritynomad]

yoooooo, THIS comment needs to be pinned. For several months brothers have been hitting me up about how "cheap" they can live here. I'm like yo, calculate it at 33-1. Because that's the normal range. This inflation is likely to not last. Especially given the recession that's about to hit HARD in the states.

[@jeffmazziotta]

very good point. the current exchange rates are not the norm and it is likely to eventually go back down to the 30 -32 baht range for $1 and so if someone is thinking LONG TERM those are numbers they should be thinking about. if someone is just thinking in the next 3-6 months maybe they dont need to worry about it as much :)

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

I'm safe down to 30 (it was at that level for nearly 10 years) to the dollar since thats what it was when I moved here and that was still amazing for me.🤷🏾‍♂️

[@jeffmazziotta]

@@ChocolateManInThailand yea in my brain I always calculate it at the 30 to 1 rate

[@jeffmazziotta]

Just like out here in Japan right now the rate is insane nearly 150 yen to $1 but traditionally the rate is 100 -102 yen to the dollar so I always think about ¥100 yen is $1. Of course I've lived in Japan for 8 years and my salary is in yen so I don't get to enjoy the nice dollar to yen exchange rate but yo for Americans...now is the time to visit Japan your money literally goes 40-50% further. What was once oh aight thats $100 USD now it's oh damn that's $66 USD...

[@jomontanee]

For Thais, 3000US a month, rent+food+leisure included, is A MILLIONAIRE LIFESTYLE.

[@exitrow767]

I live here in Pattaya too. Rolling along just like you bro. You are spot on, on all of the budget items and costs. I have been living the life here in Pattaya for 11 years. I want to say to all of your viewers, that all of your information is 100% correct! If viewers listen to you they will have accurate and Powerful information to assist in their future plans if they wish to live in Thailand. Nice Job, bro. I hope I get the chance to run into you one day. Maybe, in Big C Extra. Lol

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Thanks for sharing

[@OscarInAsia]

Finally! Someone with a realistic budget! So many other videos I've seen on this topic over the years have been scraping the ultra low end of the available options... Like 5k a month old crapbox apartments and eating nothing but 30bt bowl of noodles! Who wants to retire and live like that?! This video is realistic and spot on for budgeting a good life. Excellent, saving this to my favorites. 👍

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad it was helpful!

[@everydayentrepreneur2292]

So true

[@zedmak]

Damn, u can buy noodles for that..

[@jaredspencer3304]

I think two reasons why the entertainment budget drops over time: 1) you figure out what you like, so you don't waste money trying things, and 2) the bars/clubs/etc. you like realize that you'll be a long term customer, so they'll stop trying to gouge you as much as possible on each outing.

[@Minoritynomad]

yuppppppp. And the "shine" of it wears off. the same reason we rarely keep going to the clubs we did in our 20s. been there, done that. when you first move here it's exciting and new. then you start to see the "real" shit.

[@exitrow767]

Having lived here in Pattaya for 11 years, I have found that my entertainment budget is much cheaper because I know where to go for entertainment. In other words, I don't go to the tourists entertainment areas. I have found great places the locals go or I go to the places that long stay foreigners go.

[@standupphilosopher7059]

@@exitrow767 What are some of the tourist places to stay away from?

[@Minoritynomad]

@@standupphilosopher7059 Pretty much 80% of Pattaya. The list would be too long to post here. Pattaya is almost entirely catered to tourists. Start with Walking Street being the top of that list

[@scotthai62]

@@Minoritynomad Good Places for Long Termers....?....Interested to know is there eye candy there too....?

[@barryharvey1102]

This is one of your better budget videos. dynamic and straight to the point! Excellent! Thanks for your time on this...

[@etruscancivilization]

You covered a whole lot brother, and all information was 100% accurate from transportation, home/apartment rental, also car/Motorbike rental, healthcare, food costs based on if you eat out a lot, or eat at home, and whether you spend a lot or very little out on WALKING STREET, etc.. As for me I spend only 12,500 baht for rent which include all utilities which amounts to less than $400 usd per month, and I eat beans/brown rice, and mostly skinless chicken breasts cut up into small finger size pieces, which amounts to approximately 3,500 baht=$100 usd per month.. I will NEVER RENT A MOTORBIKE, or a car in Thailand because other than avoiding injuries or death, I also like AVOIDING any accidents that could cost me THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS because I'm a foreigner, and the Thai person will also be in the RIGHT ha ha.. At present I have a net income of approximately only $3,100 usd which at 38 baht for a dollar= 118 K baht, so I live off a budget of 42K baht per month which include rent=12,500, girlfriend=15,000, and I have 15K baht which I spend the 3,500 baht for my food, and I have 11,500 for my messing around money, then I SAVE 78,000 baht per month. I rarely drink any alcohol, but did stop by the "PLAYERS CLUB" on Soi Honey Inn since I saw it advertised on the "Zoom To Thailand" video just to see what it was like and to check out the "Toni Braxton" Look Alike who was advertised and chuckled down a Small "M" Beer for 75 baht, then drank water the rest of the night walking around for my daily exercise.. Like you stated brother, THAILAND IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT, and we can spend our money in many different ways. I save money because I will eventually return back to southern California, and with inflation rising as fast as it is, I HOPE TO BE IN A POSITION TO PAY CASH FOR A CONDO SO THAT I CAN AVOID RISING RENTAL COSTS . Always thinking ahead in case I'm on this earth for an even longer time.. Oh yeah, I NEVER smoked tobaccos of any kind, and that saves me a lot of money , especially since cigarettes are very expensive so I've been told. I have been saving around here since I retired as a probation officer at age 50 yrs old back in 2004, 18 yrs ago of monthly savings, and so far I have never been ill inside a hospital ever in my entire life, and I hope God keep on blessing me with excellent physical and psychological health 😇🙏ha ha ha..

[@KeenanModica]

Great post!

[@danhirsch6554]

I laughed when I saw girlfriend =15,000. Was that just negotiated at the beginning of your relationship?

[@hiddensoroush]

@@danhirsch6554 hahhah good one. Ya im not sure what he means… is he renting a girlfriend 🤣

[@happycarnivore..]

@@hiddensoroush In Pattaya you don't lose your GF you just lose your turn.

[@ChrisBird1]

Why would yo leave Thailand and your girlfriend if you have managed to save all that money and have been there 18 years? wouldn't it be better to see your days out there and not waste money buying a condo to die in ?

[@kpgrubb1]

Outstanding. Boom, boom, boom... you covered lots of excellent info here. Within like 60 seconds I was thinking "he must be a former military guy," then learned I was right! With other videos, I often grumble "get to the bloody point!" You're on point from beginning to end. Please keep doing these videos, we need a lot more like yours.

[@tmelitta51]

You're the first vlogger who has mentioned how Tricare or FMP works and that it works in Thailand!!!!

[@greggoes]

Thank you for providing the information. I just left from my vacation, specifically to prove these numbers and I found it all to be fairly accurate. Thanks for opening up your budget to us. Great information. See yall in 2 months, retiring. Really appreciate the VA benefits in Thailand information. Never seen that information.

[@hewesq]

Great video Chocolate man. Thank you for your service in the military. I spent 10 years active duty in the Air Force and 3 yrs in the Reserves. I came to Thailand for 30 days in May of 1998 as a Software Engineer for a military contractor. We stayed in a 5-star hotel in Jomtien but we spent a lot of time in Pattaya. We were supporting the Navy's Cobra Gold joint military exercise. I fell in love with the country and its people and didn't want to leave. I am retiring soon and have eyes on the Philippines, Thailand and Panama as retirement spots. Once again, thanks for the content. Hopefully, I'll get a chance to meet you and that short brother that's always jumping across the sky in his videos. 🇺🇸✨🇹🇭

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Great comment! Thanks for sharing!

[@GrahamC]

I own my own condo in Phuket which makes a huge difference to the 'entertainment'/Bangla Rd budget 😁 Seriously though, totally agree with you on the internet and phone, get the fastest available, and you have all the other figures pretty much spot on, electricity, water rates, etc. Whilst Western countries (I'm from UK) are struggling with high inflation, currency decreasing, high energy prices, etc. Living in Thailand is a no brainer for me, great place, great people and all at a reasonable cost. Good work James 🍺

[@shaunpierce4174]

As a fellow UK resident I'm seriously looking into moving to Thailand. I spent 3 months in Bangkok last winter (with a 2 week visit to Hua Hin as part of those 3 months) and was instantly hooked. Now I have to figure out where I'll get the most bang for my buck.

[@jaimeb2339]

@@shaunpierce4174 I would pick living by the beach over the city every time. City living is way more stressful than by the ocean. Being able to be by the water will increase your life expectancy. Calm. Fresh air. And, if you need a bit of excitement you can spend the 2 weeks in Bangkok. Also, Hua Hin will be cheaper than Bangkok in all categories.

[@emerson-sheaapril8555]

@@jaimeb2339 ya but Hua Hin is boring, most nights are dead, and the beach is obstructed by condos. I much prefer the beach walk ways of Jomtian and Pattaya, they are also closer to BKK. I can't say much about Phuket or Krabi.

[@jaimeb2339]

@@emerson-sheaapril8555 Totally agree Pattaya/Jomtien is a much better place to live than Hua Hin. I was only commenting on the choices the original poster (Shaun Pierce) had mentioned. I'd suggest live in each of these places for 6 months and then decide on a permanent location. Living in an area for extended period would give you a better sense of what it's really like to live there.

[@ijg8343]

I heard you can't truly own if your not native.

[@sthardman]

From my experience in Bangkok about 9/10 brick and mortar merchants accept Apple Pay (referred to as “tap to pay”). I’ve found it much easier and safer than using the physical card. Also the notification will auto convert the amount into USD so it gives me a better idea of what Im spending

[@KATPIFOOD]

wow man one of your best videos - me trying to come for 5 weeks has me smiling - once again thank you

[@razor282]

Wow! That was the most believable and comprehensive “expat” video I’ve seen over the years. You got straight to the point expressed and emphasized the variables, went fast and clear. What a great personality you have too. Awesome! Thanks!!!

[@davestherapy2866]

AWESOME video , Fear gone finally !! . $3000 / australian mth is what i make online ontop of a 9-5 job. Why work as a slave when i could ditch the 9-5 - no debts .. , build up the online business since i have the TIME ( the most valuable asset you own ) & live quite comfortably in thailand ? The only thing that was stopping me was not knowing anyone (fear ) the thing that stops most people from experiencing true freedom...videos like yours make me realise there are friendly people everywhere especially if you yourself are friendly...you get what you give ...time to fly ..thankyou so much .

[@jrfutube2013]

Excellent budget review. You are very clear and jovial in your presentation of Thailand budgeting 👍🏿💰

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great vid, definitely very accurate. Oh and congrats on 25k!!!!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Hey bro thanks for that. Hope you'll be back soon!

[@big_mon1]

What you forgot to mention regarding Tricare overseas is that you're required to pay your medical bills/fees up front and submit a claim for reimbursement.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Thats for a different video.

[@devildogpete]

@@ChocolateManInThailand looking forward to that video. Thanks.

[@edubb414bound9]

Oh wow that’s crazy..

[@kennethboehnen271]

Bangkok Hospital may bill direct?

[@dennythedavinchi3832]

@@kennethboehnen271 ya, why bother for delaying a bill.

[@coreylatta]

Moving out there in less than 6 months early next year. I am budgeting about this amount as a single guy. Military as well so the VA/insurance stuff is helpful as well. Great video as always.

[@bijanbayne3259]

I'm single, work from a laptop- looking to move there by March. Will come look @ apartments in Hua Hin, Jomtien & Phuket in Feb. I'm glad US vets have medical benefits there

[@justinpeepee8454]

Will be out there June/July 2023, also retired military.

[@sp1970ful]

Great breakdown! Sheds so much light on things. Good stuff my brother.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Pipe-Layer]

Thanks! C Man , thank you greatly for these videos. Since the plandemic, I've been watching a ton of you KZbinrs in Thailand. A long Thailand trip has always been on my bucket list. I'm almost ready to pull the trigger.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Don't hesitate! Escape the maddness today!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

THanks for the Super Thanks!

[@KangTheDigitalNomad]

Brother Chocolate Man in Thailand the algorithm is favoring the content uploads with the collabs, and new engagement & times you upload. Shout-out to you sir. Do it up brother 2023. Love the information.

[@mrsweeves7035]

Interesting.From my side I chose to stay in the quiet end of Jomtien. High floor apartment with nice ocean view 9,000 and paying about 300 a month for AIS internet which came with a free 5GB a month SIM card for the phone and I'm on video calls most of the day and it's plenty of bandwidth works smoothly.

[@localtime824]

Thanks Buddy! Good talk 👍🙂

[@davidmbugua4765]

This is a great informative video. We need more of this from you. Also a few real estate vids would be awesome too. Fah's great but this is more my style. Cheers

[@paymans1153]

Just found your channel. Greta video and fun delivery! I spend about 3K a month here in Toronto without leaving the house, eating out or anything while freezing half the year. Needless to say I’m out of here in the next week or so! 😎🤟

[@tresawoodward6366]

I just can’t get enough of your videos!!! You have excellent content and I appreciate all the information that you shared. Me and my husband have been watching you guys since we were in Jacksonville North Carolina which inspired us to come and now that we are here in Bangkok, I think we are going to have to make that move to Pattaya, based on all the information you gave we would fair better there especially with the break down you just gave…… we are so in there!!!! See you soon 🔜. When is the next meet up date and time ? Keep them videos coming!!!! I’m here for them all! 🤩😃

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

See ya soon. Usually meet ups on the first of the month if we're in town.

[@stephendear3545]

Man, I like the honesty of your video. I don't want to be in Thailand living as a pauper. Worked too hard for that. Your budget is the most realistic breakdown of living costs I've seen for living a good life and yet, not going bankrupt. Be safe.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

I appreciate that

[@rocknrollallnight1844]

I own my condo so that is an expense saved. I budget for everything else £1,300 a month and live very comfortably without really pinching. I like a regular massage, couple of beers most days, eating out, motobike (no car)... I live well and comfortably on that sum.

[@carlopepi]

How easy is it to buy a condo in pattaya/jomtien m8 what are you talking price wise is it easy to get tradesguys etc

[@Sunny-yr2oo]

@@carlopepi never buy your own condo in Thailand the ROI and resale value is not good, it is very good to buy anything in Dubai then rent it out and enjoy the rental money in Thailand

[@80SGIRL4EVR]

GREAT INFORMATION!!!!!! You are realistic with your prices! I appreciate that!!!!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

I appreciate that!

[@helloworldhello]

Great video James - been following the moment you entered Thailand. Loved watching it during the pandemic mainly. At that time, we were already in advanced stages of moving to Thailand and took the leap in July 2022. Living in Phuket (monthly expenses in baht): 35k for a 3-bedroom house with a pool. Less than 2k on utility per month, water incl. in rent, also garden and pool maintenance twice per week. We eat out 3 x per week: coming in at about 16k, groceries about the same 16k. Me and my wife insurance 7k, car rent and gasoline was about 17k, but we just bought the latest Ford Everest (safe travels), so transport cost is down to 5k, travelling 9k (been to Koh Samui 4 days), 2k miscellaneous (plants, haircuts, tools), 4k massage, visa extension costs 1.3k, Education visa 6k (year visa, we under 50), technology 2k (mobile phone 2k/ phone/ yr, netflix, 3BB Internet + TV package, HBO Go, Apple TV+).

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Great info. Thanks for sharing!

[@davidcarlton946]

I have lived in Thailand for about 10 years and find this budget very realistic. It would give you a good standard of living, which is what you want when you retire.

[@mrseasoner]

Great informative video!! I currently live in Pattaya and my budget is quite similar. The entertainment portion was literally burning a hole in my pockets for the first few months, but I've managed to scale back tremendously...

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@curtissturdivant5149]

Finally! Bruh... I love you videos. I never miss one. But dog..... I've been craving for you to put la budget video. Thank you so much, much appreciated!

[@sizzledizzle4926]

Awesome vid! You just Talked me into moving to Thailand when I retire!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

It's definitely worth a try!

[@jynzerx]

Great video. As a guy who's been to Thailand 10 times the last 4 years even during covid I can attest that if you don't party hard every single night and your a single guy you can definitely keep the cost down to $1500 a month but maybe even less. The only thing is if your under retirement age budget for plane tickets for visa runs and maybe going back home 2 time a year. My last trip, 2 months back I came on 30 visa on arrival, left early and went to Singapore for a week. Came back on visa on arrival, left early and went to Malaysia for a week and came back on visa on arrival. Each time getting the 30 day stamp with potential to extend. But my passport looks crazy and I never overstay so imagination just stamps me through

[@KO-OG-Passport-Bro-1997]

How long can you stay before u have to do a visa run? That's the only thing I worry about. I have heard horror stories about them not letting guys back in the country that live there.

[@jynzerx]

@@KO-OG-Passport-Bro-1997 they extended visa exempt to 45 days I think until March. So you can go 45 days and extend it in jomtien for another 45 days. Total of 90 days. But if I were you I would get a tourist visa which is 60 days extend that for 30 days. A total of 90 days. Then fly to Malaysia or cambodia for 1or 2 days. Then come back and get the 45 visa exempt. Then extend that for 45 days. Total 90 days. And your thailand stay would come out to be a total of 180 days. If your lucky like I was you can just fly out again and repeat

[@JohnnyTraveller]

Your budget is more than I make a week working full time in Australia 🤣, and I'm paying of a mortgage, new car and currently building our house in thailand 🇹🇭. But as you said depending on what you eat and how you live makes all the difference. Enjoy life its way to short.

[@JohnnyTraveller]

@brianjmt5213 you're so wrong, I suggest you get some legal advice from a Thai legal representative, you obviously have no idea. Have a good day

[@surangkanaho8338]

Thanks so much for covering Tricare in your video. Much help. Thank you

[@rei12figures4]

Bro this is a great video! Thanks for sharing your financial details. Tbh, $575/mth eating out daily for 2 is about what I spend on groceries for my 2 kids and myself. You are winning 👍🏾

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

No doubt!

[@JTCoinRings]

This was the best breakdown I’ve seen. Thank you 🙏🏿

[@chocolatebrownbrotha6167]

Awesome information Playa. Thanks so much 💯

[@bonzo1928]

Great video, totally honest and realistic. I have been here 23 years and understand everything you said. No BS ...great video

[@AllThingsKhem]

Great video! I’m Fern’s internet friend 😂 I’m Thai but also an American citizen.. I’ve been thinking longggg and hard about spending 3/4 months in Thailand through out the year so this video was SO helpful! Your spending and quality of living is similar to mine so this was very relatable. 😊😊

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

You can do it!

[@mikefree42]

This is what I'm talking about James!! Love these type of videos so informative especially coming from someone I trust. You the man Chocolate man. 😃👍

[@davedaniels4967]

James, that was really good! I know now, I should be able to live in Thailand on my retirement income. I would have cash from the sale of my home, car and other property to just sit in the bank. You gave us the keys to a successful move to paradise. I appreciate you!! 🙏

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

You're all set!

[@Zzz-tf5mw]

They are cheaper places to live in Thailand. You may opt to live within Chonburi but outside of Pattaya. (Pattaya is a part of Chonburi.) and you will find the cost of residence and food cheaper. Pathumthani also is an interesting choice. It lies next to Bangkok but the cost of living is significantly cheaper and no traffic jam. Also, it has been 2 metro lines connecting Bangkok and Pathumthani.

[@michaelkaufman9625]

put that $ in a high-yield savings acct or open a brokerage acct in singapore.....welcome!

[@davedaniels4967]

@@michaelkaufman9625 A high yield savings account for me would be 20% or more. They don't exist, and brokerage, I had strange Chinese women contact me and offer those kinds of things. I'm sorry, no trust there.

[@davedaniels4967]

@Zzz Yes, I have a friend and his wife sells apartments. I could get one there.

[@tonybodi8271]

Mate I really enjoyed the video. So much information. Really good. PS I really loved you in White Chicks the movie. 😊😊

[@BenjysLifeYT]

Dude, first time I have come accross your channel and this has been the best living costs video I have seen!!! Great work!!! I'm eyeing up the next 5 years sorting everything out here then moving there. I want to go elite visa route though so if you have any good info on that , that would be great 👍

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Welcome aboard! The elite visa is a great option, that I've enjoyed for the last 3 years. The official website is excellent and includes anything you could want to know about it. www.thailandelite.com/

[@kevinkelly2099]

Great job. I like that you are realistic with what you pay. So many are so fake trying to explain $1000 a month. Not realistic.

[@lifewithcapital]

This brings joy to my life man 💯 very informative and I’m definitely taking notes 📝 I could definitely survive on half your budget ✈️ coming soon

[@anthonytuggle5881]

Probably the most best and most realistic budget video this is the number i just set my budget for. Everyone leaves out entertainment in budgets. I dont understand why you would want to live in a place like pattaya and limit your lifestyle to save money.

[@mastermind2032]

Interesting to know. I work in the field of medicare and just discovered what tricare is, so that is awesome to see that it works overseas in Thailand as well!

[@antoniocasarez8546]

Damn, Great Video. Keep up the hard work. You're probably tired of the budget questions. Hey but these videos help alot! I started with Greeny, that lead to watching more videos and channels.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Never tired of helping people live a better life. Thanks for stoppin by!

[@williamknight5428]

Currently exploring to see if Pattaya will be my retirement destination. This info definitely helps. Thanks.

[@bijanbayne3259]

Same. Leaning Jomtien though

[@williamknight5428]

@@bijanbayne3259 Currently staying at a condo in Jomtien. It's a bit too far to get into town. I think I will try Central Pattaya for a while and see how that feels.

[@bijanbayne3259]

@@williamknight5428 LMK

[@martynrollinson]

Do it.... But some bad information in this video.

[@glaubhafieber]

When i arrived here, i started putting everyy baht into a budget app. After i did this for a few months, i realized that i never spent more than expected. I don’t live a cheap charlie life and still have a much nicer life than before. I also use my wise card to pay phone, electric and online shopping

[@maxcom01]

Electric and Water bills direct from the authorities can be paid at any 7/11 as long as they're within the due date. Overdue bills need to be paid at the PEA office or the Water Company office. Great video, I lived here for 30+ years, in Pattaya for 12 years.. my electricity bill is always 13-15 KB but it's a house with a pool and I got 7 Rough Collies and the Aircon is on all the time in at least one room for them 😁. Your figures are great for someone considering to move here and you're right, could be much less depending on what you actually end up doing.

[@snoopingpuppy8392]

30 years … how is that possible. Did you retire in your twenties? Would love to talk to you about the changes you’ve seen, experiences you’ve had. Maybe you should do a video with James … Please?

[@maxcom01]

@@snoopingpuppy8392 Hi there, I went to Thailand when I was 28 to work in a Television factory back in 1990 with a one year contract. After 17 years I was made redundant and couple years later everything moved to China. Yes I would love to meet and maybe do a video with James but I haven't met up with him yet 😁

[@elmoelbow]

@@maxcom01 I am sure you have a story. Curious, what is a television factory and how did you hear about that kind of job? Are you from the USA?

[@maxcom01]

@@elmoelbow I am from the UK and was working for a company taken over in 1987 by TCE (Thomson Consumer Electronics) who had also recently taken over RCA of America with the rights to market products under the GE brand as well. I was/am an engineer specialised in injection moulding and I came to Thailand to expand the facility with new equipment and machines to produce at least 1.5 million TV sets per year

[@thinkforyourself9334]

​@@snoopingpuppy8392 ż

[@AphrooneRichardson]

Chocolate Man you are the BEST CONTACT Brother in Thailand and Southeast Asia! Please keep up the great episode! Thanks!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Thanks! Will do!

[@picadosinferno]

I spent in Pattaya 3 months, not a heavy drinker and not into the bar scene that much but did eat out everyday, rented a scooter and had a decent condo with a pool, spent about $1,800 a month and didn't feel like I was holding up to save some cash, I really didn't. Money just goes much far in thailand.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Agreed!

[@itsmarcomarcel]

Is that $1,800 USD or $1800 baht?

[@Lindsay5846]

Fantastic vlog, very true and straight up, your videos are getting better and better, it's really informative to listen to you, it wasn't full of I'm doing bigger and better for cheaper, it was a true account, people can't go wrong with the advice and information that you give out, well done

[@franktaylor9799]

Hi James good and vital information about Thailand thanks for sharing these things with us hope you are well stay safe from frank in the uk London

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Thanks for watching Frank!

[@iseetheworldbywaywardsolez3146]

Thanks for the vlog. Good answers to the most asked questions.

[@minarsana]

I live in Singapore now - pay ~73k thb in rent for a small room. In Pattaya i used to spend ~75k/month total. Quality of life is much better in Thailand. Can’t wait to move back there

[@kenji4596]

Wow im from SG too. The end game plan is to rent a place there too and live on some passive earnings when i retire. Working hard on that. Probably less than your budget though

[@minarsana]

@@kenji4596 i dont own a place in SG. Have to live and work there but grateful I can travel to pattaya every month. End goal is to save enough to retire before 50 and chill in Pattaya

[@Tomred3006]

@@minarsana that’s also my plan. Do you mind sharing how much pm you will budget for? (Totally understand if you’d rather not). I’m hoping AUD $4k pm will cover it

[@minarsana]

@@Tomred3006 4k aud in thailand is enough imo.

[@FOCUSonASIA13]

Good video James! Budgets always depend on lifestyle...and how many ladies you are supporting lOL

[@francismartin2427]

It's going to get crowded because it's very reasonable. It can get very pricey too. I love Thailand😆!!!

[@MoreFormosa]

New subscriber here, from a fellow vlogger in the other Tai country... Taiwan. Just realized you're one of Page and Chucks friends, but didn't know you had your own channel. Was watching this post thinking 'hay this guy looks familiar'? Then put it together. Good video, great facts and details!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@jeeveswinston2545]

I think you hit most considerations. If someone answers your question, I too want to hear where you can live that level of lifestyle on under $3k. I am counting the days…about 600 work days. Sounds way less than 3years! 😅😅😅 But when you take out holidays, PTO a time it probably more like 450 work days. Living and enjoying life now, saving and downsizing. I’ll get there! Keep posting up the inspiration.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Hang in there. You know its worth it!

[@drinkslee]

Great stream pal u have giving me a good idea how much I can live in Thailand for with my money situation thanks man excellent 👍the best one I’ve seen about how much it cost in Thailand depending on the money we got 🙏

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad to help

[@TDCOOK]

Been there and Love It. Almost have my Girl convinced. Retiring in 1.5 yeaqrs on about $3600. Looks that will work there. Won;t work in San Diego..LOL.. Love the Videos

[@danhirsch6554]

Hey great video! I have been to Thailand 4 times while in the military and definitely want to go back. I am only 46, so not quite retirement age, but I do have 100% VA disability. Its paying me $4100 a month. Nice to know I can live like a king when I retire lol

[@Hmmm313]

Wow. 4100$. Damnnnn holy shit.

[@patrickglennon7058]

Retire now?

[@danhirsch6554]

@Patrick Glennon I wish I could. I have 13 year old daughter still in school. So I'll wait till after she's out of the house.

[@alexng7790]

Excellent information Jim. Thanks!👍👍

[@kevbocometh]

Just wanted to add some information about the Charles Schwab ATM and checking account. It's called an investors checking account and yes all of the transactions are refunded at the end of each month you do however need to have and investment account open to get it for free. I just put an old 401k worth 5 grand in it and I didn't even invest the money but I still reaped the benefits! I hope this helps somebody

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Yep. When I opened my investor account I immediately transferred all the funds to my checking and haven't used it since. 🤓

[@duvaughnyisrael2376]

Awesome, thanks

[@kleerogers]

excellent video!! I agree 100%, you CAN live on less than you mention in Thailand, but do you really want to? NOT ME, my wife and I live in Chiang Mai on $2,000 CA (Including health insurance for 2 people), about $1500 USD, EASILY!!!!, taking trips all over SE Asia, adding in vehicle rental, hotels in other places, etc etc, we can spent up to $3,000 CA, or about $2200 USD, that is on the HIGH SIDE!!!!!! Thailand wins in SE Asia, no comparison to the Philippines (where my wife is from), Thailand wins hands down as the best place to live in SE Asia

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Awesome. Great to see this.

[@aidjunkie5335]

Thanks for a great video James (about the best Ive seen on this popular subject), having lived in Phuket for three years i think you’re pretty spot on. Lots of my friends and me as well, live on around 1500 US per month without any issues, we all tend to go out a lot and enjoy a beer and socialising but we don’t hang out in any expensive places.. Medical insurance, you can pay for the local one, is a must however so do get that sorted if you come out to live here. Also factor in the cost of getting your visa ‘sorted’.

[@GarNelson1]

If I can add another banking point that applies to people paid by the US Government, Bangkok Bank works great for direct deposit of pension payments through the branch office in New York using the account number of your in Thailand personal account. My pension is OPM instead of DOD, but it direct deposits just fine and automagically shows up in my Thailand account around the first of each month.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Great info!

[@bobl7489]

Excellent info James, well formatted, anyone should be able to apply that info to their potential situation. The only thing i would add is a little general info on how visas can be an ongoing expense that people need to conciser.

[@j.p.downin8622]

Thanks very informative. I like that you just don't worry about being the cheapest, more about comfort and lifestyle.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

You bet!

[@marvinloveless769]

Just wanted to say, excellent video! I am retired Army my wife is originally from Thailand (raised in the USA (Military Dad) we are retiring in Thailand and are in the process of researching. Your video answered alot of question I had and even the Tricare Question and the surprise that VA works in Thialand. Thank you Very Much!!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Happy to help!

[@ReeshardTravel]

This was an excellent video James! Thanks for putting yourself out there. That's a realistic budget that I can relate to. THANK YOU! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@briannewton9369]

In Canada my accommodation alone is $2000 a month. So yeah, as a single guy who doesn't need to party three times a week, I would probably have a total spend of about $1800, based on some of your information here. I'd probably not rent a car, and I when I'm in Thailand I spend about 3000B a week on food.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Too easy for you. Thailand is waiting!

[@briannewton9369]

@@ChocolateManInThailand I'm working on it right now. I just need to square away some passive income sources and I'm there. Snowbirding for a couple of winters, then full time by 2025. Thank you for always being positive and encouraging.

[@kblack3970]

Very nice review or reveal of monthly expenses. My ears perked up when you mentioned military retirees & Tricare! Thanks and enjoy!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Hope it helped!

[@bellison4832]

James...I've been to Thailand around 9 times in the last 13 years. Thanks for your info. I'm an Army retiree with both VA and Army disability retirement. I'm supposed to Federal retire from my govt job in Feb of this year. I hope to try living in Pattaya for my first year and see where it goes from there. I'll be back for Water Festival in April with a friend. If you have a meet-up, l would love to buy you a beer and say hello. Take care bud.

[@Valen-xu2wy]

Try hua hin instead. More grounded for a future.

[@bigdaddyl-rob7445]

Great video James! That was a very honest upfront reasonable budget that everyone can relate to!

[@antonioperezosorio7647]

An honest budget video, realistic, no dreams, thanks. Happy travels and stay safe. God bless You guys👍🏿.

[@UncleJoe1231]

I'm coming back for a month in November & rented a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo for 20,000 baht. My girlfriend lives in Phuket. I'm 70 & she's 50 & is one of the nicest people I've ever met, so far!! LOL I'm thinking next year about starting to spend at least the winters there. I'm retired & live in Michigan & I'm tired of freezing my ass off every winter. I made my first visit in July & stayed in a 5-star resort for $28/day!! I can't believe how cheap things are there. Great video BTW!!!!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Thanks for sharing!

[@mikesands1613]

Great informative video. One thing I forgot about when planning a 2k monthly budget were the standing charges and bills (not mortgage or rent) due in my home country that needs to be considered when calculating overall costs. Easily forgotten.

[@thomasbradley6990]

I love watching you budget videos lots of great information

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Thanks so much!

[@gregorymccant442]

Man, you just knocked this one out the park!!! I'll be living up North in Chiang Mai, no car and my"entertainment" is on the moderate side so you hit my number right on the head at 1k!!! Thanks for reassuring my future budget in a simple, informative way!!!

[@r.peterlucarelli1605]

I live in Chiang Mai. My pension is $2200 and I live on half of that. Rent $150 and I own my scooter. You can do t.

[@gregorymccant442]

@Peter Amster thank you, brother! @ R. Peter Lucarelli thanks for the reconfirmations and sharing! I'll be there the last week of December!!!

[@giovanniriccella736]

Thank you so much for this video. Very informative and backs up everything I've researched and recognized for myself. I have a few years before I live there full time, but it just makes me excited for my next visit this August. Love all your vids!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad it was helpful!

[@StevenSacto]

Great video 👍 your style of living is the closest of the KZbinrs to mine. I always "plan" for 3000$ month. But great breakdown on the numbers. And I'm shocked on how you have to keep defending yourself. There must be a lot of idiots out there. I'd say 🖕 Keep up the great work

[@ericg9092]

GREAT video. Thank you.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad you liked it!

[@abeck0856]

Hey Chocolate man, will be in Thailand on tomorrow coming from Vietnam. On a world tour adventure from usa. Would love to connect with you over coffee or tea or beer.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Taco Tuesday. Mikes Mexican. 3pm. Alot of great folks in attendance.

[@kylemorton9767]

Thanks for your hard work

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Much appreciated for the Super Thanks! Hope this video helps out!!

[@jasoncupp1514]

Honestly for me it's more about the the lifestyle than the monthly budget. I pay much more than $3000 a month for just my rent but I'm in Phuket and things tend to be more expensive here. Great video James, very informative.

[@lineage13]

If you want to live beach front that's about right.

[@ariefraiser140]

More than $3000 a month just for rent? What are you renting?

[@innervisionjj]

Is that dollars?

[@BasedinReality1984]

$3000 a month!!!! Man’s getting ripped off !

[@chuck5553]

If you can afford that then hell yeah 🕺🏼💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽

[@filipediogo4098]

Just discovered this channel and love the energy, i subscrib now !!!

[@jaredspencer3304]

Hey James, I hope you don't mind the question, but I'm curious if there are ways that having a Thai girlfriend has saved you money. Having a partner obviously increases expenses, but I imagine that a local would be able to point you in the right direction sometimes when you might not have known what was going on.

[@wahoo57]

Great video James Very informative and realistic Thank you!

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@donmcdonald4874]

Great video and more in line with my lifestyle! Maybe a video on how to find someone to show me properties. I plan on coming for three months, Jan, Feb & March. Thinking I would rent a place for a week and then look once I’m there.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Facebook Marketplace is a great place to start. Also search for realtors in Pattaya. Many many options.