Teach English in Thailand: Financial Snapshot

ESL teachers travelling to Thailand can expect to earn between 15,000 – 40,000 Baht per month and enjoy a low cost of living. Meeting monthly living expenses, occasional dining out and in-country vacationing are all possible with a responsible approach to budgeting.

Expected Apartment Costs
Banking
Food Costs

Expected Apartment Costs

As in most countries around the world, the cost of living varies significantly between large and small city centres. For example, expected costs for a bachelor apartment in Bangkok could run between 3,000 - 10,000 Baht monthly and lower in smaller city centres. Utilities run between 1,000 - 3,000 Baht depending upon how often the air conditioner is used.

Banking in Thailand

ESL teachers should know that ATMs are the best way to exchange or withdraw money while in Thailand. They are readily accessible. Taking traveller’s cheques are not advised as they would not necessarily be accepted at local restaurants and shops.

To open a bank account in Thailand, one must have a working visa. A 100 Baht deposit is typically required and an ATM card costs approximately 150 Baht. Overseas bank accounts can be accessed from inside Thailand provided that the Debit or Credit Card has a Cirrus or Plus logo on its back.

In the event that an exchange of currency is needed, it will be important to remember that bills must be virtually perfect (not crumpled or torn).

Food Costs

The following table provides ESL teachers with examples of the cost of food in Thailand.

• Restaurant meal – 60 - 100 Baht in a relatively nice restaurant
• Apartment meal – 20 - 40 Baht per portion (Often available at or near apartments)
• Soft Drink - 10 - 15 Baht for a can; up to 50 Baht a glass or more in an expensive bar or restaurant.
• Big Mac – approximately 55 - 65 Baht
• Pizza Hut –  approximately 250 Baht for large pizza

Other East Asia / Southeast Asia Countries: