How to Decide Where to Live in Bangkok Thailand

It’s no secret that Bangkok is a beautiful, vibrant city. From the heaving nightlife of Sukhumvit to the cultural wonders of the historic Old City, the Thai capital truly provides something for everyone. 

However, given the size of Bangkok and the diversity of its neighbourhoods, deciding where to live as an expat can be a little challenging – particularly if you’re planning on relocating with your family.

With this in mind, it’s important to take the time to do your research and find the neighbourhood that best meets your needs as a family. Here are three essential factors to keep in mind when choosing where to live in Bangkok.

1. Daily Commutes and Access to Public Transport

Transportation is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when deciding where to live in Bangkok. Heavy traffic can make commutes difficult, so many expats choose to live in close proximity to their work offices and their children’s schools. 

The city is also blessed with a wide range of public transport options, so you may want to consider areas near a transport hub. For example, the BTS Skytrain services Silom and Sukhumvit and Siam Square areas, while the Bangkok MRT connects dozens of terminal stations throughout Bangkok, covering Hua Lamphong in the south to Khlong Bang Phai in the northwest.

2. Proximity to Good Schools

If you’re moving to Bangkok with children, it goes without saying that finding a good school will be high on your list of priorities. There are a number of excellent schools and kindergartens in Bangkok, many of which adhere to Western standards of education and boast high quality facilities. 

Some schools are located in fairly remote suburbs, which may require a lengthy daily commute, so be sure to do your research and find out where prospective schools and kindergartens are located before enrolling. 

3. Apartments vs Houses

Another factor that will dictate your choice of neighbourhood is the type of dwelling you wish to live in. Many expats who move to Bangkok with their families opt to live in freestanding Western-style homes, which are typically found in the city’s more suburban residential areas, such as Phra Khanong, On Nut, Ekkamai and Ratchada. These areas are generally more geared toward families, and are home to many restaurants, shopping outlets and green spaces that offer a lovely respite from the urban sprawl. 

On the other hand, if you want to be immersed in the heart of the city, you’ll find an abundance of well-appointed apartments and condos in Bangkok’s downtown areas. These dwellings may not be as spacious as a stand-alone house, but what they lack in space they usually make up for in convenience, location and premium facilities. 

Living in Bangkok

As you can see, there are many things to take into consideration when choosing where to live in Bangkok. Transportation, school location and the type of home you wish to live in should ultimately form the basis of your decision.