Is Pattaya more expensive than Chiang Mai?

Pattaya is 34.5% more expensive than Chiang Mai overall. Rent is 43.1% higher, groceries 5.8% more expensive, and restaurants 48.5% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Chiang Mai or Pattaya?

Chiang Mai has a purchasing power index of 52.2 while Pattaya has 33.2 (NYC = 100). Chiang Mai offers better purchasing power.

Chiang Mai vs Pattaya: Pattaya is 34.5% more expensive, rent 43% higher (2026)

Category	🇹🇭 Chiang Mai	🇹🇭 Pattaya	Difference
Cost of Living	19.7	26.5	+34.5%
Rent	10.2	14.6	+43.1%
Groceries	39.8	42.1	+5.8%
Restaurants	19.8	29.4	+48.5%
Purchasing Power	52.2	33.2	-36.4%

Data from October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Explore

🇹🇭 Cost of Living in Chiang Mai

Explore

🇹🇭 Cost of Living in Pattaya

Explore

🇹🇭 Should I Move to Chiang Mai?

Explore

🇹🇭 Should I Move to Pattaya?

Tax Calculators

See detailed income tax brackets and net salary calculations for Chiang Mai and Pattaya.

🇹🇭 Thailand Tax Calculator

Income tax rates, brackets & net salary

🇹🇭 Chiang Mai vs 🇹🇭 Pattaya

Add your salary for a personalized comparison