Rent is one of the major expenses for foreigners living in Thailand. Because of the easy access to public transportation and western-like markets and shops, most foreigners end up living in large cities, where rents are usually between 15,000 to 40,000 baht (about $450 to $1100), depending on the type of amenities you expect. The higher range will give you access to a pool, gym, tennis and probably 24/7 security. This does not include the cost of utilities, such as electricity (about 4,000 baht a month in summer, when the air conditioner is running) and phone (300 baht is the minimum to keep the line running).
As long as you are buying local produce (rather than imported products) and you mostly cook at home, food should not be a major expense. Basic things like milk (35 baht for a liter) and bread (30 baht) are very affordable, as are other basic staples of the western diet, including meats and fruits and vegetables. Restaurant prices vary from the simple, inexpensive side road cafes (where meals are between 20 and 40 baht. Western-like places (including fast food) and top-of-the-line restaurants would cost you about 300-500 baht.
Large cities such as Bangkok have an excellent transportation network that reaches to almost every corner. Those taking the bus every day should not spend more than 3,000 baht per month. It's also common for foreigners to buy motorcycles (about 20 000 baht), which are the most common methods of transportation in Thailand.
Eating out, buying drinks and in general spending money on weekend entertainment is quite cheap in Thailand. Ticket prices to theaters, movies and other venues vary according not only to the location but also to the seat number. The most expensive ones reach about 130 baht. Cable TV will run about 600 baht for basic connection and up to 1,000 baht for extra channels or if you live in specific areas.
Shopping in Thailand is usually cheaper than shopping in Europe and in the US, especially when it comes to clothes, toiletries and even medicine. Pants, shirts and dresses can be bought for as little as 150 baht. Personal products, cleaning supplies and cosmetics are all unde 100 baht, especially if you stick to local brands, although some famous imported ones, such as Colgate, are also widely available and cheap.
