Of more than 440 locations worldwide, Bangkok is ranked the 172nd-most-expensive place for expatriates in the semi-annual cost of living survey conducted by ECA International, reports The Nation. Bangkok fell 23 spots to its current position; among cities in Asia Pacific, the Thai capital is ranked 38th.
The consulting firm reported, “Although items in ECA’s shopping basket have risen in price over the year, [Bangkok has] become cheaper for many expatriates.”
This is great news for expatriates looking to invest in real estate in Thailand, especially those who are looking to buy condos in Bangkok; a rapidly developing metropolis attracting new foreign businesses every year.
Late last week, the baht weakened by over 4 percent from 30.94 baht per US dollar to over 32 baht per US dollar. While some products and services, including groceries, fresh produce, drinks, tobacco, clothing and dining out, have seen price increases, the weaker baht more than helps offset these costs.ecome cheaper for many expatriates.”
Also, according to the survey, Caracas in Venezuela is currently the world’s most expensive city for expats. It surpasses Norway’s Oslo, which has dominated the number-one spot for years. In Asia, Hong Kong rose to become one of the world’s top 30 most expensive locations for international assignees, with Tokyo dropping out of the top 10 for the first time in more than a decade. However, Tokyo remains the most expensive city in Asia, ranking 11th globally, followed by Seoul and Shanghai at 16th and 18th, respectively. Singapore ranks 31st on this list.
