Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand is one place in the world where you can still enjoy aspects of first-class living at economy-class prices.

It is possible to stretch your retirement nest egg to enjoy a better lifestyle in Southeast Asia than you could afford anywhere else in the world.

In Chiang Mai, where a retired couple could on less than US$1,300 per month, with housing prices so low, it’s no wonder so many expats have chosen to make Thailand their permanent home. Buying real estate in Thailand has several difficulties.

Of course, some retirees—particularly those intending to spend a long time in the country—may feel more comfortable buying their own property, regardless of difficulties or depreciation.

Anyone  living in Thailand  is responsible for paying taxes when  buying or selling property, but there are no annual property taxes.

All taxes and fees are paid upon the transfer of the property.

Luxury condominiums start at around US$49,500, and for around US$115,500, you could have an upscale and spacious place with a full Western-style kitchen, teak floors, installed phone lines, hot tubs, spectacular views and amenities such as swimming pools and golf courses.

Affordable Health Care 

Across Thailand, the  standard of medical care is very high  and costs are extremely reasonable. This has helped to make the country a popular destination for medical tourists, who find it much less expensive to fly to Thailand and receive treatment there, than it would be to have the same procedure done in their home country.

Over 2 billion foreigners sought medical care in Thailand in 2022. So, seeing an English-speaking doctor for a simple visit, for example, costs around US$20.

Several hospitals in the city offer an international standard of medical care. Major surgical procedures are significantly less expensive than in the U.S. and positive outcomes are high.

A heart bypass, for example, that would cost over US$100,000 in the United States will only cost around US$10,000 in Thailand.

A total hip replacement in Thailand costs around US$11,000, yet the same procedure in the States is more than US$70,000.

For instance, a simple MRI costs less than US$300, a saving of around US$700 compared to having the same procedure in the United States.