Expats living in Thailand are among the happiest in the world, according to a recent report from Internations (Expat Insider), a global community for individuals living and working abroad. In the 2023 rankings, Thailand secured the 6th spot among the top ten destinations for expatriates. 

 

The top 10 destinations for expats to live and work abroad in 2023 are as follows: 

1. Mexico 

2. Spain 

3. Panama 

4. Malaysia 

5. Taiwan 

6. Thailand 

7. Costa Rica 

8. Philippines 

9. Bahrain 

10. Portugal 

 

Many of these top-ranking destinations excel in categories such as friendliness, ease of settling in, fun, and work-life balance. However, they tend to offer more moderate opportunities for career advancement. 

 

The "Expat Insider" report evaluated 53 destinations based on five key indices: quality of life, ease of settling in, working abroad, personal finance, and an "expat essentials" index encompassing housing, administration, language, and digital life. 

 

 

Expats living in Thailand rated it highly for its ease of settling in, the friendliness of locals, and the ability to build a sense of community. 

 

One of the standout features of life for expats in Thailand is affordability. Thailand secured the 4th position in the Personal Finance Index, thanks to easily available and affordable housing. Nearly 76% of expats rated the general cost of living positively. A striking 86% of expats mentioned that their disposable household income is sufficient for a comfortable life in Thailand, compared to 73% globally. 

 

Thailand also impressed in terms of leisure options, ranking 7th in this category. Expats appreciated the culinary variety and dining options, with 89% rating it positively. The culture and nightlife in Thailand also received high marks, with 78% expressing satisfaction in this regard. However, recreational sports opportunities were found lacking. 

 

Despite these strengths, there are areas of concern. Thailand ranked lower in areas such as the environment and climate, safety and security, and the working abroad index. Expats expressed dissatisfaction with the air quality and government policies related to the environment. Safety and security concerns were raised, with some expats worried about political stability and freedom of expression. 

 

On a positive note, expats appreciated the friendliness of the local population and their social life in Thailand. A majority of expats felt at home and satisfied with their social life in the country. 

 

In the working abroad index, while expats were content with work-life balance, they expressed dissatisfaction with Thailand's business culture, which they felt did not encourage creativity or independent thinking. Career prospects were also seen as less promising compared to other destinations. 

 

Overall, Thailand's ranking as the 6th best place for expats in 2023 highlights its many strengths, particularly in terms of affordability, social life, and ease of settling in. However, there is room for improvement in areas like environmental sustainability, political stability, and career opportunities.