11 Best Places to Live in Bangkok (2025)

The best places to live in Bangkok depends on your needs and preferences; after living here for 5 years, we break down the best neighborhoods for anyone moving to the city.

When we first moved to Bangkok, we were determined to find the best places to live in Bangkok. Every neighbourhood has it’s own pros and cons and here are some great places to live for expats in Bangkok.

Best Places to Live in Bangkok

1. On Nut area

This area is a little further away from the city centre but still offers the perks of living in a busy city. We visit this area often because firstly, it has a massive Lotus and Big C for food shopping but is also has some great food options.

The BTS stop makes for easy and convenient travel to the major hub areas of the city and there are a lot of affordable condos around the neighbourhood.

On Nut is one of Bangkok’s most up-and-coming areas, balancing convenience with a relaxed, local vibe. The area is packed with affordable restaurants, trendy cafés, local markets, and modern shopping options like Lotus’s and Century On Nut.

The night market near BTS On Nut offers great street food, live music, and a casual atmosphere, while nearby Habito Mall provides a more modern lifestyle hub. You’re also just a short ride from Sukhumvit’s entertainment districts, making it easy to enjoy both quiet evenings and the city’s nightlife.

Many expats and young professionals are moving here for modern condos at reasonable prices, as well as the friendly, community-driven feel. The area is perfect for those who want to live close to central Bangkok without the chaos or high rent.

One of our favorite restaurants is in On Nut tool Best Beef Sukhumvit!

2. Sathorn

Sathorn is one of Bangkok’s most sophisticated business and lifestyle districts, known for its skyscrapers, embassies, and fine dining. The area offers everything from rooftop bars with panoramic city views to elegant cafés and riverside restaurants.

Popular spots include the Sky Bar at Lebua, the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, and Lumpini Park nearby for greenery and relaxation. Sathorn also has quick access to both BTS and MRT lines, making it ideal for city explorers.

Living in Sathorn offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle in a well-connected, upscale environment. It’s ideal for professionals working in Bangkok’s financial or diplomatic sectors, as many offices and embassies are nearby.

Despite its business vibe, Sathorn has peaceful residential pockets with luxury condos and leafy side streets. It’s also close to international schools, hospitals, and top-tier amenities, making it one of the most desirable places for expats and families alike.

This area is also great for food; some of the best restaurants in Bangkok can be found in the Sathorn area and there are also good street food options too.

3. Asoke

Another Sukhumvit neighbourhood, Asoke has a lot going for it. The MRT and BTS lines cross through Asoke, giving you quick and easy access to many areas of the city.

Asoke is one of Bangkok’s main intersections of business, shopping, and nightlife. With Terminal 21 mall as its centerpiece, the area bursts with restaurants, fitness studios, and entertainment venues. Sukhumvit Soi 23 and nearby Soi Cowboy offer an energetic nightlife scene, while Benjakitti Park provides green space and walking trails. With both BTS and MRT stations intersecting here, you can reach any part of Bangkok easily.

High-rise condos dominate the skyline, offering city views and modern amenities. You’re within walking distance of shopping, dining, and international schools, making it appealing for professionals and expat families. The mix of excitement and practicality makes Asoke one of Bangkok’s most in-demand addresses.

4. Phra Khanong

This neighbourhood offers good mixture of bars and restaurants but isn’t too crowded. The apartments are cheaper in here and there are a lot of high-quality places available.

Phra Khanong has transformed from a quiet local area into one of Bangkok’s coolest, artsiest neighborhoods. The W District is a hub for foodies and creatives, featuring outdoor bars, art displays, and international cuisine.

There are plenty of hip cafés, co-working spaces, and boutique stores, making it a popular area for young professionals. It’s also close to Sukhumvit’s main attractions while maintaining its authentic Thai charm.

The area is less expensive than central Sukhumvit but still offers modern condos and easy BTS access. Residents love its laid-back atmosphere, creative energy, and growing expat presence. It’s ideal for those who want a local feel without giving up the convenience of city life.

5. Phloen Chit

Sandwiched between Sukhumvit and Siam Square, this is a prestigious area of high quality restaurants, independent coffee shops and tasty eateries.

As a best places to live in Bangkok, this is arguably one of the most elegant and well-connected neighborhoods. With luxury malls like Central Embassy and Central Chidlom nearby, high-end dining, and five-star hotels, it’s a hub for shopping and sophistication.

The BTS Phloen Chit station provides fast access to key areas like Siam and Nana, while Lumpini Park is just a short ride away for outdoor relaxation.

6. Ari

Ari is Bangkok’s trendiest neighborhood, loved for its tree-lined streets, indie cafés, and creative vibe. You’ll find stylish brunch spots, boutique stores, and night markets with live music and artisan goods. The area is also home to cultural events, food festivals, and art exhibitions. With Ari BTS nearby, it’s easy to reach downtown while enjoying a more relaxed urban atmosphere.

This neighbourhood is growing in popularity because of the various newly opened bars, restaurants and pubs. There is a younger crowd here and younger Thai professionals.

Ari offers a strong sense of community and charm, attracting young professionals, digital nomads, and families. The area has a mix of chic condos and traditional Thai houses, giving it a balanced, neighborhood feel. Its relaxed pace, cleanliness, and social vibe make it one of the most livable areas in Bangkok for those seeking both lifestyle and comfort.

7. Rama 9 / Ratchada

This area is popular for a few reasons as the best places to live in Bangkok. Firstly, the area is near the BTS and MRT lines but also, you can find a lot of restaurants, shopping malls, community hotspots and bars.

The area is packed with shopping centers like Central Rama 9 and Fortune Town, plus cinemas, gyms, and night markets. The RCA entertainment zone is nearby for nightlife and live music, while the MRT connects residents directly to Asoke, Chatuchak, and other key spots.

Living in Rama 9 or Ratchada means being part of a modern, fast-growing district with excellent infrastructure. Many new condos and office towers are springing up, making it a prime choice for professionals. Rent here is more affordable than Sukhumvit, yet the amenities are just as good.

8. Phrom Phong

This is a trendy, chic neighbourhood on Sukhumvit, with two luxury malls; Emporium and Emquartierl making it a top choice for the best places to live in Bangkok.

The side roads here are perfect for expats; lots of greenery and a mixture of independent eateries, coffee shops and bars. The area is Bangkok’s most desirable areas, combining luxury and leisure.

Phrom Phong is a dream location for expats, offering everything from luxury high-rises to family-oriented apartments. It’s walkable, safe, and full of amenities, including international schools and supermarkets. Residents love the mix of urban convenience and relaxing lifestyle — it’s the perfect middle ground between busy Asoke and trendy Thonglor.

9. Thonburi

On the West Bank of the Chao Praya River, this residential district is a great choice for expats who want to live somewhere a little more ‘Thai’. The area isn’t far from Silom but condo prices are relatively low as are food and drink costs.

The IconSiam mall adds modern luxury to the area, while long-tail boat rides and walking paths let you experience Bangkok’s old-world charm.

Living in Thonburi means enjoying space, calm, and cultural depth. It’s ideal for families or anyone seeking a more peaceful lifestyle while remaining well-connected via BTS and river ferries. Housing is generally more affordable, and you’ll find a mix of modern condos and Thai-style homes. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and progress.

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10. Victory Monument

This district is the perfect place for foodies. There are a lot of market stalls, street vendors, Thai restaurants and international cuisine options, so you will never get bored with dining choices.

The area has a BTS Skytrain to connect you with the rest of the city and there are a numerous apartments for all budgets; just check your chosen apartment has western amenities as not all complexes in the area will do.

If you are booking any Thailand tour packages, many leave from this area in Bangkok, as does the buses to nearby destinations like Ratchaburi, Pattaya and Hua Hin.

11. Bangna

This is an area which is continuing to grow in popularity. Accommodation is lower here and the Mega Bangna Mall offers western shops, restaurants and even has an IKEA.

For those that are looking for a low-rise apartment that isn’t surrounded by towering building, this is the place for you.

These are, what we think, the best neighbourhoods to live in as an expat in Bangkok. They are also ideal for long-term travellers, looking to get a taste of what it is like to live in Bangkok but still visit the sights and attractions that the city has to offer.

Best Places to live in Bangkok F.A.Q

What are the best areas to live in Bangkok for expats?
The most popular areas among expats are Sukhumvit (Asoke, Phrom Phong, Thonglor, Ekkamai), Ari, Sathorn, and Phra Khanong. These neighborhoods offer great amenities, public transport, and international communities.

Which neighborhood in Bangkok is best for families?
Phrom Phong, Bangna, and Thonburi are ideal for families because they have international schools, parks, shopping centers, and larger housing options.

Where do young professionals usually live in Bangkok?
Many young professionals live in On Nut, Phra Khanong, Asoke, Ari, and Rama 9. These areas have modern condos, nightlife, co-working spaces, and easy BTS/MRT access.

Which areas are the most affordable to live in?
On Nut, Phra Khanong, Bangna, and Victory Monument offer great value for money with lower rent prices but still have convenient transport links and amenities.

What’s the most luxurious area to live in Bangkok?
Phloen Chit, Sathorn, and Phrom Phong are considered the most luxurious areas, known for high-end condos, five-star hotels, and proximity to embassies and upscale shopping.

Which neighborhoods are best connected by BTS or MRT?
Asoke is the most convenient, with both BTS and MRT lines intersecting. Sathorn, Phrom Phong, On Nut, and Rama 9are also very well connected.

Is it possible to live in Bangkok without a car?
Yes — many residents rely on the BTS, MRT, motorbike taxis, and Grab (ride-hailing). Living near a BTS or MRT station makes daily commuting much easier.

Which areas have easy access to the airport?
Bangna, On Nut, and Phra Khanong offer quick access to Suvarnabhumi Airport, while Ari and Rama 9 are convenient for Don Mueang Airport.

Where is your favourite neighbourhood in the city? Let us know in the comments below!