Pattaya vs Krabi: East vs West Coast
Compare Pattaya Gulf coast with Krabi Andaman coast. Different beach lifestyles and costs analyzed.
Quick Summary
Pattaya is approximately 5-10% cheaper than Krabi for most expats. Each city offers unique advantages - Pattaya is known for close to bangkok (90 minutes), while Krabi offers stunning limestone cliffs. Your choice depends on lifestyle preferences and budget priorities.
Cost Comparison
🏖️ Pattaya (Better Value)
🏖️ Krabi
💰 Winner: Pattaya
Pattaya offers better value for money, with living costs approximately 5-10% lower than Krabi for a similar lifestyle.
Lifestyle Comparison
🏖️ Pattaya Advantages
- • Close to Bangkok (90 minutes)
- • Affordable beach living
- • Extensive entertainment options
- • Large expat community
- • Good healthcare facilities
- • Water sports and islands nearby
- • Golf courses and sports facilities
- • Active nightlife scene
🏖️ Krabi Advantages
- • Stunning limestone cliffs
- • World-class rock climbing
- • Access to pristine islands
- • Less touristy than Phuket
- • Beautiful beaches and nature
- • Relaxed pace of life
- • Excellent seafood
- • Adventure sports hub
Monthly Budget Estimates
Budget Living
Pattaya: ฿30,000-35,000/month
Krabi: ฿30,000-35,000/month
Comfortable Living
Pattaya: ฿45,000-60,000/month
Krabi: ฿45,000-60,000/month
Luxury Living
Pattaya: ฿80,000+/month
Krabi: ฿80,000+/month
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose Pattaya If You:
- • Value close to bangkok (90 minutes)
- • Prefer extensive entertainment options
- • Want good healthcare facilities
- • Need water sports and islands nearby
- • Enjoy golf courses and sports facilities
Choose Krabi If You:
- • Value stunning limestone cliffs
- • Prefer access to pristine islands
- • Want beautiful beaches and nature
- • Need relaxed pace of life
- • Enjoy excellent seafood
Final Verdict
Both Pattaya and Krabi offer unique experiences for expats in Thailand.Pattaya comes out ahead in terms of cost-effectiveness, offering savings of 5-10%while still providing an excellent quality of life. However, Krabimay be worth the extra cost if you prioritize stunning limestone cliffs.
Consider visiting both locations before making a long-term commitment. Many expats split their time between multiple Thai cities to enjoy the best of what each has to offer throughout the year.