Is Bangkok an expensive city for expats?

No, Bangkok is not an expensive city for expats, especially compared to Western cities. While it's about 12% above the Thai national average, you can live a very comfortable expat lifestyle on $1,500-$2,000 per month, excluding luxury expenses. Rent is a major factor. A nice 1-bedroom apartment in a central area like Sukhumvit can be found for $500-$800. If you’re okay with slightly less central locations, you can cut that to $300-$400. Utilities, including air conditioning, typically run $50-$100 monthly. Food is incredibly cheap and delicious. Street food meals are $1-$3, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant costs $10-$20. Transportation is also affordable; a BTS Skytrain ride is usually less than $2, and a Grab taxi across the city is often under $5. Income tax rates in Thailand are progressive, starting at 0% and reaching 35% for incomes over $135,000 annually. Overall, Bangkok offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost you'd find in places like London or New York. Focus on local experiences and you'll stretch your budget further.