Bangkok Continues to Draw International Residents

Bangkok’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure remains strong, with 788,957 new work permits approved in 2024, representing a 29.86 percent year-on-year increase from 607,540 in 2023. The rise highlights the city’s continued importance as a regional hub for international business, supported by multinational firms from across Asia with offices in Bangkok and production facilities in nearby provinces and along the Eastern Economic Corridor.

Source: Foreign Workers Administration Office

The steady rise in Bangkok’s expatriate population has supported sustained demand for long-term apartment rentals, particularly in the Sukhumvit, Sathorn, and Siam districts. Relocation packages commonly include temporary accommodation in serviced apartments, most often one-bedroom units, with monthly rents typically ranging between THB 50,000 and THB 100,000. These are generally occupied for a period of three to six months while residents secure permanent housing.

Beyond business, Bangkok’s appeal lies in its position as a global playground city that combines connectivity, culture, and quality of life. The city benefits from two major international airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, offering extensive regional and global access. Its modern infrastructure includes internationally accredited hospitals, leading international schools, and an expanding network of retail and lifestyle destinations.

Bangkok’s reputation in hospitality further reinforces its global standing, with three of the World’s 50 Best Hotels located in the city: Four Seasons Bangkok (ranked #2), Capella Bangkok (#3), and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (#7). The city also continues to strengthen its culinary profile, home to two of Asia’s Top 5 Bars and four restaurants ranked among the World’s Top 25.

Looking ahead, Bangkok is expected to maintain its position as one of Asia’s most dynamic urban centers, supported by continuous infrastructure investment, strong regional business presence, and growing international lifestyle appeal. As connectivity deepens and the city’s global profile continues to rise, the trend of long-term expatriate living and high-quality urban development is set to expand in the years ahead.