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Thailand, Vietnam or Malaysia? Where is the best place for expats to live?
From cost of living to healthcare, learn how Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia are emerging as popular destinations for long-term expats.
Thailand, Vietnam or Malaysia? Where is the best place for expats to live?
In recent years, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia have become increasingly popular with long-term expats. Deciding which country best suits your needs can be a challenge for many. Whether it's healthcare, cost of living or lifestyle itself, there are many factors to consider, as The Thaiger reports.
Thailand scores with a well-established expat infrastructure and offers reliable healthcare. Many cities have international hospitals that are accredited according to JCI standards. Imagine being in one of the most famous hospitals, such as Bumrungrad International Hospital, and knowing that medical assistance is always available at the highest level. This gives many expats a good feeling and ensures a high level of security.
Cost of living comparison
A central criterion for choosing your future place of residence is certainly the cost of living. In Vietnam, modern lifestyles can be enjoyed for around $1,000 to $1,800 a month, especially in cities like Da Nang. Street food here costs between $1.50 and $2.50, and public transportation is cheap. For comparison: In Thailand you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,500 per month, with rents and food prices in particular being higher.
Malaysia is also in the running with monthly expenses of $1,400 to $2,500. Retirees and expats looking for good value for money will find attractive options, particularly in Penang. Here is an overview of the monthly costs for a 1-room apartment in the city center:
| country | Rental costs (US$) | Additional costs (US$) |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | 450 – 750 | 80 – 150 |
| Vietnam | 300 – 570 | 50 – 100 |
| Malaysia | 400 – 700 | 60 – 120 |
Visa options and quality of life
Another crucial aspect when choosing where to live is the visa options. Thailand impresses with the “Destination Thailand Visa” for up to five years, while Malaysia offers its “Malaysia My Second Home” program, which, however, requires high deposits. Vietnam, on the other hand, does not offer any special visas for retirees or digital nomads, which could be a hurdle for many interested parties. These differences can be crucial for many decision-making processes.
When it comes to security and quality of life, all three countries are doing well. While Thailand boasts a welcoming atmosphere and social community, Vietnam attracts younger expats and entrepreneurs with its energetic environment. Malaysia, on the other hand, impresses with order and predictability - qualities that are particularly valuable for families.
Ultimately, the choice of country depends largely on personal priorities. Whether you value the cost of living, functioning healthcare or a diverse lifestyle, one thing is certain: every country has its own advantages and facets to offer.