Published by Settle in Abroad – Your Relocation Experts in Thailand
If you’ve been following along in our housing series, we’ve already looked at Phuket’s island lifestyle, Bangkok’s big-city energy, and Hua Hin’s laid-back seaside charm. Now, let’s head north to Chiang Mai, a city where mountain views, rich culture, and a slower pace of life meet modern conveniences.
Housing Options in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has something for almost every budget and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a small condo in the heart of the city or a spacious house surrounded by greenery, you’ll find plenty of options.
Condos: A one-bedroom condo in the city often rents for around ฿8,000–15,000/month. In trendy areas like Nimmanhaemin, modern condos usually start closer to ฿15,000–20,000/month.
Houses: If you want more room, two or three-bedroom houses range from ฿15,000–30,000/month, depending on size and location.
Pool villas: Found in suburban or semi-rural areas, these usually cost ฿30,000–60,000/month and offer privacy, gardens, and more space.
Best Neighborhoods in Chiang Mai
Each part of Chiang Mai has its own feel, so it’s worth thinking about what lifestyle you want before deciding where to live.
Nimmanhaemin (Nimman): Trendy, walkable, and full of cafés, coworking spaces, and boutique condos. Popular with younger foreigners and digital workers.
Old City: Surrounded by historic walls and moats, this area offers charm, temples, and easy access to markets and local life.
Santitham: A quieter, budget-friendly neighborhood near Nimman, with a mix of Thai and foreign residents.
Hang Dong: Great if you want a larger house, gated communities, and more space—ideal for families.
Doi Saket: A scenic, semi-rural choice that offers peace and nature while still being a short drive into the city.
Everyday Life in Chiang Mai
Life in Chiang Mai moves at a gentler pace than in Bangkok. Many people spend weekends exploring nearby nature trails, relaxing in cafés, or checking out creative spaces like Bang Kang Wat, a well-known artists’ village.
For shopping, you’ll find a mix of local and international options:
Markets: Warorot and Muang Mai for fresh produce and street food.
Supermarkets: Rimping, Tops, and Makro for everyday groceries.
Healthcare is another strong point. Hospitals like Chiang Mai Ram and Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai offer high-quality care with English-speaking staff.
Getting around is simple:
Songthaews (red trucks), taxis, tuk tuks, and Grab are everywhere.
Many residents also rent or buy motorbikes for daily convenience.
Some central neighborhoods are very walkable, making short trips easy.
Why Foreigners Choose Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai appeals to those who want a balance between culture and comfort. It has international schools, coworking spaces, reliable healthcare, and easy travel connections—without the non-stop pace of Bangkok. Add in its mountain scenery and community feel, and it’s easy to see why so many foreigners decide to make it home.
