Bangkok is home to over 11 million people, and over 20 million people have visited Bangkok alone in 2023. This means Bangkok is a very busy city, and finding the right apartment can be a little bit challenging and expensive due to the high demand leaving tourists and locals frustrated. The good news is that you can find great apartments for rent in Bangkok even if you're on a tight budget. If you want to keep your monthly rent to something reasonable, here are some tips and recommendations to help you find the perfect place.
Start Your Search in the Right Areas
Bangkok is a large city with many different neighborhoods, and where you look will determine the price of the apartment. Popular areas like Sukhumvit and Silom can be expensive, but many affordable options are outside these zones.
Consider looking in areas like Ladprao, Bang Na, or On Nut, which are a bit further from the city center but still have great public transport links. These neighborhoods offer plenty of apartments for rent at a lower price while still giving you access to the rest of the city via BTS Skytrain or MRT. It is also important to set a budget to make sure the apartments are within your price range.
Consider Shared Living
If you're open to it, consider sharing an apartment with roommates which can reduce your rent and utility costs. Look for listings that specifically mention shared living arrangements, or find a group of friends to rent a larger place together.
Use Online Platforms
One of the best ways to find affordable Bangkok apartments for rent is through online platforms. Websites like DDproperty, PropertyScout, and RentHub have plenty of listings, allowing you to filter by location, price, and apartment size. This makes it easy to compare different apartments and find one that fits your budget. Additionally, consider joining Facebook groups focused on Bangkok housing.
Network and Ask Locals
Word of mouth can be a great resource in finding an affordable apartment. Talk to friends, colleagues, or acquaintances who live in Bangkok and ask if they know of any available places. Some landlords prefer renting to someone recommended by a trusted source.
Visit Apartments in Person
Once you have a list of potential apartments, it's necessary to visit them in person. Photos online can sometimes be misleading, and seeing the apartment firsthand will help you assess its condition, the neighborhood, and nearby amenities. Visiting also gives you a chance to meet the landlord and ask any questions you might have.
Negotiate the Rent
In Bangkok, it's common to negotiate the rent, especially if you're willing to sign a longer lease. Don't hesitate to ask the landlord for a discount or to include utilities like water and electricity in the rental price.
Wrapping Up Your Apartment Hunt
Finding an affordable apartment for rent in Bangkok may take some time and effort because of the city's population, but it is definitely possible with the right approach. A visit to apartment listing websites like PropertyScout can get you started.
