When considering living and moving to South East Asia, the comparison between Thailand and the Philippines is a common topic. Recent events have impacted the expat experience in both countries, making it important to evaluate your options carefully. This guide focuses on three key categories for travelers. However, the ultimate decision on the best country for long-term living is highly subjective and influenced by the lifestyle that suits you best. How a country makes you feel and your personal preferences are essential factors to consider when choosing between Thailand and the Philippines.
Moving to a better place: Thailand vs Philippines
Geography
Thailand boasts an axe-like shape and features mountains in the North and stunning beaches in the South. It's famous for vibrant cities like Bangkok and tropical getaways like Phuket and Samui.
The Philippines, in contrast, is an archipelago comprising over 7,500 islands of various sizes and shapes. It's known for its diverse natural attractions, including volcanoes and iconic rice terraces.
Climate
Thailand experiences three distinct seasons. November to February is cooler and drier, while March to May brings the hottest temperatures. The rainy season typically occurs from June to October. Temperatures can vary significantly between the northern and southern regions, with Northern Thailand occasionally dropping to 10 degrees Celsius or lower, while the South can reach highs of 35 degrees Celsius or more.
The Philippines has a tropical and maritime climate with high temperatures and humidity. It has a rainy season from June to November and a dry season from December to May. The country maintains an average annual temperature of 26.6 degrees Celsius, with a seasonal temperature variation of around 3 degrees Celsius.
Cost of living Philippines vs Thailand
Living as an expat in South East Asia offers the wonderful advantage of a lower cost of living compared to the western world. Both Thailand and the Philippines provide options for budget-friendly and more premium living arrangements.
In Thailand, the northern regions, such as Chiang Mai, offer more affordable living compared to the islands and the capital. Chiang Mai, in particular, provides a city atmosphere at a lower cost.
In the Philippines, smaller cities like Iloilo City and Davao City offer budget-friendly living options, while more famous islands tend to have premium prices.
On average, expats tend to find Thailand cheaper than the Philippines, making it one of the key advantages of living in Thailand. However, it's worth noting that living on a budget is possible in the Philippines as well. The ultimate choice depends on your specific financial considerations and lifestyle preferences.
Thailand vs Philippines for women
When comparing women's experiences in Thailand and the Philippines, it's crucial to recognize that both countries have diverse populations, and individual experiences vary widely. Women in both nations participate in the workforce and can be found in various roles and industries. The status of women, their rights, and their opportunities can differ depending on multiple factors, including location, education, and economic conditions. Safety and well-being also vary by region. Ultimately, women's experiences in both Thailand and the Philippines are influenced by their individual circumstances, making it essential to approach this topic with sensitivity and respect for local cultures and customs.
Real estate Thailand vs Philippines
Rent per Month:
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre:
Philippines: ₱18,271.53 (11,669.45 ฿)
Thailand: ₱22,487.09 (14,361.79 ฿)
Difference: +23.1%
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre:
Philippines: ₱9,923.17 (6,337.62 ฿)
Thailand: ₱13,542.70 (8,649.29 ฿)
Difference: +36.5%
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre:
Philippines: ₱39,101.21 (24,972.70 ฿)
Thailand: ₱59,604.22 (38,067.33 ฿)
Difference: +52.4%
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre:
Philippines: ₱21,260.36 (13,578.32 ฿)
Thailand: ₱35,078.27 (22,403.38 ฿)
Difference: +65.0%
Buy Apartment Price:
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre:
Philippines: ₱139,058.27 (88,812.12 ฿)
Thailand: ₱213,074.34 (136,083.84 ฿)
Difference: +53.2%
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre:
Philippines: ₱72,843.03 (46,522.54 ฿)
Thailand: ₱109,689.10 (70,054.96 ฿)
Difference: +50.6%
Salaries and Financing:
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax):
Philippines: ₱19,181.61 (12,250.69 ฿)
Thailand: ₱30,755.86 (19,642.79 ฿)
Difference: +60.3%
Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate:
Philippines: 7.37%
Thailand: 5.29%
Difference: -28.2%
These figures indicate that Thailand generally has higher rental and real estate prices compared to the Philippines, especially in city centers. However, the average monthly net salary in Thailand is also higher, which might influence one's ability to afford housing. Additionally, Thailand offers a lower mortgage interest rate, which could be advantageous for those considering property ownership.
Thailand vs Philippines on Reddit
Kim from Bangkok says: "While Thailand and the Philippines may share some similarities, they are distinct countries with unique characteristics. Here are a few points highlighting both their commonalities and differences:
Similarities:
Both countries have hot weather.
They have semi-stable governments.
They feature bustling cities as well as rural areas with small villages.
They are blessed with beautiful beaches and lush forests.
Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transportation in both.
Differences:
Historical factors such as colonization have significantly influenced their social culture and religious practices, leading to distinct cultural identities.
Geography plays a crucial role, with Thailand being part of the main continent with around 1,400 islands, while the Philippines consists of approximately 7,400 islands, leading to variations in governance, natural biodiversity, habitats, and climate, including differences in natural disasters.
Comparing Thailand to Cambodia, Laos, or Vietnam and the Philippines to Indonesia can be a starting point for understanding, but it's important to acknowledge the vast socio-economic, political, cultural, and natural differences that make each country unique."