👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Moving to Thailand with Kids: What You Need to Know About Schools, Health & Housing

Selim Shlomi Benbasat
Jul 11
3 min read

Updated: Jul 15

🕒 Average read time: 5–6 minutes

So, you’ve fallen for Thailand — the beaches, the vibe, the freedom — and now you’re wondering: Can I actually raise my family here?

Short answer: Yes.

Longer answer: It depends on how prepared you are.

Relocating with kids isn’t just swapping playgrounds for palm trees — it’s about building a new version of life that actually works.. It’s about building a new version of life that works — emotionally, practically, and financially — for everyone in your crew. Here’s what to expect and how to do it right.

🏫 Schools: The Big One

Let’s be honest — for families, this is usually the dealbreaker or dealmaker.

🔍 School Options in Thailand:

International Schools (British, American, IB, etc.)
- 📍 Available in major cities (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Phuket)
- 💸 Fees: THB 250,000–800,000+ per year, depending on age and school
- ✅ Ideal for continuity, global curriculum, native-level English

Bilingual/Private Thai Schools
- 💸 Lower cost (THB 80,000–250,000/year)
- ✅ Good balance between local culture and international standards
Local Thai Schools
- 🗣️ Mostly in Thai, very low cost
- ✅ Not for everyone, but an option for full immersion families

✳️ Visas & Paperwork:

Kids enrolled in school qualify for an ED Visa
One parent can often apply for a Guardian Visa (Non-O)
These are renewable and relatively easy if the school is accredited

🏡 Housing: Where You Live Shapes How You Live

Choosing the right home in Thailand is more than finding a roof — it’s about picking the right lifestyle cluster.

Popular Family-Friendly Spots:

Hua Hin – Walkable, calm, growing expat family scene, good international schools
Bangkok (Sukhumvit, Bang Na, Nichada Thani) – More school choices, urban life
Pattaya – More vibrant and urban, several international schools, active expat family community in nearby Jomtien
Chiang Mai – Slower pace, lower cost, strong wellness community
Phuket – Beach life + international options, but traffic can be intense
Koh Samui – Laid-back island lifestyle, family-friendly villas, a few solid international schools
Koh Phangan – Quiet nature escape, alternative education options, small but growing family expat crowd
Krabi – Scenic and relaxed, fewer school options, better for early childhood or homeschooling

🏠 Rental Price Range:

3BR Family Villa with pool: THB 35,000–120,000/month (location matters!)
Modern Condo near BTS: THB 25,000–60,000/month
Townhouse or gated community homes: THB 30,000–80,000/month

🏥 Health: It’s Better Than You Think

Thailand’s private healthcare system is fast, affordable, and highly rated.

📋 What You Need:

Private Health Insurance is a must — for peace of mind and visa support
- Family premiums range: THB 25,000–120,000/year (based on age, coverage)
Hospitals to Know:
- Bangkok Hospital, Bumrungrad, Samitivej, Bangkok Dusit Medical (BDMS Group)
- Many international schools have affiliations with pediatric clinics

🧃 Everyday Life With Kids

🍽️ Food:

Western groceries are widely available in big cities (Villa Market, Tops, Makro)
Organic and gluten-free options exist — just pricier
Great local markets = fruit, veg, snacks for cheap

🎢 Activities:

Language classes, martial arts, football clubs, art schools
Beaches, jungle treks, trampoline parks, Muay Thai gyms, aquariums
Many cities have thriving expat parenting groups — with meetups, WhatsApp chats, and playdates for every age range.

🫂 Communities:

In each location you will find very active local expat communities mainly in Facebook and WhatsApp
Wherever you land, you’ll find others just like you — figuring it out, supporting each other, and building a new rhythm of life.

💬 Our Take

Moving abroad with kids is bold — and it’s absolutely doable here.

If you prioritize safety, education, healthcare, and community — Thailand checks all the boxes. It’s not a vacation anymore — it’s life. And for many families we’ve helped, it’s been the best decision they’ve ever made.

At SHIFFTT, we’ve guided dozens of families through this journey — helping you find the right school, neighborhood, home, and lifestyle setup that works for your whole crew. 💬 Ready to Find Out What Your Life Could Look Like?