Where is it Cheaper: Prices of Products in Thailand and Russia

In recent years, more and more people are considering the possibility of living in Thailand, attracted by its beautiful nature, mild climate, and the opportunity to enjoy the azure ocean outside their window year-round. However, many face the question of how much more expensive life in the Land of a Thousand Smiles might be. Are there familiar products that we have grown accustomed to over the years, and if so, how much do they cost? How significant are the price differences between Thailand and Russia? We conducted a study comparing the prices of everyday goods at one of Thailand's popular stores, Tesco Lotus Online, and Russia's Perekrestok.

We based our comparison on a grocery basket that an average person might gather for 1-2 weeks, including a few items for children and pets, as well as stationery. The primary currency chosen for comparison was the ruble. The exchange rate is current as of late October 2024: 1 Thai baht = 2.86 rubles.

This material will be useful not only for those planning a permanent move to Thailand but also for those considering wintering or shorter trips. The popularity of Thailand among tourists from Russia continues to grow — over 1.6 million Russians visited the country in 2023 alone. For such travelers, the cost of everyday goods also plays an important role in budget planning.

Overall, the cost of everyday goods in Thailand and Russia is almost the same. Some items are more expensive in one country, such as vegetables, fruits, and hygiene products in Russia, while others, like dairy products and eggs, are more expensive in Thailand. In this selection, we intentionally chose products from the mid-price segment with similar composition and decent quality. Tesco Lotus Online and Perekrestok are also not the cheapest of available supermarkets. The collected grocery basket aims to reflect a certain percentile, allowing us to see the overall picture for comparison between the two countries.

Every year, Thailand becomes increasingly attractive for relocation, but while it was known for its affordability a decade ago, this magnificent country now attracts attention with its developed infrastructure and remarkable culture. The Kingdom's economy is rapidly on the rise, real estate is growing and providing stable profits, investors are buying up condominiums and villas, and parents dream of sending their children to British schools. Considering this and seeing the stunning landscapes of the Andaman Sea, one might genuinely be surprised at the cost of living, which remains on par with Russia.

What else is more advantageous to buy in Thailand?

• At the top of the list are, of course, fruits, many of which are simply unavailable on the shelves of domestic stores, especially in late autumn and winter. Therefore, unfortunately, they were not included in our selection. Among our personal favorites are papaya, sapodilla, and mangosteen. Often, the most practical option is to choose them at local markets or small shops, where prices can be several times lower than in large hypermarkets.
• It’s also worth looking into electronics. Prices for various types of electronics can differ by 20% due to current import challenges, the proximity of production, and tax policies. Of course, the ruble exchange rate also significantly impacts the price. We advise always being cautious when making large purchases in trusted places with quality guarantees.
• Tourists can claim a refund on the value-added tax (VAT) for purchases made in stores participating in the Tax Refund for Tourists program. To receive the VAT refund, the total amount of purchases in one store must be at least 2,000 baht.

Thailand continues to be not only a country with magnificent nature but also with quite affordable prices for everyday goods. The overall level of daily expenses is practically the same and may even be slightly lower, making life in Thailand even more appealing for those seeking a combination of comfort, exoticism, and savings.

Purchasing real estate here is becoming increasingly sought after not only among those planning to relocate permanently but also among those looking for the perfect place for a vacation or wintering. In the context of globalization and the rapid growth of the real estate market, Thailand continues to surprise its residents and guests with attractive opportunities for a comfortable life.