The 30% rule
A common guideline: rent should not exceed 30% of your monthly income. Students on an allowance should budget from the full monthly amount and keep at least half for living costs.
Hidden costs people forget
- Dorm electricity is pricier than home rates (7–10 THB/unit)
- Internet, common fees, parking
- Laundry
- Deposit plus 1–2 months advance up front
Compare rooms by the real monthly total, not just the rent figure.
