Thailand is unique in that it has a modern infrastructure with consistent power, and fast fiber internet and it is also very affordable. Bangkok is Thailand’s New York so it’s going to be more expensive but it’s still very affordable when compared to the US or Europe.
As always your main cost will be housing. The closer you are into the center of cities the more expensive housing will be so costs will vary but one bedroom apartment 35 minutes from the center of the city can be found starting at $200 US a month. A nice two bedroom house the same distance can be found for $600. If you are bringing pets a house will be your only option.
This site has a tool where you can compare the cost of living in different countries and locations
The best way to find a place to stay is to search for and join Facebook groups that involve “Chiang Mai, and “rentals”, “houses”, “for rent” or other appropriate terms. It is very hard to find a place that takes pets and it’s almost impossible to find an apartment so you’ll need to rent a house. Smoking is also not allowed in almost all apartments and houses.
Getting around the city is inexpensive with a 22 minute car service costing around $3.50 US. Thailand loves to eat and there are lots and lots of restaurants and delivery services. If you eat local Thai food from normal areas you can find a good sit down meal for $2 or $2.50. If you want to eat western food in restaurants and shopping at the western groceries stores the cost will easily be triple.
If you are eating in the tourist areas or eating American/English/EU food you will be paying double or triple that.
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