Chicago, ILKoh Samui, Thailand
You would need around 68.3% less money in Koh Samui, Thailand to maintain the same standard of living you have in Chicago, IL.
Overall Cost of Living
Koh Samui, Thailand is cheaper than Chicago, IL
1-Bed Rent (City Center)
Groceries (Monthly)
Average Net Salary
Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Chicago, IL to Koh Samui, Thailand? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Koh Samui, Thailand is 68.3% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Koh Samui, Thailand's center costs around 844 USD, which is a staggering 64.9% less than in Chicago, IL. If you are retaining a remote income, the Remote Wealth team ranks this as a highly strategic move for wealth accumulation.
Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team
Our cost of living data for Chicago, IL and Koh Samui, Thailand is compiled using our rigorous verification methodology. We combine millions of data points from reliable sources to ensure you get the most accurate financial comparison for your relocation.
Read more about our team →Salary Comparator
Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Koh Samui, Thailand to maintain your current lifestyle in Chicago, IL.
You need in Koh Samui, Thailand
1,628 USD
Geo-Arbitrage FIRE
Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.
By moving from Chicago, IL to Koh Samui, Thailand and investing the 68% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 10.0 years earlier.
Budget Simulator
Instantly adapt your Chicago, IL budget to local Koh Samui, Thailand prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.
Investment Planner
You save 1562 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Koh Samui, Thailand.
Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~262,416 USD in 10 years.