Thailand ranked 3rd globally for digital nomads and 4th for retirees

Thailand has been ranked as a top global destination for both digital nomads and retirees according to the Rumavi Global Relocation Index 2026. The index, which evaluated 192 countries and territories, placed Thailand 3rd globally for digital nomads with a score of 75.4 and 4th globally for retirees with a score of 74.3.

In the ASEAN region, Thailand ranks 2nd in both categories. The country’s high rankings are attributed to its affordable cost of living (96.9 points), banking and currency systems (91.8 points), digital infrastructure (89.4 points), and the quality and cost-effectiveness of healthcare services (78 points each).

Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Government Spokesperson, stated that the government views these rankings as a significant economic opportunity. The administration aims to shift focus from merely increasing tourist numbers to increasing the length of stay and spending per person. By attracting high-potential individuals to live and work in Thailand long-term, the government hopes to drive continuous economic circulation across sectors such as housing, food, travel, and healthcare.