Economy
Rangsit University Reports Sevenfold Increase in Thai Household Living Costs
A new study from Rangsit University indicates that Thai household living costs have surged sevenfold compared to the first quarter of 2026, largely driven by rising fuel prices.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, Ath Pisanwanich, a lecturer at Rangsit University’s Faculty of Economics, has released the Household Cost of Living Index (CLI) for the third quarter of 2026. The data reveals a significant financial strain on Thai households, with costs increasing sevenfold compared to the first quarter of the year.
In the first quarter, the average additional cost burden was 1,183.6 baht per household, which rose to 8,362.4 baht by the second quarter. The study attributes nearly 50% of this increase to rising transportation and fuel costs, followed by food and beverages at 23.9%, and housing expenses. The CLI for the entire country was recorded at 110.8 in the third quarter, with projections suggesting a slight rise to 111.9 in the fourth quarter. Bangkok and its surrounding metropolitan areas are currently experiencing the highest cost-of-living index in the nation.
For residents and travelers, this trend suggests a period of heightened inflation affecting daily expenses, particularly for commuting and dining. While the data provides a clear picture of the current economic pressure, it remains to be seen how government policy or further fluctuations in global oil prices will impact these figures in the final quarter of 2026.
