Every time I see op post about the cost, I agree with him contrary to most Thailand bootlickers here.
I have tasted the west and it is indeed cheaper. The most important thing is to own the property, or like the op find a subsidized housing and your quality of life will be much better. The usual whiners and complainers who claim the west is more expensive usually shut up after their first GoFundMe doesn't go as planned.
Consider this: Even on platforms like AseanNow, Sheryl is readily available to address a wide range of inquiries, simply because poors here can't afford to visit a doctor.