Report Housing and Utilities Lead Thai Household Spending in May

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In May, Thai households' spending was dominated by costs associated with housing and utilities, as reported by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The average household expenditure amounted to 21,037 baht, with rent, electricity, and cooking gas forming the largest portion of expenses.

 

TPSO Director Poonpong Naiyanapakorn noted that these expenditures occurred amidst a slight increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which rose to 100.40 in May from 100.14 in April. Household spending was categorised into non-food and non-alcoholic beverage expenses, and food-related expenses.

 

A significant 60.45% of total spending was on non-food items. Of this, 24.56%, equating to around 5,167 baht, was allocated to housing costs including rent, electricity, gas, and household appliances. Transportation, fuel, and mobile phone bills followed closely behind, representing 22.16% (4,661 baht) of expenses. Other noteworthy expenditures included healthcare (6.36%, 1,335 baht), education (4.04%, 849 baht), and clothing (2.09%, 440 baht). Spending on cigarettes and alcohol was relatively low at 1.24% (216 baht).

 

Food and non-alcoholic beverages accounted for 39.55% of household spending. Within this category, ready-to-eat meals such as rice-and-curry dishes and fast food were significant at 3,508 baht. Meat, including pork, chicken, and fish, comprised 7.45% (1,568 baht) of the food budget, followed by vegetables at 4.80% (1,009 baht), and staples like rice, flour, and bread at 3.46% (728 baht). Non-alcoholic drinks made up 3.37% (708 baht), dairy products 1.74% (365 baht), seasonings 1.21% (255 baht), and sugary items 0.86% (180 baht).

 

These figures highlight the ongoing financial pressures Thai households face, with housing and utilities leading expenditures, alongside essential food-related costs.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-06-09