You've just landed in Bangkok, and suddenly you're staring at two very different rental options. On one side, there's a serviced apartment in Thonglor with a gym, housekeeping, and monthly rates starting at 35,000 baht. On the other, there's a condo in the same area, similar size, going for 28,000 baht but with no frills. Which one actually makes sense for you as an expat or long-term renter? This question hits differently depending on who you are, how long you're staying, and what you value most.

What's the Real Difference Between These Two?

Let's be honest. A lot of people think serviced apartments and condos are basically the same thing. They're not. The biggest difference is what's included in your monthly payment and who's managing the place.

A serviced apartment is like living in a hotel that you can call home for months or years. You get housekeeping, front desk staff, maintenance on call, utilities usually included, and often a gym or shared facilities. Think of places like Citadines near BTS Ari or Oakwood near Sukhumvit Soi 16. You're paying for convenience and service.

A condo is a property you're renting from an owner. It's managed by the building's condo management company, but that's it. No housekeeping. No food delivery partnerships. No concierge. You're renting an apartment in a residential building, plain and simple. You get security and common areas, yes, but the hands-on service layer is gone.

The Money Talk: What Your Monthly Budget Actually Looks Like

Here's where things get real. A serviced apartment in mid-range areas like Sathorn or Phrayathai typically runs 35,000 to 60,000 baht per month for a one-bedroom. That usually includes utilities, internet, housekeeping, and building amenities. You walk in, you're done.

A comparable condo in the same neighborhoods costs 25,000 to 45,000 baht per month. But here's the catch. You then need to add utilities, internet, and cleaning supplies. Electricity and water for a one-bedroom runs about 1,500 to 3,000 baht monthly, depending on how much you use the AC. Internet is another 500 to 1,500 baht. So that 30,000 baht condo becomes closer to 35,000 baht once you factor everything in.

That said, if you find a good condo deal in areas like Ladprao or Ramintra, prices drop to 15,000 to 25,000 baht for a one-bedroom. A serviced apartment in those same areas doesn't really exist. That's where condo rentals win on pure cost.

Flexibility and Commitment: How Long Are You Actually Staying?

The length of your stay changes everything about this decision. If you're coming to Bangkok for three months, a serviced apartment is your answer. Most condo owners want six-month or one-year leases. Serviced apartments offer monthly contracts without penalties. You need flexibility? That's what serviced apartments exist for.

But if you're settling in for a year or more, a condo makes much more sense financially. Yes, you'll likely need to sign a six or twelve-month contract, and there might be a deposit equal to one or two months' rent. Once you're locked in though, your rent is stable. Serviced apartments can raise rates when you renew, sometimes significantly. You're more secure in a condo if you're planning to stay.

A real example: an expat working for a multinational company based near Lumphini Park rented a serviced apartment near BTS Silom at 50,000 baht for her first three months while apartment hunting. After that, she moved to a condo near BTS Phetchaburi and locked in a 35,000 baht annual rate. By month six, her decision to move had already saved her money.

The Lifestyle Factor: What Kind of Living Actually Suits You?

Serviced apartments attract a specific kind of renter. You probably value your time highly. You don't want to think about calling a plumber or arguing with building staff about air conditioning. You want someone to clean your place, answer your phone, and handle problems. You probably work long hours or travel frequently for work. For these people, serviced apartments are worth every extra baht.

Condo living is for people who are more self-sufficient. You're comfortable calling a cleaner yourself if you want one. You don't mind dealing with the condo's front desk or handling minor maintenance issues. You're building a life in Bangkok, not just staying temporarily. You probably cook at home sometimes, have routines, and actually want to know your neighbors.

Different doesn't mean one is better. A junior executive at a firm near Thong Lor who works twelve-hour days? Serviced apartment wins. A freelancer or remote worker who's been in Bangkok for two years? Condo wins. Know yourself.

Hidden Costs and Real Obstacles

Serviced apartments seem all-inclusive, and mostly they are. But some charge deposits that aren't refunded, require thirty-day notice for cancellation, or add surprise fees for extra guests or early checkout. Read that contract carefully. Some places also pack their units with tourists, which means noise and turnover. You're not always getting the peaceful home experience.

Condos have their own gotchas. Deposits in Bangkok are usually refundable, but owners can be strict about inspections. Small damage, missing curtains, or wall marks might cost you money. Some buildings are poorly managed. You might deal with slow internet, broken elevators, or unresponsive staff. You need to view the building and talk to current tenants before signing anything.

Also, condos sometimes have condo fees on top of rent. This is usually small, maybe 1,000 to 3,000 baht monthly, but it's another line item you need to ask about upfront.

Making Your Decision

Start with how long you're staying. Three months or less? Serviced apartment, no question. Six months to a year? Could go either way depending on budget. A year or longer? A condo probably makes better financial sense unless you really value the service component.

Then think about your lifestyle. Are you someone who wants problems solved for you, or are you independent and enjoy handling your own space? Do you cook at home or eat out constantly? Will you have guests frequently? These questions matter.

Finally, look at your specific area. Some Bangkok neighborhoods have amazing condo options and weak serviced apartment availability, and vice versa. Areas near BTS Ari, BTS Phrakanong, and MRT Queen Sirikit have excellent condo markets. Areas around Sukhumvit and Sathorn have more serviced apartments competing on price.

Whatever you choose, you don't have to decide alone. Superagent.co lets you search and compare both serviced apartments and condos across Bangkok in one place, with real pricing, real photos, and direct contact with landlords and property managers. See what's actually available in your target neighborhood before committing to anything.