Spending one month in Pattaya gave me a clear understanding of how short-term rentals actually work there. Before arriving, I assumed finding a one-month rental would be simple. In reality, most listings are structured for 6-month or 12-month contracts. Monthly rentals exist, but you need to search carefully and understand how pricing works.
In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how I found my apartment, what I paid, how utilities were handled, and what you should pay attention to if you’re planning to rent in Pattaya for one month.
Where I Found Rental Listings in Pattaya
I did not use Airbnb or Booking for this stay. Instead, I searched directly through Facebook Marketplace and Pattaya-based Facebook groups.
This is how the rental market in Pattaya largely operates:
- Many condo owners advertise directly in Facebook groups.
- Agents post listings in both English and Thai.
- Prices are often negotiable.
- Monthly rates are sometimes not clearly stated.
When browsing listings, I noticed something important: many advertisements display a low price, but that price usually applies only to a 12-month contract. If you want to rent for one month, the price can be significantly higher.
For example:
- A condo listed at 9,000 THB per month for a 12-month contract
- The same condo could be 13,000–15,000 THB for a one-month stay
So the first lesson is simple: read the description carefully and confirm the duration before assuming the price applies to short-term rental.
Short-Term vs Long-Term Rental Pricing in Pattaya
The price gap between long-term and short-term rentals is real and substantial.
Why?
Because:
- Owners prefer stable 6–12 month tenants.
- Monthly rentals involve more turnover.
- Cleaning and admin costs are higher for short stays.
In my case, I was specifically looking for a one-month contract. That automatically reduced the number of available options.
If you plan to stay:
- 6 months or longer → you will get significantly better pricing.
- 1 month only → expect to pay a premium.
This is standard in Pattaya’s condo market.
Why I Chose a Condo with Gym and Pool
For my stay, I wanted:
- A modern condo
- A swimming pool
- A gym
- A secure building
After comparing several options, I found a unit at:
Riviera Monaco (Pattaya)
Some photos of the apartment I rented:
Riviera Monaco is a modern condominium complex located in the Na Jomtien area. It offers:
- Large swimming pools
- A fully equipped gym
- 24-hour security
- Keycard access
- Modern design units
- Sea views from many apartments
For me, having a gym and pool inside the building was important. If you plan to stay one month or longer, amenities start to matter more.
My Rental Price and Contract Details
I agreed on a price of:
13,000 Thai Baht for one month
Important:
This price did NOT include utilities.
The contract was simple. Most short-term condo rentals in Pattaya operate with:
- 1 month rent paid upfront
- 1 month security deposit
- Utilities paid separately
- Electricity billed at condo rate (sometimes slightly higher than government rate)
Before signing, I made sure to clarify:
- Electricity cost per unit
- Water billing method
- Cleaning expectations
- Deposit return process
Always ask these questions in advance.
Utilities and Additional Costs
At checkout, I paid approximately:
2,000 THB for utilities and related charges
This included:
- Electricity
- Water
- Electricity meter opening/closing fee
- Minor administrative charges
Electricity costs depend heavily on:
- Air conditioning usage
- Hot water heater usage
- Time spent inside the apartment
In Pattaya’s climate, air conditioning runs frequently. If you use it daily, electricity can increase quickly.
Here’s a realistic breakdown for one month:
- Electricity: 1,200–1,800 THB
- Water: 100–300 THB
- Admin or meter fees: 200–500 THB
Always confirm the rate per kWh before moving in.
The Security Deposit
Most owners require:
- 1 month security deposit
In my case, the deposit was equal to one month’s rent.
When leaving:
- The owner checked the room.
- Utility costs were deducted.
- The remaining deposit was returned.
Make sure to:
- Take photos at check-in.
- Document any existing damage.
- Confirm refund timeline.
Why Facebook Is the Most Practical Option
Many foreigners look for rental agencies first. While agencies are helpful, Facebook groups often give access to direct owner listings, which can be cheaper.
However, be careful:
- Some listings are outdated.
- Some prices are misleading.
- Some agents repost the same unit multiple times.
I recommend:
- Messaging multiple listings.
- Asking clearly for 1-month pricing.
- Confirming if utilities are included.
- Visiting the unit in person before paying if possible.
Never send money before verifying the property.
Location Considerations: Central Pattaya vs Jomtien vs Na Jomtien
Riviera Monaco is located in Na Jomtien, which is quieter compared to Central Pattaya.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Central Pattaya
- More nightlife
- Closer to malls
- Higher traffic
- Smaller condos
Jomtien
- Balanced location
- Beach access
- Many condo options
Na Jomtien
- Quieter
- More residential
- Newer buildings
- Requires transportation
Your choice depends on your lifestyle.
If you plan to:
- Party frequently → Central Pattaya
- Relax and work remotely → Jomtien or Na Jomtien
- Stay long-term → Jomtien offers good value
Is 13,000 THB a Good Price?
For a one-month stay in a modern condo with pool and gym, 13,000 THB is reasonable.
Long-term tenants may pay:
- 9,000–11,000 THB for the same unit
But for short-term rental, I found the price acceptable.
For comparison:
- Airbnb for similar condos: 18,000–25,000 THB per month
- Hotels: significantly more expensive for 30 nights
So renting directly through Facebook saved money.
Pros of Renting a Condo in Pattaya
- Access to gym and pool
- Privacy
- Kitchen availability
- Lower cost than hotels
- Flexible lifestyle
If you stay longer than two weeks, condo rental makes more financial sense than hotels.
Cons and Things to Watch Out For
- Utility costs can add up.
- Some buildings charge higher electricity rates.
- One-month rentals are priced higher than long-term.
- Deposit refund depends on owner reliability.
- Some listings are misleading.
Always verify everything in writing via chat.
Would I Rent in Pattaya Again?
Yes — but I would:
- Compare more buildings first
- Negotiate slightly harder
- Confirm electricity rate upfront
- Ask if Wi-Fi is included
Overall, the process was straightforward once I understood the pricing structure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can you rent an apartment in Pattaya for only one month?
Yes, but prices are higher than 6 or 12-month contracts. Many listings initially show long-term prices.
2. Is Facebook safe for finding rentals in Pattaya?
It is commonly used, but you should verify the property in person before paying.
3. How much does electricity cost in Pattaya condos?
It depends on usage, but for one month expect around 1,200–1,800 THB if using air conditioning regularly.
4. Do condos in Pattaya include gym and pool access?
Most modern condos do, but confirm access rules before renting.
5. Is Pattaya affordable for monthly living?
Yes. Compared to many Western countries, rent and utilities are relatively low, especially for modern condos.
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