✦ Compare countries
Malaysia vs Thailand
Compare cost of living, taxes, salaries and visas between Malaysia and Thailand.
| Malaysia | Thailand | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living | ||
| Cost of living index | 51 | 56 |
| Taxes | ||
| Income tax (top rate) | 30% | 35% |
| VAT / sales tax | 8% | 7% |
| Corporate tax | 24% | 20% |
| Economy & salaries | ||
| Avg net salary | $900/mo | $800/mo |
| Minimum wage | $350/mo | $300/mo |
| GDP per capita | $12,000 | $8,057 |
| Inflation (annual) | 2% | -0.1% |
| Life expectancy | 76 yr | 77 yr |
| Quality of life | ||
| LGBTQ+ acceptance | Low | Moderate |
| Digital-nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
? Frequently asked questions
Is Malaysia cheaper than Thailand?
Thailand is about 9% more expensive than Malaysia overall — its cost-of-living index is 56 versus 51 for Malaysia.
How much do you need to earn in Thailand to live like in Malaysia?
To keep the same standard of living, a $75,000 salary in Malaysia is worth about $81,404 in Thailand. Enter your own figure in the calculator above.
Which has lower taxes, Malaysia or Thailand?
Malaysia has the lower top income-tax rate — 30% versus 35% in Thailand.