From San Diego to Bangkok: How This Remote Worker Cut His Rent in Half

Andrew Corona, a 30-year-old operator of a US commercial real estate private lending firm, relocated from San Diego to Bangkok in January 2025. According to Corona, the move reduced his monthly housing costs by roughly half while allowing him to maintain US business operations via a five-year Destination Thailand Visa.

Why did Andrew Corona move from San Diego to Bangkok?

Corona cited growing frustration with San Diego, specifically mentioning political divisions, drug use, and homelessness. He told Business Insider that these factors changed his view of the city, prompting him and his fiancée to seek a life overseas.

The financial incentive played a significant role. Corona now rents a two-bedroom, two-bathroom furnished condo in Thonglor—a neighborhood known as the “Beverly Hills of Bangkok”—for 80,000 Thai baht, or approximately $2,500 per month. This is roughly half of what he previously paid for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment in San Diego.

Did You Know? Andrew Corona’s move followed a trial run in early 2024, during which he and his fiancée spent three months in a Bangkok Airbnb before exploring other global cities including Dubai, Madrid, and Buenos Aires.

How does a US business operate from Thailand?

Corona manages his private lending firm by working overnight to align with American business hours. His typical day begins between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., with his professional workday starting around 7 p.m.

He told Business Insider that he prefers the nocturnal schedule because there are fewer distractions, making it easier to focus. He typically concludes his work and goes to bed between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m.

Beyond rent, Corona estimates his monthly utilities, groceries, and gym membership cost about $1,700. He allocates an additional $1,000 to $2,000 for leisure and entertainment.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that this shift represents a strategic use of geographic arbitrage. By earning in a strong currency while spending in a lower-cost economy, remote professionals can significantly increase their disposable income and redefine their standard of living without reducing their professional output.

What are the trends for foreign residents in Bangkok?

Bangkok is seeing a steady influx of international residents. Thai civil registration data for 2025 recorded 102,988 foreign residents in the city, though the actual number in the population of 5.4 million may be higher.

digital nomad vlog | working remotely while travelling 👩🏻‍💻 a few days of my life in bangkok

The Thai government has introduced several programs to attract this demographic, including the five-year Destination Thailand Visa held by Corona and his fiancée. Other expats, such as US stock trader Bill Strayer, have told Business Insider that the city’s safety and social scene are primary draws.

What may happen as more remote workers move to Asia?

The trend could accelerate as more professionals prioritize “freedom” over traditional corporate structures. Corona already influenced one friend from San Diego to relocate to Thailand, despite that friend never having visited the country previously.

As remote work becomes further normalized, more US-based business owners may consider similar relocations to lower their overhead. This shift is likely to increase the demand for long-term visa programs and upscale residential hubs like Thonglor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monthly cost of living for Andrew Corona in Bangkok?
His rent is approximately $2,500, with additional monthly expenses for utilities and groceries estimated at $1,700, plus $1,000 to $2,000 for entertainment.

What visa allows Andrew Corona to live in Thailand?
Corona and his fiancée hold the five-year Destination Thailand Visa.

How does Corona handle the time difference for his US business?
He works a reversed schedule, starting his workday at 7 p.m. and finishing between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. to match US hours.

Would you consider relocating to another country if it meant cutting your housing costs in half?