Living and Working in Krabi, Thailand
Nature’s Masterpiece — A Peaceful Life Amidst Limestone Cliffs and Crystal Seas
🏛 A Brief History of Krabi
Krabi has long been inhabited — archaeological finds date back over 25,000 years, and cave paintings can still be found in Ao Luek. The modern town was officially established during the Rattanakosin period, with Krabi becoming a provincial capital in the late 19th century. Traditionally a fishing and agricultural region, it later rose to prominence thanks to its stunning coastal geography and role as a gateway to Thailand’s southern islands.
Unlike Phuket, Krabi remains low-rise, low-key, and community-driven, with a mix of Thai Muslim, Chinese, and Buddhist traditions woven into daily life.
🌟 What Makes Krabi Unique in Thailand
🏝️ Jaw-Dropping Natural Scenery
Home to the iconic limestone karsts, turquoise bays, and hundreds of islands
Base for famous destinations like Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi, and Phang Nga Bay
National parks, hot springs, caves, and waterfalls right at your doorstep
🧘 Quiet Yet Vibrant
Quieter than Phuket, but still offers all essentials: hospitals, co-working cafés, gyms, and international restaurants
A top choice for wellness travelers, remote workers, and digital creatives
Popular with expats seeking serenity, natural beauty, and strong community
🛶 More Thai, Less Touristy
Krabi Town, Ao Nang, and Klong Muang are more authentically Thai than highly commercial resort towns
Strong local identity, diverse religious harmony, and friendly hospitality
Most people speak basic English, especially in tourism zones
👩💼 Why Krabi Is Perfect for You
✅ Ideal for Remote Work & Lifestyle Entrepreneurs
Krabi is ideal for freelancers, writers, artists, and wellness entrepreneurs
Good infrastructure: fiber internet, boutique coworking (e.g., Krabi Nomad, KoHub nearby on Lanta)
BOI companies, yoga studios, and resorts often hire skilled foreigners in marketing, management, or teaching
✅ Family- and Retiree-Friendly
Low noise, low crime, and more affordable housing than Phuket
Relaxed pace of life for families with kids or retirees wanting calm with culture
Strong expat groups for Germans, French, Scandinavians, and eco-living communities
✅ Close to Everything, Yet Peaceful
Short flights to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Kuala Lumpur from Krabi International Airport
Ferries and speedboats to Phi Phi, Lanta, and Railay make weekend escapes easy
Plenty of Thai language schools, Muay Thai camps, and volunteer projects to get involved in
📸 Famous Attractions and Landmarks
Railay Beach – accessible only by boat, surrounded by vertical cliffs
Ao Nang – tourism center with cafés, night markets, beach walks
Emerald Pool & Hot Springs – natural jungle spa in Khlong Thom
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) – climb 1,200 steps to epic mountain views
Khao Phanom Bencha National Park – trekking, waterfalls, and wildlife
Than Bok Khorani National Park – mangrove kayaking, sea caves, and snorkeling
Krabi Town Night Market – mix of local cuisine, art, and handmade goods
📍 Where to live in Krabi
| Area | Best For |
|---|---|
| Ao Nang | Main expat hub, beach life, cafés, coworking spaces |
| Krabi Town | Authentic Thai life, lower costs, easy travel access |
| Klong Muang | Upscale villas, quieter beaches, remote work |
| Railay (West) | Secluded lifestyle, climbing, boutique hotels |
| Ban Ao Nam Mao | Peaceful living, long-term rentals, close to nature |
🧘 Lifestyle Snapshot
Morning yoga with ocean breeze or sunrise climb
Café hopping or writing from a hammock workspace
Beach BBQs or dinner in Ao Nang’s fusion restaurants
Weekend boat trips to hidden lagoons or coral reefs
Ready to make Krabi your home?
If you’re dreaming of a life filled with adventure, opportunity, and cultural richness, Thailand might just be the place for you. Start planning your journey with our Relocation Guide or browse the latest Job Openings in Thailand.
“Live and Work in Thailand Blog” - Posts about Southern Thailand
Sign up for the Live and Work in Thailand Newsletter
Get insights, news and the latest job offers.
Discover Thailand’s top diving spots—from Koh Tao to the Similan Islands—and explore vibrant coral reefs, whale sharks, and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for beginners and seasoned divers alike, Thailand offers unforgettable underwater adventures.