Moving to a new city with your family comes with many big decisions, one of the most important being where to live. Bangkok is a busy, diverse city with a range of neighbourhoods that offer great lifestyles for expat families. But when you’ve got young children, staying near the location of a good preschool is often at the top of the list. If you’re planning a move to Bangkok and looking for a community that supports both family life and education, here’s a helpful guide to some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Bangkok.
Nichada Thani
Nichada Thani is often called the “expat bubble” of Bangkok—and for good reason. Located in the Nonthaburi district, just north of central Bangkok, it offers a peaceful, secure and green environment that’s ideal for families. What makes it especially attractive to parents is that it’s home to the International School Bangkok (ISB), a highly respected international school that offers early childhood education right through to high school.
ISB is known for its child-centered approach, excellent facilities, and supportive community. For parents looking for a top international preschool in Thailand, ISB is an excellent choice. The early childhood programme provides a nurturing, play-based environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and social development. Because the school is located within the Nichada Thani estate, families living in the community can enjoy the convenience of walking or cycling to school.
The neighbourhood itself is designed with families in mind. There are parks, swimming pools, sports facilities, and shops all within the estate. It feels more like a peaceful suburb than part of a busy capital city, yet you’re still close enough to central Bangkok when needed. It’s no surprise that Nichada Thani is often considered the best neighborhood to stay in Bangkok for families with school-age children.
Sukhumvit
If you’d prefer to stay closer to the heart of Bangkok, Sukhumvit is a popular option for many expat families. Neighbourhoods like Phrom Phong, Thonglor, and Ekkamai offer easy access to shopping malls, restaurants, international supermarkets, and health clinics. The BTS Skytrain runs through the area, making it easy to get around the city.
Sukhumvit has a mix of modern condominiums and serviced apartments, ideal for families who want city living with a touch of convenience. There are also several international schools and preschools in the area, although spaces can fill up quickly. It’s a strong contender if you’re searching for the best neighborhood to stay in Bangkok with access to city amenities.
Ari
Ari is a lesser-known gem that has grown in popularity in recent years. With its leafy streets, cosy cafés, and community vibe, it appeals to families who want something a bit more relaxed. Ari feels more residential than Sukhumvit but is still well-connected by BTS. While it doesn’t have as many international school options as Nichada Thani or Sukhumvit, it’s a lovely neighbourhood for those who value a calmer pace of life and creative surroundings.
Sathorn
Sathorn offers a good balance between business and family life. It’s a central location with access to both the BTS and MRT, making it easy for commuting parents. Sathorn is home to international schools, embassies, and several parks, including the popular Lumpini Park, which is great for family outings.
It’s an area that caters to working parents who want to be close to the city’s commercial centres without giving up on a good family environment.
When choosing where to live in Bangkok, it’s important to think about more than just the apartment or house itself. Community, convenience, and proximity to quality education can make all the difference. For families with young children, Nichada Thani stands out as one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Bangkok, especially with ISB’s international preschool located right within the estate. The combination of world-class education and a family-friendly lifestyle makes it a top pick for many expat families starting their journey in Bangkok.
