Living in Jomtien
The beach, at a slower pace. My honest verdict after 20 years in Pattaya.
I'd start a retired couple in Jomtien. It's quieter, there's less going on, and you're right by the sea. Day to day, it's the pace of life, the beach, dozens of restaurants to choose from, and plenty of like-minded people.
It's also where I think most of Pattaya's growth will come over the next ten years. Jomtien Second Road completely changed the area, and there's still a lot of empty land along it.
Who it suits
- Retired couples
- Beach lovers who want more space for their money
- Buyers thinking long-term
Who should look elsewhere
- Anyone who wants nightlife on the doorstep
- Pet owners, as few condos allow them
What does ฿20,000 a month get you?
A one-bed that's a bit bigger than you'd find in Wongamat or Pratumnak, usually in an older building.
My Jomtien picks
Short answers
Is Jomtien a good place to live?
Yes, especially if you're retired or want the beach. It's quieter than Central, you're right by the sea, and there are dozens of restaurants and plenty of like-minded people.
Is Jomtien good for retirees?
It's where I'd start a retired couple. There are lots of retired couples there, so it's easy to make friends. If it still feels too busy after a few years, the natural next step is East Pattaya.
Is Jomtien a good place to invest?
I think it's where most of Pattaya's growth will come over the next ten years. Jomtien Second Road changed the area, and there's still plenty of room left along it.
Read more
The Best Area to Live in Pattaya Depends on Who You Are
Central Pattaya, Pratumnak, Jomtien, Wongamat or East Pattaya? Where I'd live at each stage of life, and what ฿20,000 a month rents in 2026.
Retiring in Pattaya: Advice From 20 Years Here
Why retirees choose Pattaya, what really catches them out, and the one thing a Pattaya business owner of 20 years advises every retiree to do.
Where Pattaya Is Heading: My View of the Next 10 Years
A Pattaya business owner of 20 years on where the city is heading: steady growth, why he's sceptical of big infrastructure promises, Jomtien as the growth area, a shift to Asian visitors, and whether to invest.
Running a Restaurant and Bar in Pattaya: What I've Learned
The owner of three Hemingways restaurant and bars on how he got started, the hardest part of the job, what keeps a venue going, and his one piece of advice before you open.
Renting a Condo in Pattaya: What I Tell Every Renter
Renting a condo in Pattaya? Typical rents, contract lengths, deposits, who pays agency fees, utilities, and why the building matters more than the room.

Ask Shane
Thinking of retiring to Pattaya?
Get the next article by email
One short email a week on property, business and life in Pattaya. Free, no spam.