Urbanization Growth in Thailand from 1990 to 2023

Urbanization in Thailand rose markedly from 29.4% in 1990 to 53.6% in 2023, driven by economic growth and industrialization. In the early 1990s, Bangkok and nearby provinces experienced rapid urban expansion due to investment in manufacturing and tourism. The Asian financial crisis of 1997 impacted growth, but recovery in the 2000s renewed urban migration, particularly as rural residents sought better wages in industrial and service sectors. By 2010, urbanization had increased to 43.9%, supported by Thailand’s development of transport and housing infrastructure. This trend continued into 2023 as urban centers diversified economically, reaching 53.6% as more Thais favored city life for its opportunities and amenities.