Where Will Pattaya Expand Next?

Pattaya is a city that is constantly expanding with visitors coming from all across the world. The demographics of those visiting the city are constantly evolving and, as such, new and different forms of accommodation are required. Naturally, there are still high numbers of expats living in the city with this only expected to increase thanks to the incredible sums of money that are being invested in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and Eastern Seaboard. This is fantastic for Pattaya, but does the question, where are these people going to be located with land already being scarce.

Pattaya has expanded at a remarkable rate over the last 10-15 years resulting in little land being available in areas that have always been regarded as prime locations close to Pattaya Beach. Pratamnak, Naklua, Na Jomtien and, of course, Jomtien have changed beyond recognition over the same period with East Pattaya almost becoming a town in its own right. Available land in these areas is also now becoming scarce leading to the inevitable increase in prices, potentially making these areas less attractive to developers and hoteliers.

As a result, we have seen expansions take place on the outskirts of the city in places such as Huay Yai and Bang Saray where you can get high-quality properties that are slightly cheaper. The problem is that these areas are now becoming increasingly populated so prices are forever increasing with new locations needed. The problem is people don’t want to be located too far out but also they don’t want or can’t afford to pay premium prices.

Luxury pool villa for sale in a new village next to Phoenix Golf Course not far from Bang Saray

Land to the north of Naklua is now becoming more appealing and is reasonably plentiful in supply. It is not far from the coast and the Sukhumvit Road makes travel back into Pattaya quite straightforward. However, the beaches which are few and far between are of a poor quality that reduces the area’s appeal to tourists with also question marks about the local infrastructure. This seems an option for expats but not really for holidaymakers.

Land around the 36 Highway is also being used at an increasing rate which makes sense for those commuting to the Eastern Seaboard or Bangkok. Once again this is a good option for expats but not really for tourists. Houses are of a good standard and far cheaper than in downtown Pattaya or more central East Pattaya. With increasing numbers of Thais choosing Pattaya as a place to live and have holiday homes, these properties are likely to be snapped up quickly. This can be supported by increased building in Wong Nong Ket (Noi and Yoi) and the growing popularity of the Rugby School in the northeast of the city.

Fantastic value for this 5 bedroom pool villa in East Pattaya.

So, that leaves the need for hotels and condominiums. There is still some land available in both Naklua and Pratamnak which is going to be appealing but little if any would be regarded as beachfront although they are within easy walking distance. As this land is scarce, it will inevitably be expensive that may put some hotels off, certainly those that focus on coach parties. That opens the door for 5-star hotels or upmarket condos although they will experience plenty of competition.

Finally, the options are to again expand in the Bang Saray area. The beaches are available which will appeal although the area is far from cheap and some way out of Pattaya and the bright lights. It is perhaps fair to think that better infrastructure and more shops and restaurants will be required to make the place more appealing.