Ekkamai Area Profile and Information
Ekkamai is one of central Bangkok’s most well-rounded neighborhoods, offering a mix of comfort, style, and convenience that appeals to both locals and expats. Located just east of Thong Lo, it has steadily grown into a favorite spot for young professionals, families, and long-term residents who want easy access to the city without giving up a more relaxed lifestyle. With its direct connection to the BTS Skytrain, walkable streets, and plenty of local character, Ekkamai has become a place where people stay for the long haul, not just pass through.
About Ekkamai
Ekkamai sits along Sukhumvit Road in the Watthana district, bordered by the neighborhoods of Thong Lo and Phra Khanong. The area centers around Ekkamai BTS Station, which makes it a strategic choice for commuters and anyone who values quick access to central Bangkok. Ekkamai is known for its blend of old and new — hip cafes and craft beer spots sit alongside family-owned Thai restaurants and decades-old residential blocks. It is home to one of the city’s most walkable stretches of Sukhumvit and offers a more relaxed vibe than its flashier neighbor, Thong Lo.
This part of town has seen consistent development over the last decade, especially in residential properties and lifestyle venues. Modern condominiums are located along Sukhumvit 63 and Ekkamai Soi 10, while green spaces like Benjasiri Park and small community gardens provide a breather from city life.
Population and Demographics
Ekkamai attracts a diverse group of residents. The area is part of the Watthana District, which recorded about 84,000 residents in 2023, including around 15,000 registered foreign nationals, mainly from Japan, Korea, and Western countries. Young professionals and Thai office workers value Ekkamai for its convenient commute options and neighborhood feel, while many international families choose the area for its easy access to international schools and a more relaxed environment. The neighborhood also has a growing number of long-term expats who appreciate the quieter pace without moving far from central Bangkok. Digital nomads and remote workers number between 4,000 and 6,000 in the wider Sukhumvit-Asok corridor, including Ekkamai, with an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 new expats arriving in the area yearly, including both renters and buyers. The majority of residents fall within the working age group of 25 to 49, reflecting a dynamic mix of professionals and families.
Where to Live in Ekkamai
Young Professionals
Ekkamai has become popular with remote workers and professionals working in Asoke, Sathorn, or along the Sukhumvit line. Condos like The Lofts Ekkamai and Rhythm Sukhumvit 42 are sought-after for their design, walkability, and access to the BTS. Most one-bedroom units here are modern, efficient, and sit near co-working cafes and nightlife.
Families
With its quieter sois, walkable layout, and easy access to schools like NIST and Ekkamai International School, Ekkamai is a strong choice for both Thai and international families. Larger units in projects like Castle Hill Mansion Condominium and Nusasiri Grand Condominium offer family-sized layouts and proximity to supermarkets, parks, and after-school programs.
Expats & Long-Term Residents
Expats who have settled in Bangkok for the long term often gravitate toward moderately priced projects like D 65 Condominium or The Address Sukhumvit 42, which offer good space, mature communities, and a comfortable balance between cost and location. Pet owners especially like Maru Ekkamai 2, a newer development that allows animals — still a rare find in central Bangkok.
Explore Ekkamai
Things to Do
Ekkamai is full of low-key charm. Donki Mall Thonglor is a popular weekend destination with Japanese goods, restaurants, and quirky shops. For more boutique shopping, head to Gateway Ekamai or the small shops lining Ekkamai Road. The neighborhood also has a growing wellness scene, including yoga studios, spas, and fitness centers that cater to both locals and international residents.
Landmarks
Key landmarks include Major Cineplex Ekkamai, which combines cinemas, restaurants, and shops, and the Ekkamai Eastern Bus Terminal, offering routes to Pattaya and Eastern Thailand. While the area does not have grand historical landmarks, its convenience and lifestyle options have made it a practical favorite.
Shopping
Daily needs are easily met with supermarkets like MaxValu Tanjai and Big C Ekkamai, while higher-end groceries can be found at Villa Market. Specialty food stores catering to Korean, Japanese, and Western tastes are also common.
Food and Nightlife
Ekkamai balances trendy and traditional. Long-time local restaurants serve classic Thai dishes at fair prices, while international spots like El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse, Beast & Butter, and Kurasu cater to more modern tastes. Bars along Ekkamai Soi 10 and Soi 12 offer everything from live jazz to speakeasy cocktails. Insider tip: locals often head to Beer Belly for relaxed weekend drinks and games.
Transportation
The area is served directly by Ekkamai BTS Station, part of the Sukhumvit line, with easy connections to Asoke, Siam, and the airport link. The neighborhood is also accessible via major roads like Sukhumvit, Rama 4, and Ekkamai-Ramintra. It is walkable by Bangkok standards, and motorcycle taxis and Grab rides are easy to find.
The Real Estate Market
Popular Projects
Modern high-rises like The Lofts Ekkamai and Maru Ekkamai 2 are go-to options for those seeking contemporary designs and a wide range of on-site facilities. Units here typically range from 35 to 130 square meters, with sale prices averaging 140,000 to 180,000 baht per square meter. Maru Ekkamai 2 stands out as one of the few pet-friendly buildings in the area and includes green space and modern fitness facilities.
Condos such as Rhythm Sukhumvit 42 and The Address Sukhumvit 42 offer well-located one and two-bedroom units that appeal to both renters and end-users. Prices in these buildings generally sit between 120,000 and 160,000 baht per square meter, offering a balance between cost and convenience.
Older developments like Castle Hill Mansion Condominium tend to attract buyers who prioritize interior space. While not newly built, these buildings include large three- or four-bedroom units that often exceed 200 square meters. These units are suitable for families or investors targeting value per square meter.
For those seeking a quiet but connected lifestyle, D 65 Condominium and Nusasiri Grand Condominium provide good value, proximity to the BTS, and practical layouts. Nusasiri also has shops and services on site, including direct skywalk access to the BTS.
Sales Market
Sale prices in Ekkamai vary widely depending on project age, location, and facilities. Newer high-rises range from around 140,000 to 200,000 baht per square meter. Entry-level resale units in mid-range buildings begin at approximately 2.7 million baht for smaller one-bedroom units. High-end penthouses and large family-sized condos can sell for 40 million baht or more. Rental yields are estimated at 4 to 5 percent annually, which remains attractive for buyers interested in long-term rental income.
Rental Market
Monthly rents for one-bedroom condos in Ekkamai start from around 13,000 baht in older buildings and go up to 40,000 or more in newer mid-range developments. Luxury one-bedroom units in prime buildings can rent for 55,000 to 90,000 baht. Two-bedroom units usually range between 35,000 to 75,000 baht per month. Large three- or four-bedroom apartments in older condos can rent for 70,000 to 150,000 baht, depending on the building and location.
Schools and Education
Ekkamai is near several respected international schools. NIST International School is nearby, and Ekkamai International School, located on Soi 63, offers an American curriculum from kindergarten to high school. Thai families often choose schools like Wattana Wittaya Academy, which is accessible via Sukhumvit Road. Kindergartens and daycare centers are also plentiful, making the area suitable for families with young children.
Summary
Ekkamai offers an easygoing, well-connected lifestyle with a lot of practical advantages. It is central, walkable, and packed with dining, education, and housing options that work for everyone from solo professionals to large families. Real estate here holds value well, and there is something for every type of renter or buyer — whether you are looking for modern design, pet-friendly living, or more space for your money.
Looking to rent or buy in Ekkamai? Explore your options with our curated listings and discover what makes this neighborhood so unique — including several Great Deals priced under market value and verified by our real estate team.
