A recent national survey has revealed that a significant majority of Thai citizens would struggle financially if they lost their jobs, with over 80 percent having insufficient savings to last more than three months. Conducted in May 2025 by Suan Dusit University, the poll sought to understand how Thais are coping with ongoing economic challenges.
According to data collected from 1,229 respondents from various social, educational, and financial backgrounds, 48.32 percent reported having savings equivalent to less than one month’s income. Another 35.24 percent said they had enough to cover one to three months of expenses. The findings point to a widespread lack of financial resilience among Thai workers, particularly in the face of economic uncertainty or sudden unemployment.
This financial fragility comes amid broader concerns about Thailand’s economic stability. Over 76 percent of participants expressed skepticism regarding the government’s ability to handle the potential fallout from reciprocal tariffs recently imposed by the United States, indicating low public confidence in official economic management.
Financial experts have long recommended more robust savings buffers. The Association of Thai Financial Planners advises that salaried workers should aim to save the equivalent of six months’ income, while freelance workers are encouraged to accumulate savings covering at least one year of living expenses. The organization also recommends skill diversification as a hedge against job loss.
In practical terms, however, many are unable to meet these targets. One informal sector worker, who sells lottery tickets and also drives a motorcycle taxi, said he has taken steps to cut living costs, including relocating to a smaller room. Despite these efforts, he admitted that saving enough to survive a year without income remains out of reach.
The survey results reflect growing concerns over household financial security in Thailand. While government efforts to address economic pressures continue, a significant portion of the population remains vulnerable to economic shocks.
