Top expat cities

Bhutan

Thimphu

#1 Top 5 cities

Thimphu is the only broadly practical choice in Bhutan for foreigners because it concentrates administration, services, schools, and most international links.

Country overview

Population

98 676

Year-round temperatures

Day: 9°C až 25°C

Night: -2°C až 14°C

Climate

A highland climate with a cold winter, a mild summer, and clear seasonal variation.

Distance to the sea

700 km

Social atmosphere

6/10

Costs

Housing cost 5/10
Food cost 4/10

Business friendliness

5/10

Safety

8/10

Crime is relatively low and normal precautions are usually sufficient, though petty theft, alcohol-related incidents, road risks and limited emergency care remain relevant.

Natural disaster resilience

4/10

The highland capital is exposed to major earthquake risk, monsoon landslides, flash flooding, wildfires and road or utility disruption.

Other scores

Other scores

Internet availability 8/10
Internet speed 5/10
Internet stability 6/10
Electricity stability 5/10

Community types

  • Teachers
  • Corporate expats
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Families
  • Long-term expats

Largest nationality groups

  • 🇮🇳Indians
  • 🇺🇸Americans
  • 🇬🇧British
  • 🇦🇺Australians

Pros / Cons

Pros

  • +Quality services
  • +Strong civic amenities
  • +Good for long-term stay
  • +Pleasant atmosphere

Cons

  • −Higher prices
  • −Smaller job market
  • −Smaller expat scene