One of the reasons Thailand is a good alternative to retire to, is the cost of living. But recently prices seem to be rising, much more at Farang involved business. These prices are sometimes higher than US prices even though product and labor costs are for the most part much lower when compared to the US.
I recently looked at an on line menu of one of the cafes that are publishing their business heavily on this forum. I was surprised to see a hamburger was priced at 180 baht. Converting that price to dollars, makes that burger $4.50.
Some Thai chain restaurants like S&P sell a braised chicken leg with rice for 85 baht or $2.10, American fried rice which includes a fried egg, sausage, and fried chicken drum stick also for $2.10. S&P that I have visited have air con, well decorated, and it seems in buildings that probably charge a premium to rent.
The above may not be a fair comparison, but in my view, some of the gay places are charging a premium, just because they are gay.
There are some notably exceptions, White Night is an example where you pay 220 baht ($5.50) for as much as you wish to eat including coffee or Tea and dessert. A popular host bar in the area also offers hamburger and fries for about 90 baht.
Meals at some of the other places in Boys Town area, like New Orleans, have increased prices for some items by over 70% in the last few months. I am interested in other opinions.