A look at the top five Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (SAOs) with the highest total revenue, based on the latest 2024 data, ahead of the upcoming SAO elections on 11 Jan 2026.
On 11 Jan 2026, there will be the Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) elections. These are important as the smallest local government units, covering areas outside urban centers and maintaining close ties with the people. They are established to care for and serve residents in villages and subdistricts on behalf of the central government, ensuring comprehensive care for all communities.
According to data from the Department of Local Administration, Ministry of Interior, as of 6 Dec 2025, there are 4,993 SAOs nationwide. This number is gradually decreasing due to some SAOs merging or upgrading to municipalities in more developed areas to gain greater administrative autonomy.
SAOs are closely watched as local government entities playing vital roles in area development, especially regarding revenue and budgeting. These figures reflect economic potential, local revenue collection, and the size and complexity of responsibilities each SAO must manage.
The Thairath Online special news team has compiled total revenue data for SAOs across the country. Official figures from 2024 show many SAOs with high total revenue, mostly located in economically developed areas featuring industries, transportation, and significant business activities. This enables steady collection of taxes and fees.
1. Bang Phli Yai SAO, Samut Prakan Province
- Self-collected revenue: 385.19 million baht
- Government allocations: 494.96 million baht
- Subsidies: 147.69 million baht
2. Bang Chalong SAO, Samut Prakan Province
- Self-collected revenue: 408.76 million baht
- Government allocations: 253.33 million baht
- Subsidies: 7.52 million baht
3. Bang Sao Thong SAO, Samut Prakan Province
- Self-collected revenue: 344.96 million baht
- Government allocations: 256.9 million baht
- Subsidies: 64.71 million baht
4. Map Yang Phon SAO, Rayong Province
- Self-collected revenue: 410.45 million baht
- Government allocations: 175.03 million baht
- Subsidies: 39.07 million baht
5. Racha Thewa SAO, Samut Prakan Province
- Self-collected revenue: 231.24 million baht
- Government allocations: 274.65 million baht
- Subsidies: 68.73 million baht
From the data on the top five SAOs by revenue, four are located in Samut Prakan Province, and one in Rayong Province, indicating these areas are key economic and industrial hubs in the country. However, the revenue levels of each SAO represent only one aspect of the size and duties of local governments, with many other factors influencing their operations and management in practice.