Jomtien offers much calmer and family-friendly accommodation as it is not as congested as Pattaya. You can find serviced apartments for long-term rentals at very nominal rates.
If you are driving your own car, Jomtien is a great option as you can easily drive to the main shopping centre or any of the tourist beaches. Public transport is quite efficient in and around Pattaya and much regulated. Therefore, if you are coming into Pattaya park your car in the shopping centre behind Hilton and use the vans that cost around one BHAT a trip going around Pattaya CBD.
Most complexes in Jomtien along the beach have their own private beaches which are quite clean and well maintained. Other accommodations and hotels have easy access to the beach. This area has become quite popular with tourist from Central Asia and Russia as you can also arrange for long term rental in Pattaya at very nominal prices.
We stayed at Beach Gallery Hotel in Jomtien which is very close to the beach and enjoys a very peaceful location and great views from the balcony. This area is more suited to families looking for quiet neighbourhood and apartment complexes. Corner shops and stores provide basic amenities and you do not have to drive to shopping malls.
Small neighbourhood cafes can make your Thai food under 100 Baht ( $4.5). The famous restaurant "Cabbages and Condoms" has a branch in Jomtien Beach. You will probably need a car to live in this area.
