Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Thailand Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Phuket's property market is included in our pack
Phuket in 2026 offers expats a unique combination of tropical island living, strong international services, and an established foreign community that few Southeast Asian destinations can match.
We constantly update this blog post to give you the freshest and most practical information for planning your move to Phuket.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Phuket.
Fact-checked and reviewed by our local expert
Attaya Suriyawonghae 🇹🇭
Real Estate Broker, Zest Real Estate
Is Phuket a good place to live in 2026?
Is quality of life getting better or worse in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, Phuket's quality of life is generally improving thanks to continued infrastructure development, better international services, and a maturing expat community, though affordability pressures are becoming more noticeable in popular areas.
The factor that has improved the most in Phuket over the past two to three years is the expansion of wellness and fitness infrastructure, with world-class gyms, Muay Thai camps, and health-focused cafes now scattered across neighborhoods like Rawai, Chalong, and Cherng Talay, making active living far more accessible than before.
On the flip side, traffic congestion remains Phuket's most persistent challenge, particularly during the high tourist season from November to April when roads between Patong, Kata, and Phuket Town become heavily clogged, adding significant commute time to daily routines.
Are hospitals good in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, Phuket offers some of the best private healthcare in Thailand outside of Bangkok, with several hospitals providing international-standard care, English-speaking staff, and modern medical equipment.
The hospitals expats most commonly recommend in Phuket include Bangkok Hospital Phuket (which holds JCI international accreditation), Bangkok Hospital Siriroj, and Phuket International Hospital, all of which cater extensively to foreign patients.
A standard doctor consultation in Phuket costs between 800 and 1,500 baht (roughly 22 to 42 USD or 20 to 39 EUR) at private clinics, while specialist consultations at private hospitals typically range from 1,500 to 3,000 baht (42 to 84 USD or 39 to 78 EUR) before any tests or imaging.
Private health insurance is strongly recommended for expats living in Phuket because while Thai public hospitals provide affordable care, private hospital bills can add up quickly for procedures, and some visa categories (like certain retirement visas) now require proof of medical coverage.
Are there any good international schools in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, Phuket has roughly a dozen international schools serving expat families, which is unusually strong for a Thai island, with several offering internationally recognized curricula like British IGCSE, IB Diploma, and American programs.
The most reputable international schools among expat families in Phuket include British International School Phuket (BISP), UWC Thailand, and HeadStart International School Phuket, all of which have strong academic reputations and well-established expat communities.
Annual tuition fees at Phuket international schools typically range from 300,000 to 600,000 baht (8,400 to 16,800 USD or 7,800 to 15,600 EUR) for mid-range options, while premium schools like UWC Thailand and BISP can reach 600,000 to 1,200,000 baht (16,800 to 33,600 USD or 15,600 to 31,200 EUR) per year.
Waitlists at the most popular schools, especially for early years and key transition grades, can be significant, so early application is essential, while public schools are generally not a practical option for most expat children unless they are fluent in Thai and specifically seeking a Thai-language education.
Is Phuket a dangerous place in 2026?
As of early 2026, Phuket is generally considered safe for residents and expats by Thai standards, with most risks being practical hazards rather than serious crime, though it is not without its issues typical of a heavy-tourism environment.
The most common safety concerns expats should be aware of in Phuket are road and traffic accidents (which remain the island's biggest genuine danger), petty theft and scams in nightlife areas like Patong's Bangla Road, and occasional incidents tied to alcohol and poorly lit streets late at night.
The neighborhoods generally considered safest for expats to live in Phuket include Cherng Talay, Laguna, Bang Tao, Rawai, Nai Harn, Chalong, and the quieter pockets of Kamala, all of which have more residential, family-oriented atmospheres compared to tourist-heavy zones.
Women can generally live alone safely in Phuket, especially in these residential expat areas, though common-sense precautions like using ride-hailing apps at night, avoiding isolated beaches after dark, and being cautious around intoxicated crowds in Patong are commonly recommended.
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How much does everyday life cost in Phuket in 2026?
What monthly budget do I need to live well in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, a single person can live comfortably in Phuket on around 70,000 to 90,000 baht per month (roughly 1,950 to 2,500 USD or 1,800 to 2,350 EUR), which covers a decent one-bedroom apartment, regular dining out, transport, and leisure activities.
For a more modest but still decent lifestyle in Phuket, a single person can manage on about 50,000 to 60,000 baht per month (1,400 to 1,700 USD or 1,300 to 1,550 EUR), though this means living inland, cooking more at home, and limiting expensive outings.
For a more comfortable or upscale lifestyle in Phuket with a nicer villa, frequent dining at quality restaurants, gym memberships, and regular trips around the island, expect to spend 120,000 to 180,000 baht per month (3,350 to 5,000 USD or 3,100 to 4,700 EUR) as a single person or couple.
Housing is by far the largest expense category in Phuket, often consuming 40% or more of a monthly budget because Phuket's real estate is priced closer to an international resort market than a typical Thai city, especially in beach-adjacent areas like Bang Tao, Surin, and Kata.
What is the average income tax rate in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, a typical middle-income earner in Phuket (or anywhere in Thailand) with taxable income around 1.2 million baht per year can expect an effective income tax rate of roughly 12% to 16%, depending on applicable deductions and allowances.
Thailand uses progressive national income tax brackets that apply uniformly across the country, starting at 0% for income up to 150,000 baht and rising through several brackets to a top marginal rate of 35% on income above 5 million baht per year, as published by the Revenue Department.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Thailand versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What kind of foreigners actually live in Phuket in 2026?
Where do most expats come from in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, the largest expat communities in Phuket come from Europe (particularly the UK, France, Germany, and Russia), Australia, and various Asian countries, with Americans also representing a notable presence among the roughly 115,000 foreign residents on the island.
Foreign residents make up a significant portion of Phuket's population, with estimates suggesting around 115,000 expatriates among the island's approximately 600,000 total residents, which is one of the highest concentrations of expats anywhere in Thailand outside Bangkok.
The main reasons expats from these origin countries are drawn to Phuket include the tropical climate, established international infrastructure (schools, hospitals, services), relatively affordable cost of living compared to Western countries, and the strong existing expat community that makes settling in easier.
Phuket's expat population is a genuine mix of retirees seeking tropical relaxation, working professionals in hospitality and real estate, digital nomads attracted by the island lifestyle and coworking options, and families who value the international schools and outdoor activities available year-round.
Where do most expats live in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, the most popular neighborhoods for expats in Phuket are Cherng Talay and Bang Tao (especially near Laguna), Rawai and Nai Harn in the south, Chalong for families and value-seekers, Kathu for those wanting a central location near golf courses, and Phuket Town for those who prefer urban walkability and local culture.
What makes these Phuket neighborhoods attractive to expats is not just beach access but the combination of established international amenities, including restaurants serving Western cuisine, fitness facilities, coworking spaces, proximity to international schools, and active expat social communities that make integration much easier.
Phuket Town is increasingly attracting expats as an up-and-coming area, offering renovated Sino-Portuguese shophouses, trendy cafes, lower housing costs compared to beachside areas, and a more authentically Thai atmosphere while still being only 30 to 40 minutes from the island's main beaches.
Are expats moving in or leaving Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, Phuket continues to experience a net inflow of expats, with more foreigners arriving to settle than leaving, though the composition is shifting toward long-stay lifestyle residents, digital nomads, and families rather than short-term property investors.
The main factor driving expats to move to Phuket right now is the appeal of combining tropical island living with strong international infrastructure, including quality healthcare, international schools, and reliable internet, at a cost still significantly lower than most Western countries.
The main factor causing some expats to leave Phuket recently is rising housing costs in popular beach areas combined with increasingly congested traffic, visa complexity, and the "island premium" on goods and services that can make long-term budgeting more challenging than expected.
Compared to similar destinations in the region like Bali, Da Nang, or Koh Samui, Phuket remains one of the stronger magnets for expats due to its more developed infrastructure, though some cost-conscious expats are now considering alternatives like Chiang Mai or Hua Hin for better value.
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What paperwork do I need to move to Phuket in 2026?
What visa options are popular in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, the three most popular visa types for expats moving to Phuket are the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa for higher-income professionals and retirees, the retirement Non-Immigrant O or O-A visa for those aged 50 and above, and the Thailand Privilege Card (formerly Thailand Elite) for those who prefer a paid, hassle-free long-stay option.
The most commonly used expat visa, the retirement Non-Immigrant O, typically requires applicants to be at least 50 years old, provide proof of income or savings (usually 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account or monthly income of 65,000 baht), and obtain health insurance coverage meeting minimum requirements.
Thailand does offer a digital nomad option through the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), introduced in 2024, which provides a 5-year multiple-entry visa allowing stays of up to 180 days per entry for remote workers, freelancers, and those participating in approved activities like Muay Thai training or Thai cooking courses.
Most long-stay visas in Phuket require annual renewal or extension at the local immigration office, with the process typically involving updated financial documentation, address verification, and 90-day reporting compliance throughout the year.
How long does it take to get residency in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, processing times for visa approvals in Thailand vary widely, with straightforward retirement or tourist visa extensions often completed in a single day at immigration, while more complex applications like the LTR visa can take several weeks to a few months depending on documentation completeness.
Common factors that can delay residency applications in Phuket include incomplete financial documentation, missing health insurance certificates, bank account issues, and backlogs at immigration offices during peak periods, while having all paperwork in order and using a reputable visa agent can significantly speed up the process.
True permanent residency in Thailand is a separate, more demanding pathway that requires at least three consecutive years of holding a non-immigrant visa, meeting income thresholds, and passing through a quota system, making it a multi-year commitment that most expats do not pursue, preferring instead to renew long-stay visas annually.
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Thailand. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.
How hard is it to find a job in Phuket in 2026?
Which industries are hiring the most in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, the industries hiring the most in Phuket are hospitality and tourism (hotels, resorts, food and beverage), real estate and property services, international education (teaching positions at international schools), wellness and health services, and marine and yachting services, all of which reflect Phuket's tourism-driven economy.
Getting hired in Phuket without speaking Thai is realistic in certain sectors, particularly international-facing roles in hotels, real estate sales to foreign buyers, international schools, and businesses serving the expat community, though Thai language skills dramatically expand your options and earning potential.
The roles most accessible to foreign job seekers in Phuket include English teaching positions, hospitality management at international hotels, sales and marketing for real estate developers targeting foreign buyers, dive instructors, yacht crew, and various specialist positions in wellness and fitness facilities.
What salary ranges are common for expats in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, typical salary ranges for expats working in Phuket vary enormously by industry and role, but a general middle-range for professional positions is 60,000 to 120,000 baht per month (1,700 to 3,350 USD or 1,550 to 3,100 EUR), which provides a comfortable but not luxurious lifestyle on the island.
Entry-level or mid-level expat positions in Phuket, such as junior teaching roles or hospitality supervisors, typically pay between 40,000 and 80,000 baht per month (1,100 to 2,250 USD or 1,050 to 2,100 EUR), often with housing or benefits that effectively increase total compensation.
Senior or specialized expat roles in Phuket, such as hotel general managers, international school principals, or real estate directors, can command 150,000 to 300,000 baht per month or more (4,200 to 8,400 USD or 3,900 to 7,800 EUR), though such positions are competitive and relatively scarce.
Work visa sponsorship by employers in Phuket is less common than in Bangkok, but international schools, larger hotel groups, and established real estate companies are the most likely sponsors, while many expats work remotely for overseas employers or run their own businesses under appropriate visa arrangements.
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What's daily life really like for expats in Phuket right now?
What do expats love most about living in Phuket right now?
Expats in Phuket consistently praise three things above all: the beach and outdoor lifestyle available year-round, the strong international infrastructure (good hospitals, international schools, familiar services), and the welcoming, established expat community that makes social integration relatively easy.
The lifestyle benefit most frequently praised by expats in Phuket is the ability to maintain an active, outdoor-focused life throughout the year, with easy access to beaches, Muay Thai gyms, diving, sailing, and scenic hiking, all within a short drive from wherever you live on the island.
The practical advantage expats appreciate most is how developed Phuket is compared to other Thai islands, with reliable high-speed internet, multiple quality hospital options, international supermarkets, and a functional (if imperfect) network of services that make daily life genuinely convenient.
Socially, Phuket's active expat club scene, regular networking events through groups like InterNations and the Phuket Expat Club, plus the concentration of like-minded foreigners in neighborhoods like Rawai and Cherng Talay, make building a social network much easier than in more isolated locations.
What do expats dislike most about life in Phuket right now?
The top complaints from expats living in Phuket are the increasingly bad traffic congestion (especially during high season between Patong, Kata, and Phuket Town), the "island premium" pricing on housing and imported goods, and the high cost of quality international schooling that can strain family budgets.
The daily inconvenience that frustrates expats the most is Phuket's lack of public transportation, which means most residents depend on scooters, cars, or expensive taxis, and getting stuck in traffic jams on the island's limited road network becomes a regular annoyance, particularly during peak tourist months.
The bureaucratic issue that causes the most headaches is the visa and 90-day reporting system, which requires regular trips to immigration offices, careful documentation, and often long queues, though many expats use visa agents to reduce this burden at an additional cost.
Most expats find these frustrations manageable rather than deal-breakers, viewing them as the trade-offs for tropical island living, though some do eventually relocate to less tourist-heavy destinations like Chiang Mai or Hua Hin when the congestion and costs become too much.
What are the biggest culture shocks in Phuket right now?
The biggest culture shocks expats experience when moving to Phuket are the dramatically different driving norms and road safety standards, the complex bureaucracy around visas and official paperwork, and the seasonal intensity swings between quiet off-season periods and overwhelming high-season tourist crowds.
The social norm that surprises newcomers the most in Phuket is the Thai concept of "saving face," which means direct confrontation and public criticism are strongly avoided, and expats often need time to adjust to a communication style that is more indirect and relationship-focused than they may be used to.
The aspect of daily routines that takes the longest for expats to adjust to is the rhythm of "island time" combined with seasonal business closures, where some restaurants and services operate on unpredictable schedules, many businesses close during low season, and appointments often start later than planned.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Thailand compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
Can I buy a home as a foreigner in Phuket in 2026?
Can foreigners legally own property in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, foreign property ownership in Phuket is legally restricted but not prohibited, with foreigners able to own condominium units outright (within the foreign ownership quota of 49% per building) but not land directly, which is a rule that applies across all of Thailand.
The specific restriction foreigners face when buying property in Phuket is that they cannot own land in their own name, which means purchasing a villa or house typically involves either a long-term lease arrangement (usually 30 years, renewable) or setting up a Thai company structure, both of which require careful legal guidance.
In practical terms, foreigners in Phuket can fully own condominium units (the most straightforward option), lease land with a house for up to 30 years with renewal options, or use more complex structures for landed property, making condos the cleanest and most common choice for foreign buyers.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing the whole property buying process for foreigners in Phuket.
What is the average price per m² in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, the average price per square meter for condominiums in Phuket is approximately 145,000 to 160,000 baht (roughly 4,050 to 4,500 USD or 3,750 to 4,150 EUR), though prices in prime beachfront areas like Laguna, Bang Tao, Surin, and Kamala can reach 180,000 to 250,000 baht per m² or higher.
Property prices in Phuket have remained relatively stable to moderately increasing over the past two to three years, with Knight Frank reporting an average of around 140,000 baht per m² in 2024, and ongoing development and sustained foreign interest keeping prices firm rather than showing dramatic swings in either direction.
Also, you'll find our latest property market analysis about Phuket here.
Do banks give mortgages to foreigners in Phuket in 2026?
As of early 2026, mortgages for foreigners in Phuket are available but limited, with most Thai banks being conservative about lending to non-residents, meaning foreign buyers often need to pay cash, arrange international financing, or find one of the few banks willing to work with foreign applicants.
The banks in Thailand that have historically been more open to foreign mortgage applications include UOB Thailand, Kasikorn Bank, and Bangkok Bank, though policies vary and approval depends heavily on individual circumstances and documentation.
Typical mortgage conditions for foreigners who do qualify in Phuket include a down payment of 30% to 50% (higher than for Thai nationals), interest rates ranging from 5% to 8% depending on the bank and loan terms, and maximum loan terms of 10 to 20 years with property located in approved areas.
Foreigners typically need to provide proof of stable income (often from overseas sources), employment verification, tax returns, passport and visa documentation, and a Thai bank account to qualify, and the documentation requirements are generally more extensive than what Thai nationals face.
You can also read our latest update about mortgage and interest rates in Thailand.
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What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Phuket, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can ... and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source | Why It's Authoritative | How We Used It |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand National Statistical Office (NSO) | Thailand's official statistics agency for income and spending data. | We used NSO household surveys as the baseline for Thai living costs. We then adjusted upward for Phuket's premium using real estate research. |
| Bank of Thailand (BOT) | Thailand's central bank and most reliable source for inflation data. | We used BOT reports to frame 2026 purchasing power and cost pressures. We cross-checked against World Bank inflation data for consistency. |
| CBRE Thailand - Phuket Report | Top-tier global real estate consultancy with rigorous research methods. | We used CBRE's Phuket figures to understand housing supply and market direction. We relied on it to support location-specific cost assumptions. |
| Knight Frank - Phuket Market Report | Major international real estate firm with structured market research. | We used Knight Frank to anchor Phuket condo pricing per square meter. We triangulated their data with CBRE for independent verification. |
| Thailand Revenue Department | The primary source for Thai personal income tax rates and rules. | We used official brackets to state current tax rates accurately. We computed practical effective tax examples for common expat salaries. |
| Thailand BOI - LTR Visa Program | Official program site for Thailand's flagship long-stay visa. | We used it to list popular visa pathways for higher-income expats. We contrasted LTR requirements with retirement and other visa routes. |
| U.S. OSAC - Thailand Security | U.S. State Department partnership widely used for security assessments. | We used OSAC to frame realistic safety risks without sensationalism. We triangulated with UK FCDO advice for balanced perspective. |
| UK FCDO - Thailand Travel Advice | UK government regularly updates safety guidance with specific warnings. | We used FCDO to highlight practical daily risks in Phuket. We combined it with OSAC to avoid relying on a single government source. |
| UN DESA - International Migrant Stock | The UN's standard dataset for migrant populations worldwide. | We used UN data to anchor claims about who lives in Thailand. We avoided relying on informal expat forum estimates alone. |
| IOM - Thailand Migration Report 2024 | IOM compiles migration data with transparent methodology. | We used IOM to contextualize migration patterns to Thailand. We triangulated with UN figures for a complete picture. |
| British International School Phuket (BISP) | The school's official fee page with directly verifiable numbers. | We used BISP fees to give realistic tuition ranges for families. We used it to properly size the family budget section. |
| Bangkok Hospital Phuket | The hospital's primary statement of international accreditations. | We used it to identify quality healthcare options for expats. We relied on accreditation as a quality signal over reviews alone. |
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Thailand. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.