When I moved to Phuket in April 2024, I was looking for a place that offered more than just sandy beaches. I wanted a low cost of living, delicious food, and great weather all year round. Oh, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu nearby—that was a must for me! While I know it’s possible to scrape by on $1,000 a month in Thailand, that’s not really my vibe. I’m not here to be a “poverty nomad”—I’m here as a regular, everyday guy who wants to enjoy life without constantly worrying about the budget.
In this article, I’ll walk you through what it realistically costs to live in Phuket as a digital nomad. If you’re like me, with a budget of around $2,000 to $2,500 a month, you’ll be able to live comfortably and even treat yourself. And yes, while expenses might occasionally push closer to $3,000, it’s still a great deal for what you get in return. I’ll paint a clear picture of what you can expect, from housing to food, to those little extras that make life enjoyable. Let’s dive into the numbers and see what life in Phuket really looks like!
Contents
Accommodation Costs in Phuket
Now, let’s dive into accommodation costs, which will likely be your biggest monthly expense in Phuket. Since I moved here, I’ve noticed that Phuket is definitely on the pricier side compared to other spots in Thailand. Cities like Chiang Mai and even Bangkok offer more bang for your buck. In Phuket, rental prices are inflated by its touristy nature.
For example, you can find a small, basic 35 sqm studio apartment in Phuket for around 20,000 baht per month, which is about $605 at today’s exchange rate of 33.06 baht to $1. In comparison, that same 20,000 baht in Bangkok could get you a far better deal, like a condo with amenities—think pool, gym, and coworking space—all included.
If you want something a little bigger or with better amenities, expect to pay more. A decent one-bedroom apartment with modern amenities or something closer to the beach can easily set you back 30,000 baht ($907) or more. So, while Phuket is beautiful and has its perks (hello, beaches and BJJ gyms), you’re paying for the location. In less touristy cities, you could definitely find more affordable housing options.
Pro tip: if you’re planning to stay long-term, it’s worth checking out local Facebook groups or online forums for rentals. You might find better deals, but remember to be cautious, as scams are common in the rental market.
- Short-term rentals: Booking.com and Airbnb.com will be your best bet.
- Budget: around $20 per night
- Mid-range: $20-50 per night
- High-end: $60 and up per night
- Long-term rentals:
- Budget: $400–$600 for a condo or traditional house
- Mid-range: $500–$800 for decent private apartments
- High-end: $1,000+ for luxury condos
Food and Dining
I’ll admit it: I haven’t cooked a single meal since arriving in Phuket. With the crazy heat and the basic kitchens (or none at all) in most condos and houses I’ve rented, cooking just doesn’t feel worth the hassle. Plus, it’s super easy to eat out here. You can grab a small dish for anywhere from 100 to 200 baht ($3 to $6), and it’s pretty much what I’ve been doing since I got here.
For example, I’ve got this favorite spot in Rawai where I go weekly. I order a big meal—chicken cashew with an extra serving of chicken, steamed rice, papaya salad, shrimp cakes, and a Coke Zero—for just 395 baht ($12). Now, I eat a lot, but most people will probably be fine with one or two dishes and a drink, which means you can eat under $10 per meal easily.
When I first arrived, I didn’t keep strict track of my spending, but I had a rough target: I’d take 1,000 baht ($30) out every day when I left the house, and I’d usually come back with 200–300 baht ($6–$9) left. That adds up to around 30,000 baht ($907) per month for all my daily expenses, excluding rent.
If you’re into Western food, though, be prepared to pay more. A simple Western dish can easily set you back 300–400 baht ($9–$12), and I’ve definitely noticed the bill jumps up whenever I’ve eaten at Western-style places. I tend to avoid them because I prefer Thai food anyway, but it’s safe to say you’ll pay a premium for anything resembling a burger or pizza.
As for alcohol, it’s pricey everywhere in Phuket. There’s this little bar down the road from me where a cocktail costs around 250–300 baht ($7.50–$9). If you go to a fancier place like Groove, you’re looking at 300 baht ($9) and up for a drink. So, if you like your cocktails, budget a bit extra for that!
In summary, eating out is convenient and affordable, especially if you stick to local Thai dishes. Expect to spend more if you prefer Western food or enjoy a few drinks at the bar.
Transportation
When I first arrived in Phuket, I used Bolt to get around for a few days. The car trips usually cost me around 100–200 baht ($3–$6) each way, depending on the distance. It wasn’t too bad, but I quickly switched to using scooters because it’s cheaper and much more convenient—plus, you can zip through traffic easily. A scooter ride would cost around 60 baht ($2), so it was a no-brainer.
After a few days of Bolt rides, I decided it was better to rent a scooter. I ended up with a Yamaha Nmax 2021, which set me back 5,000 baht ($151) per month. Renting a scooter in Phuket typically costs anywhere between 4,000 and 8,000 baht ($121 to $242) depending on the engine size and model. I personally like the 155cc scooters because they strike a good balance — they’re fast enough to be fun, but not so fast that I get carried away (I’m guilty of enjoying a bit of speed).
After a while, I decided to just buy the scooter from the owner for 65,000 baht ($1,966), and now I only pay for gas, which costs me around 500 baht ($15) a month. I drive every day, all over the island, and it’s my go-to mode of transportation. Maintaining a scooter is super cheap too. I change the oil every 1,500 km, which costs about 150–200 baht ($4.50–$6), and any other maintenance you might need can be done almost anywhere on the island for a bargain price.
One important tip: make sure you have your international driver’s license before coming to Thailand. Your regular license probably won’t cut it, and you’ll end up getting fined 1,000 baht ($30) at police checkpoints if you don’t have one.
Workspace Options
When it comes to working in Phuket, I prefer using coworking spaces. Cafes and restaurants might have decent Wi-Fi, but they’re just not comfortable enough for serious work. I like having a proper desk, fast internet, and a quieter environment, which is why I stick to coworking spaces.
Currently, I work at Let’s Work in Rawai, and their memberships are pretty reasonable. You’ve got two main options:
- Basic Membership: 5,000 baht ($151) per month.
- Premium Membership: 7,500 baht ($227) per month.
The main difference between the two? With the premium option, you get a free daily coffee and access to rent a monitor, keyboard, and mouse at no additional charge. However, I’ve found the quality of these rented items to be a bit hit-or-miss, and frankly, they don’t seem to care much about maintaining them. Plus, having to set everything up and take it down every day was such a hassle that I decided to skip the rentals altogether.
Other coworking spaces in Phuket are pretty similar in terms of offerings. The price across the board usually falls between 3,000 and 8,000 baht ($91 to $242) per month, depending on what you’re looking for. Some places even offer dedicated desks, which means you can leave your rented equipment there without needing to pack up every night—a huge time-saver if you’re working with multiple devices.
In general, if you’re considering coworking spaces, I’d recommend checking out a few and seeing which one feels right for you. Whether it’s the vibe, location, or amenities, there’s plenty of variety to choose from, so pick what works best for your needs.
Lifestyle Expenses
For me, my biggest lifestyle costs are Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and the gym. Compared to Europe, the prices here in Phuket are surprisingly high. For BJJ, the cost really depends on the academy. Phuket Grappling Academy charges 6,000 baht ($181) per month, or 5,000 baht ($151) if you’re staying long-term. If you want to drop in for a single class, it’ll cost you 600 baht ($18). Gyms that offer more, like Southside MMA, Tiger, and AKA—which include MMA, wrestling, Muay Thai, ice baths, pools, and even accommodation—will run you between 8,000 and 15,000 baht ($242 to $454) per month. I stick with Phuket Grappling Academy and Southside MMA.
For regular gyms, prices vary depending on the level of the gym. Basic gyms like FX Fitness or Rawai Gym charge around 1,000 baht ($30) a month, with drop-ins costing around 80-100 baht ($2-3). Fancier places like Naiharn Gym charge more—4,000 baht ($121) per month, with a 500 baht ($15) drop-in fee. Obviously, the longer you commit, the cheaper it gets per month. You can expect to pay between 1,000 and 5,000 baht ($30 to $151) for gym memberships depending on your preference.
Massages in Phuket can be cheap or expensive, depending on where you go. In quieter areas, a massage can cost as little as 150 baht ($4.50), but the standard rate for a Thai or sports massage is around 300-400 baht ($9-$12). The fancier the place, the higher the price.
So, if you’re like me and enjoy a mix of fitness, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the occasional massage, your monthly lifestyle expenses in Phuket will vary quite a bit. For a basic gym membership and a few massages here and there, you’re looking at spending around 1,000 to 5,000 baht ($30 to $151) per month. But if you’re into high-end gyms or advanced martial arts training at places like Southside MMA or Phuket Grappling Academy, the total could climb up to 15,000 baht ($454).
In the end, it all depends on your routine and how much you’re willing to spend on your health and wellness. Phuket offers a wide range of options for any budget, so whether you want something simple or a fully loaded fitness package, you’ll find something that suits your needs. Just figure out what works best for you and adjust accordingly!
Tours in Phuket
I’ve personally visited all these spots during the low season, and I booked some with Klook and others with a tour operator, paying around 1,800 baht ($55) per tour. Expect prices to jump by 50-100% in the high season, but here’s what you can expect:
Phi Phi Islands
- Speedboat Tour: Around 2,000 baht ($60), including lunch, snorkeling, and national park fees.
- Catamaran Tour: Between 1,800 and 2,200 baht ($55–$67), with stops at Khai or Bamboo Island.
- Cruise Boat Tour: A relaxed option for about 3,000 baht ($90).
James Bond Island
- Speedboat Tour: Starts at 2,000 baht ($60), featuring canoeing through Phang Nga Bay.
- Longtail Boat Tour: Traditional option, around 1,500 baht ($45).
- Luxury Cruise: Around 3,000 baht ($90) for a more comfortable, smaller-group experience.
Similan Islands
- Speedboat Tour: Priced between 2,000 and 2,200 baht ($60–$67), perfect for snorkeling.
- Deluxe Tour: Approximately 2,400 baht ($73), with extra amenities like better meals and smaller groups.
If you’re here in the low season, you can score good deals like I did, but make sure to book early to secure the best prices.
Utilities and Services
When living in Phuket, utilities and services are quite affordable, especially compared to many Western countries. Here’s a breakdown of the main costs you’ll encounter:
Internet and Mobile Phones
When I first arrived, I grabbed a tourist SIM card for a few hundred baht that lasted a week, but I quickly found a better option. I ordered a SIM card on Lazada for 1,500 baht ($45) for the entire year, which breaks down to just 125 baht ($4) per month. This gives me 60 GB of data at high speeds, which is plenty for both personal and work use.
If you’re staying longer than just a few weeks, I highly recommend getting one of these deals instead of the more expensive tourist SIMs from 7-Eleven. Options like TRUE: Fast70 or MAXSPEED, and Dtac: Turbox100 provide a lot of data and fast speeds at a fraction of the price. You can find the same SIM I bought here: Lazada SIM Card.
Electricity and Water
For electricity and water, I’m paying about 1,000 baht ($30) per month. That covers daily essentials like showers, laundry, and regular use of my devices. However, if you run your air conditioning a lot, expect that number to increase. Phuket can get hot, so A/C usage is definitely something to watch out for when it comes to your monthly bill.
Laundry Services
Laundry in Phuket is super convenient and inexpensive. A load at a laundromat will typically cost around 40–60 baht ($1–$2), depending on the location. If you’re not a fan of doing it yourself, many places offer full-service options where they wash, dry, and fold your clothes for an additional fee. Still, even with the extra services, it’s quite affordable overall.
Healthcare and Insurance
If there’s one thing you take away from this, it’s that you NEED travel insurance. And not just any insurance—get a GOOD one. I’ve been lucky enough to stay healthy for the most part, except for some minor skin conditions, but even those were handled quickly and easily thanks to my insurance. I personally use Genki Insurance, and they’ve been great.
If you’re from Europe or Eastern Europe, you’ll probably be shocked at how expensive healthcare can be in Thailand. On the other hand, if you’re coming from the U.S., you might find it refreshingly cheap. Just to give you an idea, I was quoted 20,000 baht ($605) for an MRI of the knee at Bangkok Hospital. For comparison, the same procedure costs around $50–$60 in Kyiv.
Breaking an arm? You’re looking at thousands of dollars for treatment. Need surgery? That could easily cost you tens of thousands of dollars. I heard about a local guy who got hit by a car while riding his bike—his medical bills are already in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. What’s crazy is he could have avoided this financial nightmare with a $50 per month insurance plan, but now his family had to sell their home to cover the expenses.
I’m not trying to scare you, but don’t mess around—get insured. You don’t want to find yourself in a tough spot without coverage. Even something as simple as a doctor’s visit for a cold or cough can run you about 100 bucks. It’s just not worth the risk.
Bottom line: Don’t be dumb—get insured before you come to Thailand. It’s a small monthly cost compared to the huge bills you could face if anything serious happens.
Visa and Legal Requirements
- Tourist Visa: If your country is not eligible for the 60/90 days, then this is the most straightforward option. It allows a stay of up to 60 days, with the possibility to extend for another 30 days. This visa is best for short-term stays, but remember, you can’t legally work for a Thai company on this visa. The cost is around 2,000 baht ($60) with an extension fee of 1,900 baht ($58). If you need to stay longer, you may have to consider doing visa runs or exploring long-term options.
- Education Visa (ED Visa): If you’re looking to stay in Thailand longer while picking up a new skill, an education visa is a great option. You can enroll in Thai language courses, Muay Thai, or even cooking classes. The visa is valid for up to 12 months and typically costs between 40,000 and 55,000 baht ($1,210 to $1,670) per year, depending on the program and school. Keep in mind, while you can study, working on this visa is illegal. It’s perfect for those who want to mix learning with their digital nomad lifestyle.
- Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Thailand recently launched the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), designed specifically for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. It allows a stay of 180 days per visit and is a multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years. The visa costs 10,000 baht ($280) for each entry, and you can extend for another 180 days for the same fee. To qualify, you need to show proof of remote employment or self-employment and have a minimum of 500,000 baht (about $14,500) in your bank account.
Work Permits
If you plan to work for a Thai company or open a business in Thailand, you’ll need a Non-Immigrant B Visa and a work permit. Without these, working in Thailand is illegal and could result in fines or deportation. However, the DTV Visa allows remote work for foreign employers, making it a good option if you’re working online for clients or companies outside of Thailand.
By understanding these visa options, you can choose the right one for your situation and avoid any legal complications while enjoying life in Thailand. Always make sure to double-check the most recent requirements and fees on official government websites or Thai embassies near you.
Sample Monthly Budgets
Based on my experience and the realities of 2024, here’s what you can expect to spend as a digital nomad in Phuket, depending on your lifestyle:
Frugal Lifestyle: $1,000–$1,200 per month
- Accommodation: Renting a small, basic studio, likely without many amenities.
- Food: A 50/50 mix of cooking at home and eating out at cheap local spots (around $1–$3 per meal).
- Extras: You’ll be living on a budget, focusing on essentials without any splurges on luxury or convenience.
Moderate Lifestyle: $1,500–$2,000 per month
- Accommodation: Renting a decent one-bedroom condo with basic amenities.
- Food: You’ll eat out daily, alternating between local food and Western restaurants (roughly $3–$10 per meal). Not over-the-top, but you won’t need to worry much about spending.
- Extras: This budget lets you enjoy a balance of comfort and convenience without having to track every baht spent.
Luxury Lifestyle: $2,500+ per month
- Accommodation: Renting a modern, well-located apartment with all the amenities—pool, gym, possibly even ocean views.
- Food: You’ll dine out at high-quality restaurants, both local and international, without worrying about hygiene or price.
- Extras: At this level, you can afford comfort and luxury, covering everything from upscale restaurants to top-tier fitness or leisure activities.
Money-Saving Tips
Living in Phuket doesn’t have to break the bank if you know a few tricks. Here are some tips I’ve found useful to save money while still enjoying everything the island has to offer:
- Build relationships: Thai people are genuinely friendly, and building relationships can lead to better experiences. Most locals aren’t out to scam you, and they often go out of their way to help. By establishing trust, I’ve had people go the extra mile, like offering me a cheaper airport taxi.
- Book tours wisely: Whether you book through Klook or a trusted local agency, both can offer great deals. I’ve booked with both and found that while Klook is convenient, booking through a local agency felt more personal, and the lady even arranged a cheap minivan taxi for me. Always compare options and stick with what works for you.
- Rent a taxi driver for the day: If you have a long day of sightseeing planned, renting a taxi driver for half a day can cost around 1,000 baht. It’s cheaper than ordering multiple taxis, and you get the convenience of having a driver ready to take you around without needing to order a cab every time.
- Accommodation: When looking for a place to stay, check out Facebook Marketplace. It has tons of listings, often cheaper than what you’d find on typical rental platforms, especially if you’re planning a long-term stay.
- Eat locally: Save money by eating at food courts or small local eateries instead of touristy restaurants. Not only is the food more authentic, but it’s also much cheaper, with meals costing just a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.
- Use cash (dollar dollar bill yo!): To avoid hefty ATM withdrawal fees, take your passport and credit card to a local bank and withdraw cash for free. ATMs can charge you high fees, so this is a great way to save if you need cash frequently.
- Always be on the lookout in tourist areas: Tourist spots are known for scams, so be careful. Avoid touts, be cautious with deals that seem too good to be true, and always negotiate prices in markets. But remember, you may still pay more than locals, and that’s okay.
- Train at smaller gyms: If you’re training in Muay Thai or staying long-term, consider smaller gyms in less touristy areas. Gyms in places like Chiang Mai are cheaper than those in Phuket or Bangkok, and you’ll still get great training.
- SIM cards: Avoid buying SIM cards at the airport. Instead, get yours from official stores in malls or order through Lazada. It’s much cheaper and you’ll avoid potential scams.
Note: I’ve found that negotiating often doesn’t get you far in Thailand. Most Thais are honest, and the price they offer usually supports their family. Haggling over a $1 discount can feel unnecessary and disrespectful.
TL;DR
| Category | Item | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Budget (Short-term) | 660/night | $20/night | |
| Mid-range (Short-term) | 660-1,650/night | $20-50/night | ||
| High-end (Short-term) | 1,980+/night | $60+/night | ||
| Budget (Long-term) | 13,200-19,800/month | $400-600/month | Condo or traditional house | |
| Mid-range (Long-term) | 16,500-26,400/month | $500-800/month | Decent private apartments | |
| High-end (Long-term) | 33,000+/month | $1,000+/month | Luxury condos | |
| Food and Dining | Local meal | 100-200/meal | $3-6/meal | |
| Western meal | 300-400/meal | $9-12/meal | ||
| Beer | ~80 | ~$2.50 | ||
| Cocktail | 250-500/drink | $7.50-15/drink | ||
| Monthly food budget | ~30,000/month | ~$907/month | Based on author’s experience | |
| Transportation | Bolt ride (short distance) | 100-200/trip | $3-6/trip | |
| Bolt ride (Rawai to Patong) | ~400/trip | ~$12/trip | ||
| Scooter rental | 4,000-8,000/month | $121-242/month | ||
| Scooter purchase | 50,000-100,000 | $1,500-3,000 | Decent bike for 6-12 months; can be resold after use. | |
| Gas for scooter | ~500/month | ~$15/month | ||
| Oil change | 150-200 | $4.50-6 | Every 1,500 km | |
| Workspace | Basic coworking membership | 5,000/month | $151/month | Let’s Work in Rawai |
| Premium coworking membership | 7,500/month | $227/month | Let’s Work in Rawai | |
| Other coworking spaces | 3,000-8,000/month | $91-242/month | Varies by location and amenities | |
| Fitness and Lifestyle | BJJ at Phuket Grappling Academy | 5,000-6,000/month | $151-181/month | |
| BJJ drop-in class | 600/class | $18/class | ||
| High-end MMA gym | 8,000-15,000/month | $242-454/month | Includes various martial arts | |
| Basic gym membership | ~1,000/month | ~$30/month | FX Fitness or Rawai Gym | |
| Fancy gym membership | ~4,000/month | ~$121/month | Naiharn Gym | |
| Gym drop-in fee | 80-500/visit | $2-15/visit | Varies by gym | |
| Massage | 150-400/session | $4.50-12/session | Varies by location and type | |
| Tours | General price range | 1,500-3,000/tour | $45-90/tour | Covers popular tours (e.g., Phi Phi, James Bond Island, Similan). |
| Utilities and Services | SIM card (yearly plan) | 1,500/year | $45/year | 60 GB data/month |
| Electricity and water | ~1,000/month | ~$30/month | May increase with AC use | |
| Laundry (self-service) | 40-60/load | $1-2/load | ||
| Healthcare | MRI scan | 4,000-20,000 | $121-605 | Quoted 20,000 baht for knee MRI at Bangkok Hospital |
| Doctor visit (basic) | 2,000-3,000 | $60-90 | Includes medicine | |
| Visas | Tourist Visa | 2,000 | $60 | 60 days, extendable for 30 days |
| Tourist Visa extension | 1,900 | $58 | 30-day extension | |
| Education Visa | 40,000-55,000/year | $1,210-1,670/year | 12 months | |
| Destination Thailand Visa | 10,000/entry | $280/entry | 180 days, extendable, valid for 5 years |