Thailand
Cost of Living in Phuket
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 22.1Rent: 10.8Groceries: 39.1Restaurant: 21.3
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$502/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$752/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$913/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $371 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $234 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $229 |
| Restaurant Meal | $4 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $25 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $67 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Phuket?
Compare Phuket with other cities at specific budget levels:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Phuket?
A minimal monthly budget in Phuket is approximately $502, a typical budget is $752, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $913 per month.
How much is rent in Phuket?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Phuket city center costs approximately $371/month. Outside the center, expect around $234/month.
Is Phuket expensive compared to New York?
Phuket's COL+Rent Index is 22.1 compared to New York's 100, meaning Phuket is about 78% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Phuket?
Monthly groceries in Phuket cost approximately $229. The city's Groceries Index is 39.1 (NYC = 100).