13 Best Places To Live In Phuket
Phuket Town, Patong, Kathu, Kata, Rawai, Thalang, Chalong, Kamala, and Bang Tao are some of the best places to live in Phuket for expats and digital nomads. In addition to workers abroad, many retirees in recent years have chosen to retire abroad in Phuket for good reasons.
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Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is located in the Andaman Sea. The island offers a blend of modern luxuries and tropical serenity, with a vibrant nightlife scene, shopping opportunities for different budgets, and outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, diving, and surfing.
In this Pacific Prime article, we’ll introduce you to the top 13 best places in Phuket for expats and digital nomads. We’ll explain how each area meets the needs of different expats, from transportation to entertainment and access to nature.
13 Best Places to Settle Down in Phuket
Phuket Town, Patong, Kathu, Kata, Rawai, Thalang, Chalong, and Bang Tao are among our top picks as the best destinations for expats and digital nomads like you. Hopefully, by the end of the article, you’ll have a better idea about where you might want to settle in Phuket.
Phuket Town
Phuket Town is popular with expats and provides a gateway to Phuket’s other attractions, such as beaches, natural parks, and nearby islands. It is a culturally rich city with a mix of modern and traditional buildings, bustling markets, historical sites, museums, temples, and shrines.
It also offers a wide range of food choices, including street food, seafood, and international cuisine, and has accommodation options to fit all budgets, from low-rise complexes to apartments catering to local needs.
Transportation is efficient, with easy access to buses and tuk-tuks. Phuket Town is also a hub of entertainment, with a dynamic nightlife, bars, nightclubs, and street performances. You can explore numerous points of interest, like the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, Rang Hill viewpoint, and night markets.
Activities range from snorkeling and scuba diving to Thai cooking classes and learning about the culture and history of Thailand. Residents should be mindful of high-density population and occasional traffic congestion in some parts of the town.
Patong
Patong is a lively and energetic beach town situated on the west coast of Phuket Island. It is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, offering residents, including expats, a lively environment, vast stretches of sand, and a wide range of nightlife options.
For food lovers, Patong is a paradise with a variety of street food vendors and local restaurants serving delicious Thai and seafood cuisine. Those who want to try different flavors can also find international cuisine options available.
Transportation is easily accessible with regular buses and taxis available for travel around the island. Shopping enthusiasts can explore several markets and malls in Patong.
Entertainment is a significant feature of Patong, with numerous bars, clubs, and night markets catering to all types of customers. You can explore several places, including Patong Beach, Freedom Beach, and the Simon Cabaret Show, or simply wander around the town on a scooter or motorbike.
However, you should be cautious of heavy traffic during peak season and occasionally aggressive touts and scammers targeting foreigners.
Kathu
A bustling town in the middle of Phuket Island, Kathu is popular with expats and known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and diverse activities. If you are an outgoing person, Kathu’s outdoor activities, such as hiking and zip-lining, along with its central location, will suit you perfectly.
Food choices in Kathu are plentiful, ranging from Thai dishes and street food to international cuisine catering to different tastes and budgets. Housing options in Kathu range from many villas to apartments.
Transportation in Kathu is convenient thanks to taxis and tuk-tuks. Motorbikes are a common sight. The town is also well-connected to other areas on the island via public transport.
Main attractions of Kathu include Kathu Waterfall, Phuket Wakepark, and three golf courses. Buddhist temples and shrines are common in Kathu, and visitors of all faiths are welcome.
The cost of living in Kathu is on the higher end in Thailand, and the crowded areas during peak tourist seasons can sometimes put people off. However, overall, Kathu is a place you will fall in love with, like many before you have.
Kata
Located on the southwest coast of Phuket, Kata is suitable for expats who prefer a quieter and more relaxed beach town. Kata’s stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere offer a perfect escape from the busier areas of Phuket.
A range of eateries cater to all budgets and tastes, serving local Thai dishes, seafood, and international cuisine. Similarly, housing options range from small apartments to luxurious villas, making living in the town accessible to all lifestyles and preferences.
Although transportation in Kata is limited to Tuk-tuks and taxis, the town is small and walkable, so getting around is not a problem. Entertainment options in Kata are more laid-back than those in Patong, with a range of bars and restaurants offering live music.
In your free time, you can explore the area on a motorbike, and there are many attractions in Kata, including the beautiful Kata Beach, the Big Buddha statue, and the view from the Kata Viewpoint. The town is also close to the Chalong Temple, Phi Phi Island, and other attractions in Phuket.
Although the cost of living can be higher than in other parts of Phuket, Kata’s peaceful and tranquil lifestyle within its stunning natural surroundings can easily make you feel it’s all worth it.
Rawai
On Phuket’s southern tip, Rawai is a peaceful residential area ideal for expats and digital nomads who value convenience and tranquility. Rawai beach is a drop-off point for long-tail boats to nearby islands and provides scenic views.
Food enthusiasts will be thrilled with the diverse food options in Rawai, as local restaurants and cafes serve fresh seafood and produce. From basic apartments to luxurious villas, the town offers various housing options with spectacular ocean views and world-class amenities.
Getting around Rawai is easy with taxis, tuk-tuks, public transportation, and motorbikes available to explore the town and its surrounding areas.
Thalang
Located in the northern part of Phuket, away from the southern tourist hubs, Thalang is a peaceful residential area ideal for expats with families, with several gorgeous beaches in its proximity. The town’s relaxed ambiance, serene scenery, and close-knit community have won many expats’ hearts.
You can stroll along Phuket’s longest beach, the Mai Khao beach, or visit Splash Jungle Water Park, or admire the Wat Phra Nang Sang Temple by the dawn’s early light. The town is also famous for the Thalang National Museum, where you can find relics of the region’s history.
Food options in Thalang consist mainly of traditional Thai dishes, seafood, and street food. The town may not offer an extensive range of international cuisine for the gastronome in you, but it does offer excellent seafood options.
Thalang has relatively few nightlife options, but the peace and quiet is exactly what many residents love it for. On occasions when you’re looking for some fun or shopping therapy, some neighboring towns, such as Phuket Town, do offer more extensive options for entertainment and shopping.
Getting around in Thalang mainly depends on cars or motorbikes, because there are limited public transport options in some areas. Taxis and tuk-tuks are available, but they can cost a little more than in neighboring towns.
Chalong
Chalong is a hidden gem on the southeast coast of Phuket that expats should explore. While not the center of the bustling tourist spot, the area strikes a great balance between Phuket’s tropical charm and a more refined lifestyle.
It is known for its stunning scenery, great restaurants, and peaceful atmosphere. Housing options are available for all lifestyles and budgets, and it’s easy to go places with taxis and tuk-tuks.
There are plenty of small shops selling locally made products, clothing, and souvenirs. For more options, residents typically go to neighboring towns. Entertainment in Chalong is low-key, with live music being a favorite among locals and tourists in the cozy restaurants and bars.
Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and Chalong Bay Rum Distillery.
Residents can also indulge in various leisure activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking in the verdant hills. Boating and fishing enthusiasts will find Chalong the place to be. Be aware that flooding occasionally occurs during the monsoon season.
Bang Tao
An up-and-coming beach town located on the northwest coast of Phuket, Bang Tao is considered the more “high-end” destination in Phuket and offers stunning beaches, excellent restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere.
For expats who love water sports like surfing, Bang Tao is paradise. Shopping options in Bang Tao may be limited, with only a few small shops selling locally made products, but residents have more shopping therapy options in nearby towns.
Entertainment in Bang Tao is low-key as well, with dining places and bars offering live music, but locals love it just the way it is. Other popular attractions in or near Bang Tao include the Laguna Phuket Complex, Bang Tao Night Market, Phuket Golf Center, and the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket.
Like many other places in Phuket, housing options are varied in Bang Tao, and you’ll find your fit no matter what your budget and lifestyle preferences may be. Transportation in Bang Tao is easy too, with taxis and tuk-tuks easily available.
Kamala
Kamala is a serene coastal enclave that offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle. With its quiet beaches and upscale residences, Kamala attracts those looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of busier areas.
The town offers a variety of dining options, ranging from local Thai restaurants to international cafés, and is conveniently located near attractions such as the Phuket FantaSea cultural theme park and scenic coastal viewpoints.
Commuting is a breeze with taxis and motorbikes readily available, making Kamala an ideal spot for expats who value both tranquility and convenience.
Surin
Often referred to as “Millionaire’s Row,” Surin exudes a sophisticated vibe with its pristine beach and stylish restaurants. The area is perfect for expats seeking a high-end lifestyle while still embracing the island’s laid-back essence.
Surin’s fine dining, boutique shopping, and vibrant café culture create a hotspot for food enthusiasts and social butterflies alike. Although the upscale ambiance is evident, there are also housing options that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, ensuring that luxury and comfort go hand in hand.
Nai Harn
Although Nai Harn is officially part of the Rawai municipality, its exceptional beach with pristine waters marks it as a distinct area for both expats and locals. Compared to the West Coast, Nai Harn makes an ideal choice for those who want a balance between affordability and a comfortable life.
Expats living here appreciate the tight-knit community and convenient access to outdoor activities, from paddleboarding and snorkeling to exploring nearby nature trails. Nai Harn’s charming local restaurants, cozy cafés, and affordable housing make it a tempting escape from the crowds.
Cherng Talay
Cherng Talay is emerging as a favorite among expats seeking a blend of modern luxury and unspoiled natural surroundings. This up-and-coming neighborhood offers a peaceful, sophisticated retreat just a short drive from Phuket’s busier districts.
Here, sleek villas and contemporary apartments line the streets, complemented by a growing number of chic eateries and boutique shops. It is also home to several world-class resorts and wellness centers, making Cherng Talay an ideal locale for both relaxation and active living.
Layan
For those in search of a more private oasis, Layan offers quiet beaches and lush landscapes that provide an escape from bustling tourist hubs. The area’s distinctly rustic charm is evident in its charming bungalows and eco-friendly resorts scattered along the coastline.
Layan invites residents to embrace outdoor activities like fishing, cycling along scenic coastal paths, and exploring local organic markets. While transportation options may be more limited here, the intimate setting and unparalleled natural beauty make Layan a hidden treasure for expats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-visit beaches in Phuket?
Patong, Kata, Karon, Bang Tao, Mai Khao, and Nai Harn Beach are the stunning beaches on the list. They each have their own unique beauty, but they all share one thing in common: their irresistible allure to both tourists and locals.
Where do most foreigners live in Phuket?
Most foreigners in Phuket live in areas like Phuket Town for convenience, Patong for nightlife, and Kathu for central access. Beachside spots like Kata, Kamala, and Bang Tao are also popular, while Rawai, Chalong, and Thalang attract those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
What is the best time of year to visit Phuket?
For those planning a trip to Phuket, the ideal time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasant. However, this is also the high season, so brace yourself for bigger crowds and higher prices.
What is the local food like in Phuket?
The local cuisine in Phuket is a fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences, with fresh seafood, rice, noodles, and curries being its mainstays. Be sure to try must-have dishes like Tom Yum Goong, Massaman curry, Pad Thai, and Som Tum. If they don’t excite your taste buds, nothing will.
Conclusion
Areas in Phuket like Patong, Kathu, Rawai, Bang Tao, Kamala, and many more will make a wonderful home for expats looking to settle in Thailand. Whether you value tranquility or like the vibrant entertainment scene, the island provides a balance between modern lifestyle and access to nature.
That said, there are also many other places in Thailand that many expats find alluring. So, it pays to do more research before deciding where to settle down. With many other great places in Asia for expats, in the end, you may decide to settle down in some other place altogether!
Whether you will be staying in Thailand or some other place, remember to secure sufficient expat health or international health insurance to ensure access to quality healthcare while you are living abroad.
With 25+ years of experience in insurance, Pacific Prime is well-positioned to tailor a solution that meets your needs and fits your budget, and you can benefit from our advice and support at no extra cost, vis-à-vis going straight to an insurer.
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With her background as an avid traveler and as an exchange student in Spain, Palida values the benefits of insurance and understands the frustrations that may come with making the best decisions for your health and safety in an unknown environment. Here at Pacific Prime, she aspires to create content that will help expats and travelers understand international health insurance with ease.
In her spare time, Palida enjoys reading short stories as much as binging on sitcoms. She is also a self-proclaimed "foodie" with the goal of trying as many cuisines from all over the world as possible. Combining her passion for writing with her love for food, she is an aspiring Google Local Guide reviewer.
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Are there any specific visa challenges or considerations for digital nomads choosing to live in Phuket?
One key visa challenge for digital nomads in Phuket is navigating Thailand’s visa regulations, as there isn’t a specific “digital nomad visa” yet. Many opt for alternatives like the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa, Education Visa, or Tourist Visa with regular renewals, but each comes with restrictions, such as minimum income requirements or limits on length of stay. To avoid complications, digital nomads should carefully research visa options, ensure they meet requirements, and consider working with a local visa agency for assistance.
For tailored guidance on expat health insurance and visa considerations in Thailand, visit our Contact Us page at Pacific Prime!
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