Living in Phuket in 2025: The Honest Pros and Cons

Living in Phuket in 2025: The Good, The Bad, and The Beautiful

There’s no easy way to say it — a lot of folks from Europe, the US, and the UK are feeling the heat right now. Soaring living costs, rising taxes, social unrest — you name it. It’s no wonder more and more people are casting their eyes toward tropical shores, searching for something simpler, warmer, and maybe even a little happier.

That brings us to Phuket. If you’ve been flirting with the idea of ditching the grind and moving to Thailand’s largest island, this little write-up is for you. I’ve been living here for over a decade and I’ve seen the island shift and evolve — sometimes for the better, sometimes not. So let’s break it down: five pros and five cons of living in Phuket in 2025.

🌴 PRO #1: Nature That'll Ruin You for Anywhere Else

Let’s start with the obvious — Phuket’s natural beauty. We’re talking 30+ beaches, each with its own vibe. You’ve got party-central Patong, family-friendly Kata, the upscale calm of Bang Tao, and the quiet serenity of Nai Yang up north. But beyond the beaches, there are jungle trails, waterfalls, national parks, and even a few hidden lagoons if you’re up for an adventure.

Nature is your playground here, whether you’re paddleboarding at sunrise or hiking through lush green hills before the rain sets in.

🚗 CON #1: Traffic Can Be a Beast

More people, more cars. Simple math. Traffic congestion is one of the top complaints on the island, especially around hotspots like Boat Avenue or Chalong Circle during rush hours. If you’re in a car at 6pm on a Friday in Bang Tao? Good luck. That said, locals have learned the backroads, and if you’re comfortable on a motorbike (safely!), you can zip through most of it.

There’s talk of a new bypass from the airport to Patong — whether that sees the light of day anytime soon is anyone’s guess.

🌍 PRO #2: International Living Without the Stress

Phuket may be a Thai island, but it runs with a global flavor. You’ll find world-class hospitals, a growing list of international schools, high-end grocery stores, and even luxury cinemas where you can catch the latest release with a cocktail in hand. Feel like dining at a beach shack one day and a Michelin-star restaurant the next? You can.

Living here lets you toggle between laid-back Thai culture and an upscale international lifestyle — without the big-city stress.

🚌 CON #2: Public Transport is...Not Really a Thing

Getting around can be a challenge if you don’t drive. There are a few colorful songthaews (local buses), and app-based taxis like Grab or Bolt are available — but they’re not exactly budget-friendly. There's no metro or train system like in Bangkok, and tuk-tuks often charge “tourist prices.” If you’re planning a long-term stay, renting or buying a car is highly recommended.

💸 PRO #3: Cost of Living That Makes Sense

While Phuket is pricier than, say, Chiang Mai or Isaan, it still offers far better value than most Western cities. Whether your budget is modest or luxe, you can find a lifestyle that fits. Some people live very well here on under $2,000 a month, especially if they enjoy local food and modest housing. Others might splurge on villas, golf memberships, and high-end brunches.

Whatever your pace, your dollar stretches a lot further than back home — especially if you avoid the tourist traps.

🌧️ CON #3: When It Rains, It Pours (Literally)

Welcome to monsoon season. Between May and October, Phuket sees heavy rainfall, and occasional flash flooding is something to be aware of. Last year saw serious flooding in areas like Kamala and Pasak. If you’re thinking of buying property, flood-risk should be on your checklist.

That said, those tropical downpours come with the territory — and they make the greenery even more lush.

🏘️ PRO #4: Real Estate is Hot (In a Good Way)

Phuket's property market is booming, and it’s easy to see why. Compared to cities like London or New York, you can buy a luxury villa or a sea-view condo for a fraction of the cost. Rental yields here can be attractive, especially with the island’s growing appeal to tourists and expats alike. Developers are rolling out stylish projects left and right, especially in areas like Layan, Rawai, and Cherngtalay.

Just do your homework, and work with a reputable agent — the market’s hot, but it’s still Thailand, and things can get murky without due diligence.

💼 CON #4: Don't Expect to Find a Job Easily

If you’re planning to move here without remote work or savings, be cautious. Employment laws are strict — many jobs are reserved for Thai nationals. Most foreigners here are online entrepreneurs, teachers, or in the property industry. If you’re not bringing your own income stream, it’s going to be a challenge.

It’s not the kind of place where you can wander into a bar and land a gig behind the counter. So bring a plan, and ideally, a buffer fund.

🧘‍♀️ PRO #5: Peace of Mind (and Politics)

It’s not just about sunshine and smoothies. Many expats here say one of the best parts of Phuket is being removed from the political and social drama happening back home. While no place is perfect, there’s a distinct shift in mindset here. People are generally relaxed. Happy, even. Life moves at a slower, more intentional pace.

And honestly, sometimes it just feels good to not be bombarded by the 24/7 news cycle of doom.

🛫 CON #5: It's a Long Way From Home

This is the emotional one. Phuket is paradise, yes — but it’s far from Europe or the Americas. If you have aging parents or a close-knit circle back home, the distance can be tough. Flights are long, and expensive around holidays. Being away during family milestones or emergencies is a real downside.

But for many of us, the benefits still outweigh that cost.

So there it is — a real look at the highs and lows of living in Phuket in 2025. No sugarcoating. It’s not for everyone, but for many, it’s an island escape that just makes sense.