Living on an island is a dream for many, and in Phuket, dreams become reality. Here, you’ll find apartments to suit every need: from small budget studios for one person or a couple to luxurious penthouses with prices that reach the sky. In this guide, we’ll explain how to rent apartments in Phuket and make your stay on the island comfortable and safe.
Types of Rental Contracts
The longer the contract, the lower the rental price.
- 1 month – for an extended vacation
- 3 months – for a long vacation or winter stay
- 6 months – for long-term or permanent residence
- 1 year – for permanent residence
We understand how important safety and reliability are when it comes to renting a property. We’ve checked and selected the top 3 rental companies in Phuket so you can confidently find the perfect apartment. Please provide any initial information in the feedback form below, and we’ll forward your request.
To find the best rental option and have a wide selection of good apartments instead of settling for what’s left, it’s best to book accommodation in advance — a few months ahead.
If you’re considering villas, check out our article on Villas Rental.
Which Area to Rent Apartments In
Before renting accommodation, determine the purpose of your stay in Phuket. This will help you choose the right area.
For an Extended Vacation or Winter Stay (Contract up to 3 Months)
If beach relaxation is your priority, choose areas within walking distance to the sea and beaches, especially on the west coast.
Patong is favored by party lovers thanks to the island’s main entertainment street, Bangla Road. It can be quite noisy, so for longer stays, it’s best to look for accommodation on the quiet outskirts of the area.
Karon and Kata offer a wide selection of housing along scenic mountains and beautiful beaches with clean sand. These areas have a beachfront promenade perfect for evening walks.
Nai Harn and Rawai are quieter areas with all the essentials for living, though apartments are somewhat farther from the beaches. Nai Harn also has a picturesque lake, ideal for evening strolls.
Surin and Kamala are northern areas of Phuket with a much calmer atmosphere and fewer tourists. Surin is considered an elite area with luxurious resorts, offering various water activities like fishing and surfing. Kamala is suited for those who enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, with a long beach, shaded areas, open spaces, and a tranquil ambiance.
Bang Tao is a trendy area where you can rent comfortable housing. It stands out with the “Laguna” residential area, which has walking paths, bike trails, a golf course, and a network of canals and lakes. The entire infrastructure is accessible to condominium residents.
For Long-Term Stays with Family and Children (Contract of 6 Months or More)
If you’re moving to the island for a long-term stay with family and children, well-developed infrastructure will be more important than proximity to entertainment and beaches. Choose areas with large supermarkets, kindergartens, schools, bank offices, and hospitals. Suitable areas include Rawai, Nai Harn, and Bang Tao, as described above, as well as:
Chalong. This area has minimal tourist infrastructure but everything needed for long-term living. Chalong also has popular Phuket attractions like the Big Buddha, elephant sanctuaries, and Muay Thai training centers.
Kathu. Located in the central part of the island, this area has a well-developed tourist infrastructure and also includes international schools and large shopping and entertainment centers.
Phuket Town. The most densely populated area with a developed infrastructure. Most educational institutions, banks, offices, and hospitals are located here. Additionally, the area is known for beautiful beaches, cozy parks, and stunning viewpoints.
How to Safely Rent Property in Phuket
When searching for apartments, first check the source you’re using. Rental ads are posted on websites, tourist chats, and social media groups. Although a source may seem reliable, it could actually be a scam. Fraudsters skillfully create fake websites with apartment photos, communicate convincingly, send videos, and then disappear after receiving a deposit.
We understand how important safety and reliability are when it comes to renting a property. We’ve checked and selected the top 3 rental companies in Phuket so you can confidently find the perfect apartment. Please provide any initial information in the feedback form below, and we’ll forward your request.
You won’t encounter scammers if you work directly with a realtor in Phuket, but this option is best suited for those already on the island who can view apartments in person. If you’re searching for accommodation in advance, use our recommended services and rest assured about your safety.
Issues with landlords can also arise when making a deposit and advance payment. Some unscrupulous landlords may try to find reasons not to return the deposit upon checkout. Avoid unpleasant situations by choosing reliable sources for apartment rentals.
Since Phuket is an exotic island, insects and reptiles sometimes enter homes. If you prefer to avoid unexpected encounters, we recommend renting apartments rather than villas. In the resort areas and high-rise buildings, you’ll encounter much less wildlife.
We hope that with our recommendations, you’ll find the perfect accommodation where you’ll feel comfortable and safe.
If you decide to purchase an apartment in Phuket, read our article explaining the buying process, along with our recommended companies that can assist with this.