Long-term rental in Phuket 2026: prices by area and the contract
What renting an apartment or villa in Phuket costs monthly and yearly in 2026: prices by area, deposit, utilities, contract and landlord checks. For expats and long-stayers.
Updated: 2026-03-10 · 10 min read · AURA Phuket
Long-term rental in Phuket costs a fraction of nightly rates, but the rules differ: price depends on the season, the meters and how carefully you read the contract.
Key facts
- A condo studio runs about 15,000–25,000 ฿ a month, a one-bedroom 20,000–40,000 ฿.
- A 2–3 bedroom pool villa starts at 60,000–120,000 ฿ a month depending on the area.
- A yearly contract is 20–40% cheaper than monthly; high season (December–February) costs the most.
- The standard deposit is two months’ rent plus one month upfront.
- Electricity is metered at 4–8 ฿ per kWh, and air conditioning is the main cost driver.
Prices by area in 2026
- Rawai and Nai Harn — the calm south, many expat families, studios from 15,000 ฿.
- Chalong and Kathu — cheaper and closer to the island centre, easy on a scooter.
- Phuket Town — city life, cafes and schools, mid-range prices, the sea further away.
- Bang Tao and Laguna — premium, new condos and villas, 30–50% more expensive.
- Kamala and Surin — quiet luxury and villas, the highest tickets.
- Patong — short lets and noise; rarely chosen for living.
Seasonality: why the same flat has two prices
In high season (roughly December to February) owners earn from nightly lets, so monthly prices rise and choice shrinks. In the green season (May–October) the same units go 20–40% cheaper and owners negotiate more willingly. A 6–12 month contract almost always beats rolling monthly renewals.
Deposit, bills and what is included
- The deposit is usually two months on a yearly contract and one month on a monthly one.
- Electricity and water are nearly always extra and metered; internet is often included.
- The condo common fee is usually paid by the owner on a rental — confirm it.
- Cleaning and linen are typically an add-on in condos and an arrangement with the owner in villas.
- Ask for the meter readings on move-in day to be written into the contract.
How to check the landlord and the unit
- Ask for the title document and the owner’s passport — the names must match the contract.
- If an agent lets it, check the power of attorney and pay to the owner’s account.
- Inspect the place in person or on a live video call, not from listing photos.
- Test the air conditioners, water pressure, internet and check for damp — critical in the rainy season.
- Confirm the building rules: pets, guests, parking, pool.
TM30 and address registration
The owner or management company must file a TM30 notification of your address. That document is requested for visa extensions, a driving licence and at the bank, so agree on it in advance and keep the confirmation. A good landlord files it without being asked.
Cleaning, aircon and home services
Frequently asked questions
How much is a monthly apartment rental in Phuket?
A condo studio typically costs 15,000–25,000 ฿ a month and a one-bedroom 20,000–40,000 ฿. Prices rise in high season, while the same units go noticeably cheaper in the green season.
What deposit is required for a long-term rental?
Usually two months’ rent plus the first month upfront on a yearly contract. The deposit is returned on move-out minus bills and documented damage — so record the condition with photos and video.
How much is electricity in Phuket?
The rate averages 4–8 ฿ per kWh. With air conditioning running in one room, expect roughly 2,000–4,000 ฿ a month; a pool villa bill is far higher.
Can I rent a Phuket home remotely?
Yes, but only with a live video walkthrough, the owner’s documents and a contract before payment. Never wire a prepayment without a contract and proof of ownership.