Foreign Residents in Phuket: A Snapshot of the Expat Community

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is not only a premier tourist destination but also a vibrant home to a diverse expatriate community.

As of 2023, Phuket’s total population is around 424,000—and about 20% of that is made up of foreigners. That’s a pretty impressive slice of paradise claimed by people from all over the world. Whether it’s for retirement, remote work, business, or simply chasing the island life, expats are settling in and calling Phuket home.

Where Are Phuket's Expats From?

Phuket’s expat scene is a colorful patchwork of nationalities. Here are some of the top groups making up the foreign community:

• Russia: Russians have had a long-standing love affair with Phuket. Many come for the weather, the lifestyle, and increasingly, the property investment opportunities.

• China: Chinese residents are growing in number too—many initially visit as tourists, then come back to invest, start businesses, or just soak up the sun long-term.

• Western Expats: Brits, Aussies, Germans, and Americans are among the most common westerners on the island. Retirees love the affordability, while remote workers appreciate the slower pace of life and great Wi-Fi (plus, let’s be honest, the beach views don’t hurt).

• Neighbours from Southeast Asia: A large number of expats also come from nearby countries like Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos—many of whom work in local industries and help keep Phuket running smoothly.

  
  

Why People Stay

It’s not just about the beaches—though those help. Expats in Phuket enjoy a warm, welcoming community, access to international schools and hospitals, modern amenities, and endless sunshine. Plus, the cost of living is far lower than in many Western countries, especially if you love street food and fresh coconuts.

Whether you're dreaming of beachfront living, starting a new business, or just want to swap your 9-to-5 for island time, Phuket is one of the most inviting places to do it. With such a global mix of people already here, you're sure to find your crowd—and maybe even a few new favorite dishes too.

Thinking about making the move? Phuket’s expat community is ready to welcome you.

If you want to explore Phuket investment properties, we can help you. APW Group was founded by expats, for expats; building upon over 30 years of experience in property and fixed income investments.

Our team brings real, on-the-ground experience in Thailand’s property market—guiding you through everything from discovering the perfect home to securing visas and navigating local laws with confidence. We have helped over 6,000 expats progress their property portfolio in cities all over the world, including Phuket, Bali, Dubai and the UK, just to name a few.

Please get in touch to discuss your property goals with one of our experts.