With its year-round tropical climate, flexible tax system and strong tourist appeal, Thailand remains a prime destination for property investors. Among the most sought-after islands, two stand out: Koh Samui and Phuket. But which one should you choose for your project?
What types of property are available in Koh Samui and Phuket?
Koh Samui: villas and natural charm
Koh Samui has a more peaceful atmosphere, with lush vegetation and breathtaking sea views. The real estate on offer consists mainly of :
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Detached villas with swimming pools, often on hilltops
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Bungalows and charming houses
- New or completed residences of affordable villas
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Building plots for customized projects
- Luxury villas with sea views
Koh Samui is an ideal destination for investors looking for an exceptional property, or for people with a mixed project: living on the island part of the year and renting out the rest of the time.
Phuket: variety and dynamism
Phuket is more developed and cosmopolitan. The island offers a wide range of properties:
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Modern condominiums (very popular for vacation rentals)
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Serviced real estate projects
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Urban apartments in the city center
- Luxury villas
Phuket is ideally suited to profiles looking for year-round rental profitability or turnkey projects, as well as to those seeking exceptional properties.
Price per square metre: how much will real estate cost in Thailand in 2025?
Here’s an overview of average prices in 2025. Please note that prices vary greatly depending on location (proximity to beach, sea view, tourist area or not).
| Property type | Koh Samui (€/sqm) | Phuket (€/sqm) |
|---|---|---|
| Condo / apartment | 1 800 – 3 500 € | 2 200 – 4 500 € |
| Mid-range villa | 2 200 – 3 800 € | 2 800 – 4 800 € |
| Luxury villa / sea view | 3 800 – 6 500 €+ | 4 000 – 8 000 €+ |
(sources: C9 Hotelworks, Bamboo Routes, Conrad Properties, Asia Property Awards)
Rental potential and tourist numbers
Koh Samui: seasonal appeal
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High season: December to April
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Clientele: Europeans, families, couples looking for peace and quiet
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Rental types: serviced villas or charming rentals
✅ Less competition, but also greater seasonality.
Phuket: year-round tourism
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More constant attendance
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Easy access thanks to its international airport
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Very popular on Airbnb-type platforms
✅ More popular destination, but tougher competition.
Where to invest according to your profile
In terms of investment opportunities, Phuket and Koh Samui present two different offerings.
Phuket has the advantage of offering a wide range of fully foreign-owned condominiums, managed by hotel management companies. So, if you’re looking for a freehold property, it’s advisable to look for a condominium in Phuket. However, as the market is denser than Koh Samui, prices per square meter are higher. If you’re looking for a villa, you’ll need a budget of at least €400,000.
Phuket is therefore ideal for “pure” investors looking for a rental yield, thanks to the offer available in Condominium residences with integrated hotel management. Those with a budget in excess of €400,000 can also enjoy high-standard villas with exceptional views and exclusive services.
Koh Samui is a “quieter” destination, with a wide range of villas from €200,000 upwards, suitable for expatriates living in peaceful surroundings all year round. Those wishing to combine investment and vacation will find what they’re looking for on this island popular with Europeans. The real estate market is less mature than in Phuket, but the island is developing and prices are rising steadily, offering good potential for capital gains.
Koh Samui is the perfect compromise between holiday and investment. Rental yields remain very attractive on villas managed by a professional manager, and you often have the freedom to enjoy them for one or more months a year if you wish.
Do you have questions or a project to buy in Phuket or Koh Samui? Ask to be called back free of charge by one of our advisors at a time that suits you.
