Discover life on Koh Samui with a budget of THB50,000 per month amidst clear seas, white sand beaches, and complete amenities. Let’s see what life on Koh Samui is like, what the cost of living is, and how the quality of life fares.
Most people fall in love with living amidst the sound of waves hitting the shore, breathing fresh air surrounded by beautiful islands, clear sea, and a lifestyle free from the hustle and bustle of big cities, yet still having some conveniences.
If this lifestyle is what you’re looking for, “Koh Samui” might be the answer you seek. More importantly, you can make this dream a reality with just a monthly budget of THB50,000.
The remote island of Koh Samui might sound exciting and challenging for many wondering if they could live on an island far from the city. But don’t worry, I’ll take you to explore every nook of this island, from the cost of living to social life, to give you a full picture and help you decide if Koh Samui is where you want to live.
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Contents
- Key takeaways
- About Koh Samui
- Quality of Life
- Cost of Living
- Rent
- Food
- Transportation
- Long-distance Travel
- Health and Fitness
- Social Life
- Activities
- Shopping
- Nightlife
- Education and Family Life
- Job Opportunities
- Weather
- Air quality
- Flooding
- Popular Areas
- Lifestyle with a Budget of THB50,000 per Month
- Should You Live on Koh Samui?
- Living on Koh Samui vs Phuket
- Living on Koh Samui vs. Koh Phi Phi
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Key takeaways
- Koh Samui is perfect for those looking to live a slow-paced life close to nature, but still with all the conveniences.
- A budget of THB50,000 per month is enough to live comfortably.
- There’s plenty of food, especially high-quality international cuisine, thanks to many retired chefs living here.
- The most cost-effective way to get around is to rent a motorcycle, but traveling off the island is quite challenging due to high airfare prices.
- For healthcare, there are private hospitals that meet international standards and public hospitals offering basic services.
- Koh Samui has a large expat community, making it easy to make new friends and establish a network.
- Koh Samui is ideal for digital nomads, families, retirees and those looking for a quality life in a more peaceful setting than big cities.
About Koh Samui
First, let’s get to know Koh Samui a little. It’s Thailand’s third-largest island, located in the Gulf of Thailand in Surat Thani Province, about 84 kilometers from Surat Thani. It’s known as “The paradise in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is known for white sands, clean beach, palm trees, and beautiful nature. It’s no wonder that Ko Samui has become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations in Thailand.
Ko Samui stands out with its natural attractions such as Chaweng Beach which is a top favorite beach with clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports. Lamai Beach features the unique Grandfather and Grandmother rocks that visitors love to photograph, along with Lad Koh Viewpoint which offers beautiful views of the sea and mountains.
Additionally, the island is equipped with hotel-level amenities, resorts, spas, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a beloved destination for both locals and expats who often return and eventually decide to move to the island.
Quality of Life
Living on Ko Samui differs from life in a city full of rush and pollution. Here, you’ll find a simpler life, friendly people, pure air, and stunning nature all around you. The quality of life on Ko Samui is excellent. Especially if you’re a nature lover and enjoy outdoor activities. Every morning, you can wake up to stunning sea views or take an easy stroll on soft sandy beaches. Waking up to enjoy a cup of coffee by the beach is always an option too.
Life on Koh Samui is pretty convenient because it has plenty of facilities. There are malls, convenience stores, restaurants, and getting around is easy since you can have a car pick you up right at your doorstep.
Koh Samui is a gathering place for people from all over the world. Coming here, you might meet people from many nations and easily form new friendships. Of course, island living has some limitations, like accessing certain goods and services which might have fewer options than in big cities.
But for most people who choose to live here, the perks comfortably outweigh those limitations.
Cost of Living
Of course, when we go to live on an island, the cost of living is undoubtedly higher than living on the mainland. The cost of living on Koh Samui is among the highest in Thailand, yet still within reach.
If you’ve got a budget of THB50,000 a month, you can live comfortably on Koh Samui with a good quality of life. This price suits expats willing to pay more than locals, as it offers convenience and comprehensive services.
The cost of living on Koh Samui varies depending on lifestyle, but overall it’s reasonable and noticeably cheaper than major tourist cities like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi.
- Rent: A quality one-bedroom apartment or condo costs around THB20,000-THB30,000 per month. A mid to high-grade house or villa starts at THB30,000-THB50,000 per month, depending on location and furnishings.
- Food: Local or street food costs about THB80-THB150 per meal. A typical mid-range restaurant is THB150-THB300 per meal, while international or expat-targeted restaurants are THB300-600 per meal. Total food expenses are around THB9,000-THB15,000 per month, depending on frequency and dining style.
- Transportation: Renting a good quality motorbike costs about THB3,500-THB5,000 per month. If you use a local pickup truck (songthaew) or taxi, expect to pay THB100-THB300 per trip.
- Utilities: Electricity, water, and high-speed internet cost around THB3,500-THB5,000 per month. Good internet is priced around THB600
- Health insurance: Health insurance for expats seeking good coverage starts at around THB3,000-THB8,000 per month. Private hospital treatment typically costs THB2,000-THB4,000 per visit.
- Entertainment and activities: Fitness membership, watching Muay Thai, or other outdoor activities cost about THB1,500-THB3,500 per month. Average drink or bar cost per glass is THB80-THB150.
Total monthly expenses: For expats, the initial monthly expenses on Koh Samui should be approximately THB40,000 – THB55,000.
This budget is suitable for those who want convenience and comprehensive services in a good location on Koh Samui without having to save too much, allowing you to enjoy various activities comfortably. However, if you want a better accommodation, have extra travel budget, or dine out frequently, you should have more than this per month.
Another thing is that Samui is a large island with a lot of locals. If you can speak some Thai and adapt to living like the locals, the cost of living can decrease quite a bit.
Rent
Rent will be your biggest expense, so choosing the right accommodation is crucial to keeping your budget within THB50,000 per month.
Condo/Apartment
You can rent a condo/apartment in Koh Samui for around THB10,000 to THB25,000 per month. Within this budget, you can find a studio condo or apartment or a 1-bedroom with basic amenities like air conditioning, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Some places may offer a communal pool for around THB10,000-THB18,000 per month.
The further you are from major tourist areas like Chaweng or Lamai, the cheaper the price will be, such as in areas like Bophut, Maenam, or Bangrak.
Since Samui is an island located quite a distance from the mainland, condos here aren’t as high as those in Phuket or other big cities. They are more like low-rise condos that feel more like apartments.
Townhouse/Small Detached House
It’s possible to find a small townhouse or detached house with a budget of THB15,000 – THB30,000 per month.
It might take some effort and be outside the main tourist areas, but it’s possible. You may need to slightly increase other budgets or choose a home that might be a bit older but still structurally sound. You could get a 1-2 bedroom house with more living space than a condo.
Large Single House
If you plan to rent a large single house, you should expect to pay at least THB30,000/month. For example, renting a large single house with a private pool may exceed 50,000 THB.
Food
One of the pleasures of living in Thailand is the delicious and affordable food, and Koh Samui is no different. You can eat well within a limited budget.
Local Food
You can find delicious Thai food at local restaurants, street food stalls, or various markets. Dishes like fried rice, green curry, basil stir-fry, or a large bowl of noodles start at just THB50-THB80. Eating local food regularly can save a lot on the budget.
Of course, if you go to tourist areas, the prices will be higher, reaching around THB100-THB150 per meal.
International Dish
One of the highlights of Koh Samui is its international dish, because many expats love to retire here. Some are even chefs. So, along the night walking streets, there are a lot of chefs selling delicious food at affordable prices. I still remember the BBQ pork ribs I had while in Samui. They were the best I’ve ever had in Thailand.
Moreover, Koh Samui offers a variety of international restaurants catering to tourists and expats. Whether it’s Italian, Japanese, Indian, French, or Western cuisine, these places are usually located in popular areas like Chaweng Beach and Bophut. The typical price for an international meal on Koh Samui ranges from THB200-THB500 per meal.
Cafés
Koh Samui has charming cafés with great atmospheres. They are perfect for working, sipping coffee, or meeting friends. A good cup of coffee costs around THB80-THB120.
Supermarkets
On Koh Samui, there are large supermarkets like Lotus’s, Big C, Makro and Tops Market offering a variety of Thai and imported products, as well as local fresh markets like Lamai Fresh Market where you can buy fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and seafood at much cheaper prices.
If you’re looking for international ingredients, there are shops on Koh Samui like Samui Gourmet selling cheese, ham, sausages, beef, hamburgers, sandwiches, and a wide range of imported ingredients.
However, being an island means the selection isn’t as varied as mainland cities, and some things can be more expensive.
Transportation
There are several options for getting around Koh Samui, but the most popular and economical choice is a motorcycle.
Motorcycle
If you’re really planning to stay on Koh Samui, I recommend renting a motorcycle. Renting a motorcycle is the most cost-effective way to get around the island, giving you the freedom to travel as you please and access various places comfortably.
Monthly rental is much cheaper than daily rental, costing about THB2,500 – THB4,000/month + fuel THB500 – THB1,000/month. But if you’re staying long-term, investing in buying your own motorcycle might be more worthwhile, costing around THB30,000-THB50,000.
Caution: Riding a motorcycle on Koh Samui is quite easy. The roads are good around most of the island, with few steep parts, so you can cruise around comfortably. However, always exercise caution, wear a helmet, and be mindful of the traffic.Don’t forget to get a motorcycle license as well.
Ride-hailing apps
There are ride-hailing services available through apps like Grab or InDrive, but they are not as widespread as in larger cities, and the fees don’t differ much between apps.
Taxis
Personally, I don’t recommend taking taxis on Koh Samui because they are generally expensive compared to other places in Thailand, and sometimes the drivers quote high prices.
Songthaews
Songthaews are local public vehicles that run around the island along main routes. The fare depends on the distance and time (it may be more expensive at night). It’s a budget-friendly option if you don’t have a motorcycle. Prices range from THB50 – THB200 per trip.
Car
If you want to drive a car, I recommend renting one instead. Most people don’t stay on Koh Samui for long because it’s an island that might not have much to do, and traveling to other provinces takes quite a bit of time. So, many don’t stay here long, making selling a car quite a hassle.
Renting a car is a more convenient and cost-effective choice. The rental prices for small to large cars range from about THB600-THB3,500 per day.
Walking/Bicycling
Walking or biking is possible for short distances or in certain areas. However, since Samui is a relatively large island with hills, this method might only be suitable for quick trips nearby.
Long-distance Travel
One of the main downsides of living on Koh Samui is getting to other places. Even though Samui has Samui International Airport (USM) which has direct flights to Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, and Malaysia, the ticket prices are very high, sometimes even more expensive than flying abroad, because the airport is owned by Bangkok Airways.
So, besides flying, when wanting to travel off Koh Samui, people often opt for more budget-friendly methods by taking a ferry (like Raja Ferry, Lomprayah) to the Surat Thani mainland, then continue by bus or train to other destinations like Bangkok or nearby provinces.
Or travel to Surat Thani Airport to catch a connecting flight to other provinces.
Health and Fitness
Koh Samui is a paradise for health enthusiasts and fitness lovers, offering a multitude of gyms and outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the island’s hospitals are well-prepared to handle all healthcare needs, from basic care to specialized, professional treatments.
Hospitals
The main public hospital is Samui Hospital This spot is ideal for those seeking affordable treatment, with general and emergency medical services, including maternity care and basic illness treatments. While it might not match the luxury or comfort of private hospitals, it meets standards and is quite comprehensive for locals and tourists without health insurance.
Although it’s a public hospital, it offers comprehensive care. However, due to high demand, you might have to wait a long time.
The most popular private hospital is Bangkok Samui Hospital located in the Bophut area, is a hospital with international standards, with a team of doctors and staff who speak excellent English. It offers full facilities and hotel-like services, such as private rooms with air conditioning, TV, and special meal plans. Treatment costs are much higher than public hospitals. It’s only suitable for those with health insurance or those ready to pay for comfort and convenience.
Besides Bangkok Samui Hospital, there is also Samui Wattanapat Hospital located in Bophut sub-district is a medium-sized private hospital with about 53 beds. This hospital meets JCI (Joint Commission International) standards and provides good quality care, though it’s not very large and might not have specialists available at all times.
On Koh Samui, there are pharmacies and general clinics offering friendly and accessible services, such as Samui Home Pharmacy located near the Bophut intersection, or The Pharmacy Samui. In the Chaweng area, there are several general clinics on Koh Samui that cater to basic medical needs and general health care. Most pharmacies here speak English.
Exercise
Koh Samui is a paradise for outdoor exercise lovers. You can run along the beach, swim in the sea, hike, climb, or cycle around the island for free. There are also many gyms and fitness centers offering reasonably priced services, with monthly memberships around THB1,000-THB2,500.
Notable places include Lamai Fitness A fully-equipped gym near Lamai Beach or Success Gym. A popular gym in the Bophut area with a full range of equipment. There are also plenty of yoga studios and Muay Thai camps to choose from.
Social Life
The social life on Koh Samui is where you’ll find people from all over the world, especially Digital Nomads, retirees settling here, and younger folks looking for a ‘slow-life’ place with all the modern comforts.
There are over 12,000 expats on Koh Samui. To find international friends, you can join the online community Samui Expats, a social group organizing parties, charity events, and activities to foster relationships between Thais and foreigners. Meetup groups also host activities like fitness, events, and niche interest groups.
Most people you’ll meet here tend to be those looking for a peaceful, simple life on an island.
Activities
Koh Samui offers a variety of activities to choose from, both relaxing and active, suitable for every lifestyle. Start with a stroll on the white sandy beaches with clear water, like Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach. Some people like to go snorkeling or scuba diving to see the colorful corals and marine life around the island.
Additionally, there are water activities such as kayaking or jet skiing. Nature enthusiasts can hike to see nature, waterfalls, and beautiful viewpoints on the island. There’s also natural reserves and mysterious gardens like Tan Nimh Magic Garden filled with unique art sculptures. The refreshing Namuang Waterfall where you can swim, and the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks with unique shapes by the sea, which are popular photo spots.
Additionally, there are small islands around such as Koh Phan and Koh Matsum which are must-visit spots for island hopping and snorkeling, adding natural joy and fun activities to life on Koh Samui that shouldn’t be missed.
Shopping
On Koh Samui, there are diverse markets and shopping spots to choose from, whether you want to soak up the local vibe or find souvenirs to take home. Starting with Nathon Market. This is a classic local market with fresh produce, seasonal fruits and veggies, local food, and a wide choice of affordable goods.
For those who love an evening stroll, don’t miss the Chaweng Night Market, which is a lively spot with restaurants, souvenirs, clothes, artsy home decor, and local handmade items. Additionally, there are small malls and various shops in Bo Phut town, convenient for those into brand names and general goods, including supermarkets selling imported items and fresh produce.
There’s also a big mall, Central Samui, that makes shopping on Koh Samui fun and easy to match everyone’s style.
Nightlife
Koh Samui offers a diverse nightlife to suit both party-goers and those looking for a chill vibe. Start at Chaweng Beach, the nightlife hub, with famous clubs and bars like Green Mango Club, perfect for an epic dance, Ark Bar, a beachfront club with lively parties and fire shows, and Hush Bar.
For those who like bars with a relaxed atmosphere, if you’re looking for a romantic or laid-back vibe, the areas of Bo Phut Beach and Lamai Beach offer plenty of beachfront bars to choose from, like Coco Tam’s a beautiful seaside bar where you can comfortably watch the sunset. Additionally, there are other bars and clubs scattered across the island to match your taste, making the nightlife on Koh Samui full of color and fun that’s always in vogue.
Education and Family Life
Living with a family on Koh Samui is considered comfortable and ideal for expats, thanks to its chilled atmosphere, tranquility, and safety, along with family-friendly amenities.
Education
Most schools on Koh Samui are international schools with standard curricula, such as International School of Samui, Lamai International School and Tree Yard International School which focus on comprehensive child skill development and provide an environment conducive to learning.
They also support building relationships within the international family community, making them ideal for parents who want their children to learn in a diverse multicultural and linguistic environment.
Family Life
Koh Samui offers a calm, clean, and safe atmosphere, making it an ideal place to raise children in a friendly environment. Expats often choose to stay in houses or villas with spacious areas for kids to play and spend time doing outdoor activities like going to the beach, swimming, diving, or hiking.
In addition, there are international schools supporting children’s education, a strong and friendly expat community that aids families with social and everyday life information, as well as high-standard health services and private hospitals. This ensures expat families in Koh Samui enjoy a good quality of life and happiness in a slow-life style.
Job Opportunities
Finding regular jobs for expats on Koh Samui might not be easy due to regulations on work permits and high competition. However, there are opportunities in the tourism sector, such as hotels, restaurants, or diving companies, which often hire people with special skills or native English speakers. There’s also the option to become an English teacher.
Additionally, Samui is also a hub for digital nomads who can work online from anywhere on the island with a reasonable cost of living and reliable internet. If you have some capital, starting your own business like a restaurant, café, or travel service can be an appealing option.
However, you must be cautious about the process of obtaining the correct visa and work permit which can be quite complex and time-consuming. Plan carefully and have all your documents ready to ensure a smooth working experience in Thailand.
Weather
The weather on Koh Samui is tropical with quite humid and warm conditions throughout the year. From September to November, it’s usually the rainy season with occasional showers and strong winds on some days. The general temperature hovers around 29°C, though it might rise higher during the day.
Even though there are rainy and cloudy days, there are still some sunny spells, perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing atmosphere and a true tropical nature experience.
Air quality
Because Samui is an island, Koh Samui generally has good air quality, and air pollution (PM2.5) levels are safe for most of the population. The Air Quality Index (AQI) typically ranges from moderate to good, making Koh Samui overall a place with fresh air that’s perfect for a laid-back lifestyle.
Flooding
Overall, Koh Samui doesn’t experience frequent or severe flooding like some areas, especially during the rainy season from September to November. It rains occasionally, which might cause water to pool in small road areas, but it doesn’t impact daily life.
Locals and authorities are always prepared with measures in place, ensuring life on the island remains normal and smooth for residents.
Popular Areas
Koh Samui offers many popular areas catering to different lifestyles, both on and off the island.
Central Island/Around the Island
It’s around Chaweng Beach. This area is known for fun and nightlife, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. It’s perfect for those who love a vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, Lamai Beach is quieter, ideal for relaxation while still offering water activities and markets to explore. Around the island, there are interesting spots like Na Muang Waterfall, Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks, and Big Buddha Temple, which are great for exploring nature and culture.
If you’re thinking about trying life on Koh Samui, I recommend staying around here because it’s fully convenient, making it easy to adjust.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is not far from Koh Samui, famous for the Full Moon Party and beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for party enthusiasts, but the cost of living is slightly higher than on Samui.
Suburban/Rural Area
The rural areas of Koh Samui are located about 5-15 kilometers away from the island’s center or major tourist spots. The main road circling the island covers a distance of approximately 50 kilometers, featuring agricultural and natural communities with rubber plantations, rice fields, waterfalls, and forests.
In this area, I don’t highly recommend living, unless you have a Thai family. Although it has a very simple and peaceful atmosphere, the transportation isn’t very convenient, and there aren’t many amenities.
Lifestyle with a Budget of THB50,000 per Month
Let’s look at an example of how to allocate a budget of THB50,000 per month (these numbers are approximate and can be adjusted according to your lifestyle).
- Rent (1-bedroom condo/apartment) THB15,000
- Utilities (Electricity, water, internet) THB3,000
- Transportation (Motorbike rental + fuel) THB4,000
- Food (Mainly local food, occasionally cooking) THB10,000
- Personal/entertainment expenses (Coffee, light gatherings, activities) THB10,000
- Emergency/other expenses THB8,000
Total budget THB50,000
As you can see, you can have a great life on Koh Samui with this budget. The key is to choose suitable accommodation and spend according to your budget.
Should You Live on Koh Samui?
If you’re looking for a relaxing lifestyle close to nature, but with all the conveniences, Koh Samui is the perfect answer. Here, you can enjoy clear seas, white sandy beaches, and listen to the soothing sounds of the waves and sea breeze that recharge your life every day.
Whether exercising on the beach, snorkeling, or just strolling to watch a romantic sunset, there’s something for everyone. Plus, there’s a community of expats mixed with warm and welcoming locals, making it feel less lonely even when relocating abroad.
Additionally, there are plenty of job opportunities for digital nomads or those who enjoy a free-spirited lifestyle. Most importantly, the warm and humid climate all year round and good air quality make Samui an ideal spot for both relaxation and a new living base that fits every lifestyle. In summary, this place offers more than just beautiful natural scenery; it promises a quality life that makes every day on Koh Samui truly happy and fulfilling.
Pros
- Stunning natural views, clear seas, white sandy beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere suitable for relaxation and living a slow-paced life
- Good quality of life, fresh air, less air pollution compared to the mainland
- Fully equipped facilities like malls, supermarkets, restaurants, and hospitals
- There are high-standard private hospitals (Bangkok Hospital Samui, Wattanapat Samui) and a public hospital for budget-friendly options
- Expenses of THB50,000/month are enough for expats to live comfortably without having to be too frugal
- Delicious food, both cheap local dishes and high-quality international cuisine
- Overall cost of living is cheaper than in Phuket and Koh Phi Phi
- Large expat community
- There are international schools and a safe environment
Cons
- Cost of living is higher than on the mainland, and many imports are more expensive than usual
- Airfare from Samui to elsewhere is high because the airport is owned by Bangkok Airways
- Some goods and services options are limited, not as diverse as in bigger cities
- Taxi fares are expensive, sometimes overcharged, and there aren’t many public transport options
- Limited activities available, so most expats usually stay only a few years
Living on Koh Samui vs Phuket
Although both are islands, life on Koh Samui is entirely different from Phuket
Koh Samui is suitable for those who want a peaceful lifestyle without much activity or fuss But Phuket is much busier But it’s much more convenient for travel and has way more activities to do.
Living on Koh Samui vs. Koh Phi Phi
Compared to Koh Phi Phi, I’d say it’s not exactly ideal for long-term living, even though it boasts some of Thailand’s most stunning beaches. The island’s relatively small size doesn’t offer much in terms of activities, and it’s swarming with tourists.
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