Essence

Mueang Phuket

Mueang Phuket is the island's administrative and cultural center. Phuket Old Town is a photogenic grid of Sino-Portuguese shophouses now housing cafes, galleries, and boutique hotels. The east coast is more local and residential — less scenic than the west coast beaches but dramatically more affordable. It's where most Thai Phuket residents live and work. Phuket Old Town — Colorful architecture, Sunday Walking Street market, local restaurants. Increasingly popular with digital nomads and creatives seeking authentic island living. Rassada / Wichit — Suburban residential areas with malls (Central Phuket), hospitals (Vachira, Mission), and schools. Practical living infrastructure. Rawai / Chalong (southern edge) — Popular expat enclave with local restaurants, pier access to islands, and more affordable villa living. The most affordable part of Phuket. Condos: 40,000–80,000 THB/sqm. Houses: 3–8 million THB. Old Town shophouse conversions are a niche market starting at 5–15 million THB. Rental yields are lower than the west coast but so are entry prices. Best for permanent residents rather than holiday rental investors.