What is a realistic monthly budget to live comfortably in Phuket?

Local markets and street food are the cheapest way to eat well. Cooking at home is not always cheaper here because eating out is so cheap. Electricity from aircon is the surprise cost for a lot of newcomers.

It varies a lot by lifestyle and area. Rent is the biggest factor: a decent one-bed condo is much cheaper in places like Kathu or Chalong than beachfront Bang Tao or Patong. Eating mostly Thai food, using a scooter and living modestly is very affordable; western restaurants, bars and aircon running all day add up quickly. Set your rent first, then budget food, transport and fun on top.