If you have already bought a property in Phuket or are planning to do so in the near future, the question arises about how household issues are arranged for apartment and house owners. Utility costs in Thailand depend on the type of housing, the connection method, and how the facility is used – for living or renting.
Electricity: the main cost point
Electricity is the most significant item of utility costs. The reason is simple: the climate. It is very hot in Thailand, so a significant part of the resource is spent on the stable operation of air conditioners.
In Thailand, electricity is supplied by a state-owned company or private operators in resort areas. The state tariff is 4-6 baht per kWh, but in private settlements the rate may be higher.
In practice, the bills look like this:
- apartment in a condominium – 3,000-6,000 baht per month with regular use of air conditioners;
- villa – significantly higher, especially if there are several floors, a swimming pool, and permanent residents in the house.
For owners who rent out housing, this is an important point: with daily or seasonal rentals, consumption is higher than when the owners stay.
Water
Phuket's water supply can be public or private, depending on the area and housing format. Tariffs are usually in the range of 15-30 baht per cubic meter. In apartments, water costs rarely exceed 300-500 baht per month. In private houses and villas, the bill is higher, as you need to keep an eye on the garden and pool.
A separate point that is important to understand in advance: drinking water does not come from the tap. It is bought separately, in large bottles. Regular delivery is usually used for this purpose. This is a standard practice that both owners and tenants quickly get used to.
Gas: almost not used
There is no centralized gas supply in Thailand. Gas is delivered in cylinders, but it is rarely used in residential complexes and modern projects, most often there are electric stoves. For a home, a 10-15 kg cylinder costs 300-500 baht, and it lasts for a long time in household use for a family.
Internet: stable and accessible
Fiber optic in Phuket is available everywhere, including residential areas. The average cost of unlimited Internet is from 500 baht per month. Popular providers: True, AIS, 3BB. In condominiums, they sometimes offer shared Wi-Fi, but they connect an individual tariff for living and renting – it is more stable and faster. For owners renting out real estate, a good Internet connection has long been a prerequisite, not a bonus.
Cable TV is connected in a package with the Internet, the cost starts from 300 baht. Mobile communication is available from major operators, unlimited Internet tariffs – from 300 baht per month.
When moving to Thailand or buying a home, many consider only the price of the property and taxes. But everyday nuances affect comfort and expenses no less. The rates in houses and condominiums are different, and the conditions are the same, so it's better to understand how it works before you buy.
