Utilities in Phuket: electricity, water and internet costs

«Rent 15,000 THB» is not the full price of living in Phuket — utilities arrive on top, and one line item dominates.

Electricity — the big one

The government rate is ~5 THB/kWh. Landlords resell it: 6–8 THB is honest, 10–15 is a tourist markup — always ask the rate before booking and fix it in the contract. Consumption is all about aircon:

• One aircon at night only: 1,500–2,500 THB/month
• Aircon round the clock in hot season: 4,000–6,000
• Villa (several aircons + pool pump): 8,000–15,000

Water

Nearly free: 300–800 THB/month by meter. Drinking water is bought separately — 14–20 THB for a big bottle, or 1–2 THB/litre from street dispensers.

Internet

Wi-Fi is included in most condos and apartments. A private fibre line costs 500–700 THB/month, but an unlimited tourist SIM (300–450 THB) covers most needs — see the SIM & internet guide.

Realistic totals

A couple in a one-bedroom with sane aircon habits: add 2,500–4,000 THB/month to the rent. In catalogue units the rates are written into the contract — no check-out surprises. Full cost picture — renting costs 2026.