1.What is it like to live in Koh Samui?

Living on the beautiful and exotic island of Koh Samui offers plenty of fun in the sun, world-class beaches, golf courses and accommodations. As a long-term expat, you can rest assured that there is a family-like atmosphere on the island, with many choosing Samui as their home. Like the rest of Thailand, Koh Samui features a lower cost of living than most Western countries.

Finding a delicious meal is never a problem on Koh Samui. From 20 THB a plate for chicken and rice to 3,000 THB for an imported steak, wine, and dessert, the options are endless. World cuisines such as Italian, French, Indian, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Vegan foods can be found everywhere on the island with supermarkets also offering imported goods from around the world.

Although there are many industries that foreigners are not allowed to work, an ample amount of sectors welcome skilled foreigners. If you have trouble finding legal work for your specialty or career, it is possible to start your own business that can allow you to work in an industry that is typically not available to foreigners. Such examples of industries include restaurants, bars, farming, services, etc.

Digital nomads will also be delighted when working in Koh Samui or other parts of Thailand as the country features a very good internet infrastructure.

2.How many expats live in Koh Samui?

Nicknamed the Pearl of the China Sea, Koh Samui is part of an archipelago of 80 islands, the most famous of which also includes Koh Phangan and Koh Tao further to the north of Samui. Currently, the local population is 62,500 (including 6,000 foreign residents or expats).

3.Is it expensive in Koh Samui?

We’d say that Koh Samui, mainly because it’s a big tourist hotspot, has stunning beaches, and is detached from the mainland, is a touch pricier than the rest of the Land of Smiles. However, it’s still very affordable when you compare it to other destinations around the globe, especially the UK and the USA.

4.What is the best place to live in Koh Samui?

Some popular neighborhoods to consider include the bustling beaches of Chaweng and Lamai, the scenic Bophut mountains and coast, and the tranquil, undeveloped areas of Maenam and Bangrak.

5.Is Koh Samui a good place to live?

Crimes. There is a little violent crime in Koh Samui. In general, Koh Samui is a very safe place to live with some petty crime as anywhere in the world. In case of something wrong happening, there are police and tourist police stations around the island where most of them speak good English.

6.Has Koh Samui ever had a tsunami?

As Koh Samui is located in the Chumphon Archipelago, its geographical location protects it from possible tsunamis and other severe, tropical storms. This is one of the biggest reasons why the island is increasingly becoming a favorite for investors, long-term expats and tourists.

7.How much does it cost to live in Koh Samui?

Like the rest of Thailand, Koh Samui features a lower cost of living than most Western countries. If you are interested in buying a property, check out our home buyer’s guide. For those looking to rent a house or condo, check out our available properties for rent!

Average costs of living for a single person living on Koh Samui start at:

• 7,000 THB/month rent
• 2,500 THB/month motorbike rental
• 2,500 THB/month health insurance
• 12,000 THB/month for food

Average costs of living for a family of 4 starts at:

• 20,000 THB/month for 3-bedroom villa
• 9,000 THB/month for car rental
• 8,000 THB/month health insurance
• 50,000 THB/month international school tuition for 2 children
• 25,000 THB/month for food

8.Why is Koh Samui popular?

Koh Samui is the most famous island in all of Thailand. As it is known for its exotic, palm tree-edged beaches and crystal clear, turquoise waters, its appeal is unparalleled. The island is visited by every kind of traveler, from backpackers to Hollywood celebrities.

9.Where is Ko Samui located?

Koh Samui island is around 750 km south of Thailand’s capital of Bangkok. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the island is the second largest in the country. While the rest of the country features an abundant monsoon season, Koh Samui enjoys considerably mild weather throughout the year.

In addition to its favorable weather thanks to its tropical savannah climate, the island’s Chumphon Archipelago geographical location protects it from possible tsunamis and other severe, tropical storms.

10.How big is Koh Samui Thailand?

Koh Samui lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus. The total land area of the island is 228.7 km², with the max length and width being 25 km and 21 km respectively. The highest elevation is 635 m (2,083 ft). As of 2017, the population of Koh Samui is 67,265.

11.How much do I need to retire in Thailand?

A recent study by NetCredit has estimated that a person would need, on average, $390,000 USD to retire comfortably in Thailand. The study based the amount on average equivalent quality of life a foreigner would enjoy in their native, home country. Although this is not true for every person, it is a good starting point in which to base your retirement funds.

To apply for a retirement visa in Thailand, the law dictates that applicants should have a savings of 800,000 THB or $25,000 USD in a Thai bank account. Another option is to show funds being deposited monthly into your Thai bank account in the amount of 65,000 THB or $2,000 USD.

12.Where do most expats live in Koh Samui?

Most expats live in the northeastern region around Lamai, Chaweng, Choeng Mon, Bophut and Maenam where you will find the most shopping and amenities. You can get practically whatever you need on the island.

13.Is Samui cheaper than Phuket?

Between the two, Koh Samui is cheaper than Phuket.

Although your costs will be personal, they are generally higher in Phuket because it is a more popular tourist destination. So, if you visit Phuket, plan to budget more for your stay.

14.What is the main town in Koh Samui?

Chaweng City Center – What to do in Chaweng City Center – Go …

Chaweng

Chaweng is Koh Samui’s busiest and biggest town, which has sprung up around one of the island’s finest beaches.

15.What is the average income in Koh Samui?

The average salary for jobs in Ko Samui, Thailand is ฿508,724 (THB) per year or an hourly rate of ฿245 (THB).