Phuket vs Tokyo

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Phuket is roughly 46% more affordable than Tokyo (index 20 vs 36, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Phuket
More affordable overall
46% cheaper than Tokyo · Cost index: 20 vs 36

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

20Cost Index36
1,190Median Income /mo2,676
45Safety Index92
15Income Tax %20
95Internet (Mbps)85
175Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

PhuketCategoryTokyo
$540/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
38% cheaper →
$870/month
$1.45/liter
Meal for One
15% cheaper →
$1.7/liter
$4/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
60% cheaper →
$10/meal
$40/month
Monthly Transit Pass
50% cheaper →
$80/month
$85/month
Utilities (Monthly)
37% cheaper →
$135/month
$35/visit
Doctor Visit
30% cheaper →
$50/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Phuket

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$175/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability58/100

Tokyo

Internet85 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability80/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Phuket cheaper than Tokyo?

Phuket is cheaper than Tokyo. Phuket has a cost of living index of 20/100 compared to 36/100 for Tokyo (New York = 100), making it roughly 46% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Phuket than Tokyo?

Phuket is approximately 46% cheaper than Tokyo based on cost index scores (20 vs 36, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Tokyo could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,615/month in Phuket.

What is the rent comparison between Phuket and Tokyo?

In Phuket, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $540/month. In Tokyo, the equivalent is around $870/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Phuket or Tokyo?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Phuket offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$175/month. Tokyo offers 85 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Phuket has a cost advantage of 46%.

What is the average income in Phuket vs Tokyo?

The median net monthly salary in Phuket is approximately $1,190 USD, compared to $2,676 USD in Tokyo.

Compare Phuket with…

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