What to Know Before Moving to Koh Samui
LifestyleSo you’re thinking about swapping traffic jams and cold mornings for palm trees, fresh coconuts, and island life? Koh Samui has become a magnet for digital nomads, semi-retirees, families, and long-term travelers—and it’s easy to see why. But before you pack your bags and say goodbye to the mainland grind, here’s what you really need to know.
1. Visas & Staying Long-Term
Most people arrive on a 30-day tourist visa, which can often be extended to 60 days. But if you're in it for the long haul, you’ve got a few more options:
- Education Visa – Enroll at a language school and you can stay up to a year (just show attendance).
- Retirement Visa – For those 50+, with financial proof and health insurance.
- Work/Business Visa – Valid if you’re employed or starting a company. A work permit is required.
Always check up-to-date rules with a local visa agent—regulations can change fast.
2. What Does It Cost to Live Here?
Samui isn’t “cheap Thailand” anymore—but it can still be affordable compared to the West.
- Basic living (solo expat): around ฿35,000–฿55,000/month ($950–$1,500 USD)
- Mid-range/family lifestyle: ฿70,000+ ($1,900 USD+), especially if renting a villa with pool
- Rent, dining, and transport vary a lot by area. Lamai and Maenam still offer decent deals, while Bophut and Chaweng are more upscale.
3. Healthcare & Insurance
Samui has several governemnt and international hospitals, including:
- Bangkok Hospital Samui
- Wattanapat Hospital
- Samui International Hospital
Smaller clinics are available everywhere and can treat most day-to-day issues affordably. But if you’re staying long-term, get proper health insurance—especially if you're planning to drive or travel.
4. Best Areas to Live
Where you settle depends on your vibe:
- Bophut – Trendy, walkable, near Fisherman’s Village
- Lamai – Local feel, quiet nights, affordable homes
- Maenam – Chill, family-friendly, good long-term rental options
- Chaweng – Central and busy, nightlife galore
- South Samui – Rural, peaceful, mostly locals and retirees
5. Internet & Remote Work
Samui is remote-work friendly. Most homes have access to fiber internet (300–1000 Mbps).
There are also several coworking spaces and laptop-friendly cafés scattered around Lamai, Chaweng, and Bophut.
6. Schools & Kids
If you’re coming with children, Samui has a few highly recommended international schools, including:
- International School of Samui (ISS)
- PBISS British School
- Greenacre International School
- and many more
Tuition varies, but there are also bilingual Thai schools with solid reputations.
7. Getting Around
- Motorbike/Scooter – Most popular way to get around. Rentals start at 2,000 THB - 3,000 THB/month.
- Car – Recommended if you have kids or want to travel in rainy season.
- Taxi apps (Bolt, NaviGo) work in key areas but aren’t everywhere.
- Public Transport: motorbike taxi, songtaews and regular taxis are options, just always arrange price beforehand
Driving without a proper license can void your insurance. Get an IDP or Thai license if staying long-term.
8. Reality Check: Island Life
It’s beautiful here—but it’s not a non-stop vacation.
Here’s the honest truth:
- Some things move slow (especially admin stuff)
- The island gets very quiet during low season (Oct–Nov)
- Shopping options are limited outside of a few big stores (but there is Lazada and Shopee and Bangkok is only an hour away)
- Mosquitoes love it here too
But if you’re after balance, sunshine, and a simpler life—Samui can give you that in spades.
Living in Koh Samui isn’t for everyone. But if you can handle the quirks, respect the local culture, and appreciate the slower pace, it might just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Try a 1-month stay before making the big move. Talk to locals. Rent before you buy.
And remember: paradise isn’t perfect, but it sure beats traffic lights.
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