Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Koh Samui costs approximately $1,040 per month for one person including rent. That is 36% below the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $891, Koh Samui is on the more expensive side for Asia. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $820 per month, or $437 outside the centre. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $4.81 and a monthly transit pass $48. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 138 Mbps and Koh Samui scores 65/100 on safety (generally safe), and Thailand offers a digital nomad visa. Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Koh Samui is a city in Thailand, where a single person can expect to spend about $1,040 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $820 per month, or $437 outside the centre. Internet is solid at around 138 Mbps median download speed, and Thailand offers a digital nomad visa. On safety, Koh Samui scores 65/100 — generally safe for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 87°F and winter highs around 82°F, with roughly 345 sunny days a year.
Top for Party BeachTop for Yoga WellnessTop for BeachDigital nomad visaLGBTQ+ friendlyFamily friendly
A single person should budget around $1,040 per month in Koh Samui, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs.
How much is rent in Koh Samui?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Koh Samui averages $820 per month, dropping to about $437 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $1,924.
Is Koh Samui safe?
Koh Samui scores 65/100 on safety, which is generally safe. Tourist safety is rated 65/100.
How fast is the internet in Koh Samui?
Median download speeds in Koh Samui are around 138 Mbps — solid for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 15 coworking spaces in the city.
Does Thailand offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes — Thailand offers a digital nomad visa. US passport holders can typically stay 60 days visa-free before applying.
What is the weather like in Koh Samui?
Koh Samui sees summer highs around 87°F and winter highs near 82°F, with about 345 sunny days and 222 rainy days per year.
