Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, continues to draw expats and families with its breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle. Beyond its allure as a tropical paradise, safety and community are top considerations for anyone planning to settle here.
Luckily, Phuket offers a variety of neighborhoods, and numerous gated communities, that blend security, amenities, and a high quality of life, making it an excellent destination for families, retirees, and digital nomads to call home. Whether you’re planning to invest in property for sale in Phuket or just exploring opportunities to buy property in Phuket for vacation stays, this 2025 guide will help you choose the safest neighborhoods tailored to your needs.
Why Safety is Key When Moving to Phuket
Safety may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of idyllic Phuket, but for long-term residents, it’s a priority. Being aware of neighborhood security, community resources, and crime rates can significantly impact your living experience. Phuket is generally regarded as safe, but like any destination, some areas are more secure than others. Selecting the right neighborhood can elevate your peace of mind while ensuring access to other essential amenities like healthcare, schools, and recreational facilities.
Discover the Top 6 Safest Areas to Live in Phuket
This comprehensive 2025 neighborhood guide highlights the safest and most appealing areas to consider if you’re thinking about buying property in Phuket. Each location is distinct, catering to different preferences and lifestyles.
1. Cherngtalay & Laguna (10/10 Safety Score)
Cherngtalay, home to the prestigious Laguna Phuket complex, is the epitome of upscale living. Known for its securely gated communities, pristine surroundings, and luxurious villas, this area is a top choice for elite expats or families looking to settle in a safe environment.
Key Features: Experience the luxury of gated communities offering round-the-clock security, ensuring peace of mind and safety. Enjoy the convenience of being close to prestigious international schools and top-tier healthcare facilities. Relax on serene beaches such as Bang Tao and Layan, known for their tranquil beauty. Indulge in high-end amenities, including world-class golf courses, rejuvenating spas, and exquisite dining options.
Cherngtalay offers a perfect haven for families and elite expats seeking peace and exclusivity. Combining a sense of safety, convenient accessibility, and refined sophistication, this area stands out as a top choice for those looking to settle in a tranquil yet upscale environment.
2. Kamala (9/10 Safety Score)
For those seeking a tranquil lifestyle, Kamala is a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood that has been growing steadily among the expat community.
Key Features: This area offers luxurious upmarket condominiums and stunning villas, perfect for those seeking comfort and style. Residents enjoy convenient access to international schools and supermarkets, making daily life hassle-free. The peaceful beachfront is an ideal escape, providing tranquility and privacy with far fewer crowds than the bustling Patong area.
Retirees are looking for a peaceful and quiet environment to enjoy their solitude. Families who value safety and prefer calm, secure surroundings for their loved ones.
Kamala is a perfect blend of tranquility and modern conveniences, making it highly desirable for expatriates who wish to avoid Phuket’s more bustling districts.
3. Rawai (9/10 Safety Score)
Known for its relaxed vibe and sizable expat community, Rawai presents an excellent option for those looking for both safety and a spacious living environment.
Key Features: The area offers close proximity to nurseries and preschools, making it ideal for families with young children. It also boasts safe, uncrowded beaches like Nai Harn, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to trendy cafes, modern fitness centers, and community parks, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
This is ideal for families seeking a welcoming environment and retirees looking to enjoy a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle.
Rawai prioritizes community and space, offering plenty of opportunities for recreational and family-oriented activities.
4. Chalong (8–9/10 Safety Score)
Chalong is rapidly becoming a favorite for families needing practical conveniences mixed with safety and serenity. This affordable hub balances residential areas with modern amenities.
Key Features: This area offers access to excellent international schools and family-friendly parks, making it an ideal choice for those with children. It features a blend of gated luxury neighborhoods alongside more budget-friendly housing options, catering to a wide range of preferences. The community is vibrant and family-oriented, with plenty of cafes and restaurants that create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Families who value proximity to schools and open spaces will appreciate Chalong, an underrated gem in Phuket’s residential scene that offers an affordable balance between safety and vibrancy.
5. Phuket Town (8/10 Safety Score)
Phuket Town invites you into its culturally rich streets and historical architecture, offering a secure living environment without the high prices of beachfront areas.
Key Features: The area offers affordable houses and apartments, making it an attractive option for those looking for budget-friendly housing. It boasts a strong police presence and well-lit streets, ensuring safety and peace of mind for residents. Additionally, a vibrant local market scene and lively cultural festivals bring the community together, adding charm and excitement to the neighborhood.
This option is perfect for digital nomads and expats who enjoy an urban lifestyle with the convenience and vibrancy of city living, while families and individuals seeking a blend of culture and safety will find Phuket Town both functional and fascinating.
6. Kata & Karon (8–9/10 Safety Score)
Real favorites among expats and tourists alike, Kata and Karon provide a relaxed, beachside lifestyle while maintaining a welcoming, secure atmosphere.
Key Features: The area boasts family-friendly beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards, ensuring safety for visitors of all ages. With low crime rates and a strong sense of community, it offers a welcoming and secure environment. Additionally, the location is enriched by a variety of nearby international restaurants and convenient amenities, catering to diverse tastes and needs.
This destination is perfect for families seeking a quieter alternative to the busy Patong area, as well as long-term tourists looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. Kata and Karon offer beachside bliss without the chaos of more tourist-heavy spots.
Areas to Avoid or Exercise Caution
While Phuket is considered a safe destination overall, there are areas where extra precautions may be necessary:
- Patong’s Bangla Road: Famous for nightlife, this area can become rowdy, with pickpocketing being a concern.
- Phuket Old Town (at night): While safe during the day, more deserted streets after dark can pose security risks.
- Isolated Areas: Remote sections of Phuket may lack adequate security and infrastructure.
Staying Safe in Phuket
No matter where you live in Phuket, personal safety habits are essential. Here are some top safety tips
- Prioritize neighborhoods with gated communities or visible security measures.
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit, isolated, or minimally populated areas at night.
- Keep valuable possessions secure, especially in crowded tourist hubs.
- Families should prioritize easy access to reputable schools and healthcare facilities.
Why Buy Property in Phuket?
If you’re thinking about investing in property for sale in Phuket, the island’s top-notch safety standards add significant value to your investment. The rising popularity of neighborhoods like Cherngtalay, Kamala, and Rawai reflects the growing demand for secure and luxurious living spaces. With the right research, you can buy property in Phuket that offers both peace of mind and a favorable return on investment.
Why Safe, Family-Friendly Areas in Phuket Remain in High Demand in 2025
With its reputation for safety, clean beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle, Phuket continues to attract families, retirees, and long-term expats from around the world. Areas like Nai Harn, Rawai, Chalong, Bang Tao, and Laguna offer not only peace of mind, but also access to international schools, healthcare, and lifestyle conveniences. For anyone relocating or investing in a property, choosing a safe neighbourhood remains one of the most important decisions — and Phuket continues to offer some of the best in Southeast Asia.
Find Your Safe Haven in Phuket
Whether you’re a retiree seeking tranquility, a family in search of community, or an expat looking to combine work with leisure, Phuket has something for everyone. From the elite surroundings of Cherngtalay to the laid-back lifestyle of Rawai, you’ll find plenty of options for secure and vibrant living. Interested in exploring the best properties within these neighborhoods? Your dream home in paradise might be closer than you think.
Start your journey today and discover a world of possibilities to invest in or buy property in Phuket, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We can help you find the best areas for families to live in Phuket.
Looking for a Safe, Family-Friendly Place to Live in Phuket?
At Thai Residential, we specialise in helping expats and overseas buyers find the right property in Phuket’s safest and most liveable neighbourhoods. Whether you’re moving with family, retiring, or investing in a secure long-term home, we’ll guide you to the areas and properties that fit your needs.
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