Kathu — a Place to Live in the Centre of the Phuket Island
Kathu has historically been home to wealthy Thais and first-generation expats with above-average income. Its convenient transport links and comfortable housing, surrounded by golf courses, continue to attract foreigners. In the past, Kathu only had private houses, but in recent years, modern multi-family condominiums have been added to the housing stock, aimed at a younger clientele and more affordable prices.
From $123,000
Completion in: 2028.III 363 units in total
From $140,000
Completion in: 2028.I 564 units in total
From $125,000
Built in 2024 Total of 706 apartments
From $143,000
Built in 2024 Total of 432 apartments
From $173,000
Built in 2023 Total of 200 apartments
$292,000
Total area 50 m² 1 bedroom
From $803,000
Completion in: 2026.IV 69 units in total
$109,000
Total area 49 m² 2 bedrooms
Kathu’s neighbouring area, Wichit, is following the same development concept. It is home to Central Phuket, the island’s main shopping and entertainment complex, which is now surrounded by new comfortable condominiums with modern apartments and additional infrastructure, such as gyms and swimming pools. The new housing also includes villages of townhouses and detached houses from large Thai developers.
Kathu offers a comprehensive infrastructure for daily life, including international schools and cash and carry stores. However, for leisure activities and beach holidays, you have to travel to other areas, such as Kamala.
In August 2025, the Thai government approved the construction of the Kathu–Patong Expressway (Patong Tunnel), which is worth approximately 11 billion baht. This project, which is nearly 4 km in length, includes flyovers and a two-lane tunnel through the hills, is intended to alleviate the overloaded and dangerous Mountain Highway 4029.
The implementation of the project will be managed by the state-owned Expressway Authority of Thailand. Work on the project is scheduled to begin in 2026 and completion is anticipated by 2030. This road will significantly reduce travel times and enhance traffic safety, thereby improving the transportation accessibility of Kathu and surrounding areas, including Kamala.
Accommodation in Kathu
Kathu has become the new «uptown» of Phuket, offering convenient living and working options. Studio apartments are available for rent starting at 300 US dollars per month. Housing is typically rented for long periods and is in high demand among both Thai locals and foreigners. If you prefer to visit the beach on weekends rather than daily, Kathu is one of the best places to live in Phuket.
Places of Interest in Kathu
Kathu’s main points of attraction include the Central Phuket shopping and entertainment centre, Big C and Lotus shopping centres, Andamanda water park, Decathlon, Makro and Index Living Mall stores, as well as KIS, QSI and HeadStart schools, and BDMS Network hospitals.
Hotels in Kathu
Hotels in Kathu typically refer to hotels in Patong, which is part of Kathu district along with the Kamala and Kathu areas. While Kathu does offer short-term rental accommodations, they are primarily found in apartment complexes consisting mostly of studios and one-bedroom apartments. Although there are some small hotels, it is difficult to compare them to condos.
Living in a condominium has clear advantages, such as having your own apartment with home comforts like a kitchen. Additionally, complexes often offer amenities like a swimming pool, gym, 24-hour security, and covered parking. However, it is important to discuss the issue of regular cleaning and concierge services in advance.
This accommodation option is popular among tourists who are familiar with Phuket. Residents of Kathu are not tied to one nearby beach, but have maximum opportunities to explore the island, from the secret corners of the east and west coasts to the historical centre of Phuket Town.
Who are Hotels in Kathu For?
Although Kathu is geographically located in the south, it is actually the centre of the island. This makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Phuket due to its strategic central position in relation to all other parts of the island.
Places of interest Near Kathu Hotels
Near the hotels in Kathu, visitors can find several attractions, including the Central Phuket shopping and entertainment centre, the Siam Niramit cultural and historical show, the Andamanda water park, and the Hanuman World jungle park. The area is also home to several schools, such as KIS, QSI, and HeadStart.
Property Prices in Kathu
The most popular properties in Kathu are condominium apartments, which are in demand for both short-term and long-term rentals. Prices for a studio of about 30–35 sq. metres start at 100,000 US dollars.
From $123,000
Completion in: 2028.III 363 units in total
From $140,000
Completion in: 2028.I 564 units in total
From $125,000
Built in 2024 Total of 706 apartments
From $143,000
Built in 2024 Total of 432 apartments
From $173,000
Built in 2023 Total of 200 apartments
$292,000
Total area 50 m² 1 bedroom
From $803,000
Completion in: 2026.IV 69 units in total
$109,000
Total area 49 m² 2 bedrooms
North of Kathu, in an area called Koh Kaew, modern villages of townhouses and detached houses are under active construction. Prices in these projects start at 150,000 US dollars per 130 sq. metres. The rental demand is also being boosted by the proximity of BISP international school, which is one of the most prestigious schools in Phuket.
Tranio has a representative office in Phuket. Our managers and lawyers will organise a turnkey transaction without increasing the purchase cost.
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