Koh Tao is a tiny island in southern Thailand, famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and amazing marine life. It’s a hotspot for tourists, and a great place for digital nomads and expats. But before you dream of moving to this little paradise, let’s talk about the Koh Tao cost of living.
To help you out, here’s a breakdown of what our family of four spent in July 2024. That’s when the “small high season” kicks off (July to August). Ready to see the numbers?
Koh Tao Important Stats and Info
Location: Koh Tao (also written “Ko Tao) is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, part of the Chumphon Archipelago, located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) east of the mainland, near Koh Phangan.
Size: Around 21 square kilometers (8 square miles).
Population: Officially, about 2,240 residents, but it’s estimated that around 8,000 people actually live here, according to Koh Tao – A Complete Guide.
Tourists: The island welcomes about 400,000 visitors each year, mainly for its world-famous diving spots.
Health Care: Koh Tao has one general and a few small private hospitals and doctors. For major injuries and better medical care, you should go to Ko Samui.
Internet Connection: Unfortunately, it’s not always ideal, as frequent power cuts can make working on Koh Tao quite challenging.
Local Transportation: There’s no public transportation in Koh Tao. You can use Songtaews (Thai Taxis) or rent a scooter. The traffic can get very busy during high season. Car rentals do not exist as far as I know.
Attractions:
- Diving: Known as one of the best scuba diving destinations globally, with top sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Shark Island.
- Beaches: Favorites include Sairee Beach, Ao Leuk, Shark Bay, and Nang Yuan Island.
- Hiking: Popular trails lead to viewpoints like John-Suwan Viewpoint and Fraggle Rock.
- Snorkeling: Excellent spots around the island, especially Mango Bay and Tanote Bay.
- Marine Life: Expect to see turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant underwater life.
Getting to Koh Tao
- Ferry Options: There are regular ferries departing from Chumphon, Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui.
- Ferry Companies: Popular operators include Lomprayah (personally that’s the best way to get to Koh Tao for me), Seatran, and Songserm.
- Closest Airports:
- Koh Samui Airport is roughly a 2-hour ferry trip away.
- Chumphon Airport is about 1.5 hours away by ferry.
Koh Tao Cost of Living (Monthly)
🏠 Housing: 46.000 THB (1.190 EUR/1,293 USD) – 2 bdr apartment in Sairee incl. water and electricity
🛒 Groceries: 11.500 THB (298 EUR/323 USD) – mostly local supermarkets and fruit stalls
🥗 Restaurants: 52.000 THB (1.345 EUR/1,460 USD) – min. 1x/day local restaurants, max. 2x/day Western food
🛵 Transportation: 14.000 THB (360 EUR/395 USD) – we rented 2 Aerox for 6.000 THB/month + gas
👶 Childcare: 44.000 THB (1.140 EUR/1,245 USD) – both girls went to Koh Tao Preschool every day and on top, we had a wonderful Burmese nanny for the little one
🏋️ Sport: 13.200 THB (340 EUR/370 USD) – daily Yoga classes for two at Blue Chitta
💻 Co-Working: 4.000 THB (105 EUR/113 USD) – hot seat at Blacktip Co-Working for one person (Lulu only worked at cafes)
💆♀️ Personal Care: 11.600 THB (300 EUR/325 USD) – massages and hairdresser/barber
🥳 Fun & Activities: 11.000 THB (285 EUR/311 USD) – diving, snorkeling, bouldering and dancing classes for the kids
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💸 Total: 207.300 THB = 5.400 EUR = 5,870 USD
Atmosphere and Vibe in Koh Tao
We spent several months living on Koh Tao, both during COVID and when the tourists came flooding back. The vibe is chill, active, and filled with a sense of community – also among the Thai people.
What really connects people on Koh Tao, aka Turtle Island, is the shared love for outdoor activities, water sports, and nature. The island’s setup reflects that, with dive schools everywhere, resorts where you can live and earn your diving certification right on the beach, huge full day snorkeling tours with 200 people packed on boats, and plenty of underwater photographers.
There’s also a strong bar scene here. After a day of diving, it’s pretty common to unwind with a drink. Sairee Beach, the main beach, is lined with bars, and bar crawls and drinking games are a regular thing.
The crowd here is super young. When I say young, I mean that at 30-something, I felt ancient! It’s mostly backpackers, coming to get their diving certifications and enjoy the nightlife.
Luxury isn’t the focus here, with only a few exceptions. Pack your casual summer dress rather than chic clothing. Koh Tao is mainly for young, budget-conscious travelers who love nature. But you can still find some chic spots to eat and stay if you look for them.
Beaches and Scenery in Koh Tao
Beaches:
- Sairee Beach: The longest and most popular beach on the island, famous for its buzzing nightlife, restaurants, and stunning sunsets.
- Ao Leuk: A quieter bay with crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling and kicking back.
- Shark Bay: Known for frequent blacktip reef shark sightings and calm, shallow waters ideal for snorkeling. My husband and I once spotted seven black tips while snorkeling here—such an unforgettable experience!
- Tanote Bay: A more secluded spot, great for snorkeling, and home to a large rock popular for cliff jumping.
Natural Beauty:
- Dive Sites: Koh Tao is a top diving destination, with sites like Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock, and Shark Island offering incredible coral reefs, diverse marine life, and even the chance to spot whale sharks during certain seasons.
- Viewpoints: Don’t miss stunning viewpoints like John-Suwan Viewpoint and Fraggle Rock. You can also check out Koh Nang Yuan, a nearby island with two lush hills connected by a beautiful sandbank—picture-perfect and often associated with Koh Tao’s iconic scenery.
What made Koh Tao more expensive for us than Koh Phangan?
We found that the rental prices in Koh Tao are pretty high compared to islands like Koh Phangan. We paid much more for a simple apartment in Koh Tao than a house in Koh Phangan. On the other hand, the food prices and the costs of childcare were a bit cheaper.
What made a difference was diving! When you live in a diver’s paradise, you have to take advantage of it, right?! Even though diving is pretty affordable in Koh Tao (around 2.000 THB for two dives/person), it has made a difference in the bank account.
There are numerous dive shops and schools that offer a variety of courses, from introductory programs to advanced certifications. We love Pimp my Dive because they start around 10 am. That gives us the chance to organize childcare. Besides, they are really nice and cool people.
Why you should go diving in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a diver’s paradise, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and packed with marine life. With over 25 dive sites to choose from, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re into deep dives or exploring shallow reefs.
Not a diver? No worries! Koh Tao also has amazing snorkeling spots. Tons of dive operators run snorkeling trips to shallow reefs buzzing with colorful fish. But, fair warning: if you don’t book ahead or you’re on a tight budget, you might end up on a boat with 120 other people. We did, and let’s just say… it was quite the experience!
How to Dive and Snorkel Responsibly in Koh Tao: Simple Tips for Protecting Marine Life
When you’re exploring the beautiful waters of Koh Tao, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to help protect the marine environment. First up, do wear reef-safe sunscreen. Regular sunscreens contain chemicals that are harmful to coral, so choosing an eco-friendly option is a must. Even better, skip the sunscreen where possible and throw on a rash guard—it’ll protect your skin and keep the ocean happy too.
Be mindful of your fins. It’s easy to accidentally kick the coral, and even a small bump can damage it. Coral takes years to grow, so be careful not to touch or stand on it, no matter how tempting it is to get a closer look. Coral isn’t as tough as it looks!
Lastly, respect the marine life. As much as you might want a close-up with a turtle or fish, avoid chasing or touching them. Enjoy the view from a distance and let them go about their day. By following these simple tips, you’ll help keep Koh Tao’s reefs and marine life thriving for future snorkelers and divers.
Accommodation Options and Styles
For some reason, most places to stay on Koh Tao have this thing for gray concrete walls and concrete furniture. It’s what I like to call “Koh Tao charm,” though honestly, it’s not exactly my favorite look.
That said, you’re not coming to Koh Tao for fancy, stylish accommodations. The island is full of budget options and hostels, with a good number of basic to mid-range resorts with pools. Those offer a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. There are a few luxury villas too, but they’re rare and tend to be way more expensive compared to other spots in the Gulf of Thailand.
Here’s a list of the top 5 accommodations with a price range from budget, middle class and luxury options. Please note: It’s always a good idea to book accommodations and diving tours in advance, especially during high season. Koh Tao can fill quite quickly.
Budget Accommodation
- The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel
A cozy, higher-end hostel located near Chalok Baan Kao Bay with dormitory-style rooms and a laid-back jungle vibe. Great for socializing. - Assava Dive Resort
A dive resort offering affordable bungalows and diving lessons, perfect for budget travelers looking for an active holiday. Located near Sairee Beach, offering cozy rooms and bungalows at budget prices, with a relaxed atmosphere and a pool.
- Taatoh Seaview Resort
A simple, affordable resort at the southern tip of the island with stunning views and access to some quieter beaches. - Tropicana Resort
Offering basic and affordable bungalows right on the beach, perfect for those looking to save while being close to the water.
Mid-Range Accommodation
- Blue Tao Beach Hotel
Located right on Sairee Beach, offering rooms with ocean views and a modern, clean design. Perfect for those who want a beachfront stay without breaking the bank. - Wind Beach Resort
A beachside resort with spacious rooms, a pool, and a lively atmosphere. Great for those seeking mid-range comfort with easy access to bars and restaurants. - Sensi Paradise Beach Resort
A peaceful spot near Mae Haad Beach offering wooden bungalows with sea views and a relaxing ambiance. Ideal for families and couples. - Tanote Villa Hill
Nestled in Tanote Bay, this resort offers serene ocean views, two infinity pools, and comfortable bungalows, perfect for a peaceful getaway. - Chabalay Resort
Located in Aow Leuk Bay, this resort offers rustic bungalows with stunning sea views, ideal for those seeking a quieter stay closer to nature.
Luxury Accommodation
- The Place Luxury Boutique Villas
Private, luxury villas set in the hills, offering stunning ocean views and complete privacy. A perfect romantic getaway. - Ban’s Diving Resort
A luxury diving resort with elegant suites, lush gardens, and a prime location on Sairee Beach. Ideal for diving enthusiasts. - Jamahkiri Dive Resort & Spa
A 5-star resort with breathtaking views, luxury pool villas, and a full-service spa. Perfect for a tranquil, indulgent escape. - Cape Shark Villas
Stunning private villas located near Shark Bay, offering incredible views, private pools, and modern amenities. Great for luxury travelers. - Naroua Villas
Luxury hillside villas with private pools and panoramic views of Sairee Bay. A fantastic spot for families or groups seeking privacy and comfort.
Food Options in Koh Tao
In Koh Tao you can choose between affordable street food options, budget-friendly local restaurants, international restaurants and a handful of posh places. Most of them offer free wifi. Here are my recommendations:
Top Places for Breakfast
- Factory Cafe
A top spot for breakfast with delicious smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and fresh juices, perfect for starting your day in Koh Tao. - Coconut Monkey
Located near Mae Haad, Coconut Monkey offers laid-back vibes with healthy breakfasts like granola, smoothie bowls, and fresh juices right by the beach. - Zest Coffee Shop
Known for its great coffee and breakfast sets, Zest is a cozy spot with options like yogurt bowls, muesli, and full English breakfasts. - Blue Water Cafe
A popular choice for brunch, offering a range of tasty breakfast options including eggs Benedict, pancakes, and fresh coffee. - Living Juices
This place is perfect for health-conscious travelers with a variety of fresh juice blends, smoothie bowls, and healthy breakfast bites.
Top Places for Dining
- Whitening
A beachfront gem known for its laid-back vibe and fresh thai food, perfect for enjoying a romantic dinner with your toes in the sand. - Portobello
This cozy Italian restaurant is loved for its homemade pasta and extensive wine list, providing a delightful mix of comfort food in the heart of Sairee Beach. - Seaside Restaurant
Enjoy fresh local food and stunning sunset views from this family-run restaurant perched on a cliff overlooking Sairee Beach. - The French Market
This chic restaurant offers a blend of French and Italian dishes, with an extensive wine selection and a unique basketball court for some fun after your meal. - Munchies Sushi
For sushi lovers, Munchies Sushi serves up fresh rolls, sashimi, and creative fusion dishes that blend traditional Japanese flavors with tropical Koh Tao vibes. The restaurant is right next to The French Market.
Top Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly Spots
- VegetaBowl
A must-visit for vegans, serving flavorful and healthy bowls with plenty of plant-based options, including vegan smoothies and snacks. - La Carotte Qui Rit
A fully vegan Thai restaurant offering delicious plant-based versions of classic Thai dishes. A favorite for vegans on the island. - Babaloo
Known for its vegan duck and Massaman curry, this hidden gem offers some of the tastiest vegan Thai dishes on the island. - The Factory Cafe
It is not only great for breakfast but also amazing for vegans. The Factory offers a selection of plant-based breakfasts and healthy meals, including smoothie bowls and vegan toasts. - Prana Cafe
Located near a yoga school, this cafe offers delicious vegan and vegetarian brunch options like smoothie bowls and salads made with organic ingredients.
Final Thoughts on the Koh Tao Cost of Living in 2024
So, is Koh Tao calling your name? If you’re thinking about living in Koh Tao or any of the other Thai islands, it’s good to know the costs, especially if you’re staying long-term. Compared to Western countries, the overall cost of living here is much lower; I’d even say it’s just a fraction of the cost.
While places like Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand or Koh Phangan might be cheaper for rent, Koh Tao’s stunning beaches, world-class diving, and laid-back island life make it all worth it.
We absolutely loved our time here, and yes, it’s easy to splurge on diving and adventure. If you plan to visit Koh Tao with your Family, make sure to read my comparison between Koh Tao and Koh Phangan first.
Do you plan to live in Koh Tao? What do you think of the cost of living in Koh Tao? Let me know in the comments! Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day!
Yours, Lulu
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