By Phuket News Property Editorial Team · January 12, 2026
Phuket today looks and functions very differently from the island many long-term residents first encountered twenty or more years ago. While its natural beauty remains unchanged, the supporting infrastructure that shapes daily life has undergone a remarkable transformation.
What was once a relatively simple island with limited facilities has evolved into a place that supports modern living at an international standard.
Roads and transport have reshaped daily movement
Twenty-five years ago, Phuket’s road network was basic. There were no underpasses, limited main roads, very few traffic lights, and congestion was handled more by patience than planning.
Over time, major improvements have been made. Underpasses and road expansions have eased traffic flow in key areas, while better road design has improved connectivity between the airport, beaches, residential zones, and Phuket Town.
Although traffic remains a reality during peak periods, daily movement across the island is far more structured and predictable than it once was.
Shopping and everyday convenience have expanded
In the past, shopping options were limited. Phuket Town had an ageing cinema complex, there were few organised retail spaces, and daily shopping often meant visiting local markets or small independent stores.
Today, modern shopping malls are spread across the island, offering cinemas, restaurants, supermarkets, and services under one roof. In addition to large malls, smaller community shopping centres have emerged in many residential areas, making everyday errands far more convenient.
Grocery shopping has also become easier. The presence of wholesale stores such as Makro and Go Wholesale, along with multiple Villa Market locations, has significantly improved access to international products and everyday essentials.
Leisure facilities have grown beyond beaches
While Phuket has always been known for its beaches, leisure options have diversified dramatically. The island now supports a wider range of activities that suit families, long-stay residents, and repeat visitors.
Additional golf courses, improved marinas, and modern water parks have expanded recreational choices. These facilities support both lifestyle living and tourism, helping Phuket function as a place where people can live full, varied lives year-round.
Healthcare and education support long-term living
Infrastructure improvements extend beyond roads and shopping. Healthcare facilities have expanded and modernised, offering services that support long-term residency rather than short visits.
International schools have also grown in number and quality, allowing families to settle on the island with confidence. These developments have made Phuket more suitable for residents at different life stages, from young families to retirees.
A shift from holiday island to liveable destination
Perhaps the most significant change is not a single development, but the cumulative effect of many improvements. Phuket has transitioned from a destination primarily geared toward tourism into a place designed for daily living.
Reliable infrastructure, improved services, and greater convenience have changed how residents experience the island. Tasks that once required planning and compromise are now routine parts of daily life.
A transformation shaped over time
The transformation of Phuket has been gradual rather than sudden. Each road upgrade, shopping centre, and facility has added another layer to the island’s functionality.
For long-term residents, the contrast between past and present is striking. What once felt remote now feels connected. What once felt limited now feels well supported.
Phuket’s infrastructure has evolved to match its international appeal, helping explain why so many people now choose to live on the island not just for its scenery, but for the quality of everyday life it offers.
