Thailand real estate market shows regional divergence in volume and value

The Thai real estate market shows distinct regional trends and investment profiles. In the apartment sector, Pattaya maintains a high-volume market, accounting for 1,237 of the 1,903 nationwide listings. In the first quarter of 2026, Chonburi province recorded 1,167 condominium transfers to foreign buyers, representing 36% of all foreign purchases in the country. While Pattaya offers lower entry prices due to high-density vertical development, Bangkok leads in total transaction value, accounting for 45.63% of the market value.

Phuket represents a more premium, lower-volume market. Average condominium pricing in Phuket reached approximately 85,000 baht per square meter by March 2026, a 14% increase since 2024. Unlike Pattaya, Phuket's geography limits large-scale developments, driving up land costs.

Other notable areas include Koh Samui, Krabi, and Hua Hin, which serve as emerging gems for various buyer profiles. In Bangkok, residential choices for expats are heavily influenced by proximity to BTS and MRT rail lines to mitigate traffic congestion. Legal considerations for foreign buyers remain critical, particularly regarding the ‘51% rule’ and the use of Chanote deeds to ensure secure ownership.