Welcome back to the Architect Phuket blog! I’m Nay, your native Thai architect, and I’m continuing our series on Phuket’s subdistricts to help you find the perfect spot for property investment, retirement, or building a house. Today, we’re docking in Ratsada, a name tied to “harbour” in Thai—and it offers a gritty, urban edge for those seeking function over flash.
Why Ratsada Appeals to Budget-Conscious Property Investors
Ratsada sprawls in Phuket’s southeast in Mueang Phuket District, east of Phuket Town. It’s a port-driven hub where locals, workers, and expats settle for practicality and proximity to the city’s pulse. Land here is among the cheapest in Phuket—lowest near the port—making it a prime choice for budget-conscious investors. Rentals tend to attract workers and short-term tenants, offering steady, if not spectacular, returns. The area’s focus on function over tourism ensures a consistent rental market, ideal for investors seeking affordable, urban-focused opportunities with reliable demand.
Is Ratsada Suitable for Retirees Seeking an Urban, Affordable Lifestyle?
The vibe in Ratsada is raw and real, suitable for retirees who prioritise affordability and urban access over a serene coastal setting. Ratsada Pier hums with activity—boats and trade dominate, without the tourist gloss. You’ve got dining options like Roti Chaofa for a quick bite or Krua Thara for seafood with a local edge. Central Phuket is just 10 minutes west for shopping, and traffic is brisk—Rassada Road buzzes but remains manageable. It’s not a picturesque retreat; it’s a functional, urban base, making it an affordable choice for retirees who value city proximity. The airport is 30 minutes north, and Chalong’s pier, 15 minutes south, links to islands like Koh Phi Phi. Wildlife is minimal—mostly urban critters like geckos—keeping distractions low.
Building an Affordable Home in Ratsada: Topography and Opportunities
Ratsada’s topography has a rugged tilt, offering opportunities for those looking to build a house on a budget. Flat land lines the port—perfect for straightforward construction—while hills climb east, steep in some spots. This mixed terrain provides options; the flat zone’s ease suits practical projects, and the hills offer a perch for those willing to tackle the rise.
Let’s analyse a 3 km radius around Ratsada Pier, the area’s working heart:
- 0.75 km Radius (Pier Hub): This is the busy core, where the pier and trade activity buzz—great for rentals or small trade-focused stops catering to workers.
- 1.5 km Radius (Residential Potential): This zone focuses on homes, offering a functional base close to the port—solid for a practical house or modest stays.
- 3 km Radius (Hilly Retreat): This area reaches the hills, ideal for a rugged, budget-friendly build, linking west to Phuket Town or south to Wichit.
Ratsada is a rough but practical choice—plugged into the urban flow. It’s ideal for building an affordable house, though those roads can jostle—check them out first. Build tough; this area values resilience.
Building Regulations in Ratsada
Here’s what you need to know about building regulations:
- The flat portside area requires 40% open space for greenery or parking.
- Hilly zones require 60% open space.
- Coastal strips near the port (10-50 metres from the shore) cap builds at 6 metres, under 75 square metres, with 75% open space. Shorelines can’t be owned, so watch the boundaries.
- Inland, you can hit 12 metres, but slopes over 50% are off-limits—stick to the flatter or gentler hilly areas.
Start with the Phuket City Land Use Planning Map, Land Slope Controls via topography analysis, Thailand Ministerial Regulation No. 22, and the Phuket Environmental Control Map. These are standard rules, but they can shift, and exceptions slip in, so check with Phuket officials.
Is Ratsada the Right Investment for You?
Ratsada is a portside pick—great for a budget-friendly retirement, an affordable urban home, or a rental with steady appeal for workers and short-term tenants. It’s not posh or quiet, but it offers a practical pulse for investors, retirees, and home builders seeking value. Grab a solid spot, and you’re in. Ready to invest or build in Ratsada? Contact us at Architect Phuket to start planning your project!
Video Coming Soon
A video on this topic will be coming sometime in the future, so stay tuned for more insights on Ratsada.
What’s Next?
In my next post, we’ll explore another Phuket subdistrict to continue our journey. For now, if you’re ready to get started, reach out via our contact page.
