Phuket Education Sector Reinforces Housing Demand

Phuket's international school sector has expanded rapidly in recent years, reflecting the island's evolution from a short-term leisure destination into a global lifestyle hub for expatriates, entrepreneurs, and families seeking long-term residency. In 2026, Phuket is expected to have 18 international schools, which will serve more than 5,000 students from over 50 nationalities, representing a 51% increase in enrolment over the past three academic years.

Source: NCLS International

Unlike tourism, which is inherently seasonal, international education generates long-term residential demand. Families enrolling children in international schools typically commit to the island for several years, creating sustained demand for larger homes, stable rental accommodation, and family-oriented communities.

Two upcoming schools are set to further strengthen Phuket's educational offering. North London Collegiate School (NLCS) Phuket is scheduled to open in Manik in 2028, accommodating approximately 1,500 students and offering the English National Curriculum through to the IB Diploma Programme.

Located between Phuket's west coast residential corridor and the island's central districts, the campus is strategically positioned near the planned Kathu–Manik road and proposed expressway, which will improve connectivity between northern Phuket, Kathu, Patong, and the bypass corridor.

Glenalmond School Phuket, expected to open in 2026 near Mai Khao in northern Phuket, will introduce another premium British education option to the island. Affiliated with the historic Glenalmond College in Scotland, the school will further enhance Phuket's appeal to internationally mobile families seeking long-term residency options.

The locations of both schools align with areas experiencing significant residential and infrastructure investment. Bangtao and Cherngtalay, located within easy reach of the future NLCS campus, already account for a large portion of Phuket's residential supply, while northern Phuket continues to attract investment linked to airport expansion, hospitality developments, and wellness-led communities.

As Phuket continues to diversify beyond tourism, the expansion of its international education sector provides a strong indicator of long-term housing demand. Combined with world-class healthcare, expanding infrastructure, and international connectivity, the island's growing education ecosystem reinforces Phuket's position as an attractive destination for both families and property investors.