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Kuala Lumpur vs Phuket: which is cheaper?

For a mid-range week for two, Kuala Lumpur is about 38% cheaper (excluding flights).

7-day tripKuala LumpurPhuket
Backpacker (1 person)$231$336
Mid-range (2 people)$1,134$1,820
Comfort (2 people)$3,290$5,250

Prices side by side

Typical price (USD)Kuala LumpurPhuket
Accommodation (mid-range room)$50$70
Hostel dorm bed$12$15
Food per day (mid-range)$28$35
Transport per day (mid-range)$10$20
Activities per day (mid-range)$18$40

Best time to visit

Kuala Lumpur: May to July and December to February are a little drier, but KL is warm all year with short afternoon showers.

Phuket: November to April (dry season, calm seas). May to October is monsoon season, with rougher seas and much lower prices.

Kuala Lumpur cost guide Phuket cost guide

Estimates for planning, checked 2026-10-11. Flights are not included because they depend on where you fly from.