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Phuket vs Kuala Lumpur: which is cheaper?

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

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

Prices side by side

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

Best time to visit

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

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

Phuket cost guide Kuala Lumpur cost guide

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