Prices
Pattaya is significantly cheaper than Phuket — on average by 25-35{4c3c43d1166a1d1dff527390f0aa80c2208b22b51fad691393a45f9289cfc652}. For 2 million baht in Pattaya, you can buy a good studio by the sea, while in Phuket there are almost no options for that money.
Logistics
Pattaya: 1.5 hours from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi). There is its own airport U-Tapao. Easy and cheap to get there.
Phuket: An island with its own international airport. Direct flights from Russia, but more expensive.
Climate
Pattaya: The rainy season is shorter and milder (June-October). Comfortable year-round.
Phuket: More pronounced rainy season (May-October). Western beaches are dangerous for swimming during the monsoon season.
Rental and Yield
Pattaya: More stable year-round flow of tenants. Yield 5-8{4c3c43d1166a1d1dff527390f0aa80c2208b22b51fad691393a45f9289cfc652}.
Phuket: Higher rental rates, but pronounced seasonality. Yield 4-7{4c3c43d1166a1d1dff527390f0aa80c2208b22b51fad691393a45f9289cfc652}.
Lifestyle
Pattaya: A city. Shopping malls, restaurants, nightlife, hospitals. Everything within walking distance.
Phuket: An island. Nature, beaches, tranquility. More of a «resort» atmosphere, but less developed urban infrastructure.
Our Verdict
Pattaya wins for investments (lower entry threshold, higher yield) and for permanent living (infrastructure, logistics). Phuket is for those seeking an island lifestyle and willing to pay more.