The cities of Phuket and Patong have their own city governments, with elected city councils, the leading members of which serve as mayor.
There are also elected provincial, district, and sub-district, or Tambon councils. The local constabulary is part of the Interior.
Phuket' s attraction as a center of economic activity has resulted in many living on the island whose registration is elsewhere.
The total population of Phuket varies considerably depending on the time of year, though it is never less than the figure given above.