1) not true - comparable prices to other places in thailand including hotel prices, food in restaurants maybe 10-20% high. Massages, Food in supermarkets, Motorbike Rent, Condo Monthly Rent Prices nearly all the same
2) It's your choice , hire from a reputable hire place with good reviews
3) Yeah taxi fares are higher but you either 1) buy or rent a scooter, 2) take a songthaew to places 3) buy a bike 4) Take the airport bus
4) Stop complaining, Phuket is great place with an international airport, great beaches, good waves for surfing etc etc