Cambodia Cost of Living Guide

Cambodia’s low cost of living makes it a top choice for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. Monthly expenses range from $400 in rural areas to $2,000 in Phnom Penh’s luxury scene. This guide breaks down housing, food, transport, utilities, and more, helping you budget for expat life in Cambodia. Use our Cost of Living Calculator to get a personalized estimate.

Overview of Cambodia Living Expenses

Cambodia offers affordability without sacrificing quality of life. In 2025, Phnom Penh ranks 123rd out of 226 cities in the Mercer Cost of Living Survey, reflecting moderate costs compared to Western countries. A single expat can live comfortably on $900-$1,200/month in Phnom Penh, even on $500-$700 in smaller cities like Siem Reap or Kampot. Rural areas drop to $400-$600 for a simple lifestyle. Your budget depends on location, housing, and lifestyle — budget, moderate, or luxury.

Housing Costs in Cambodia

Housing is the biggest expense. Costs vary by city and neighborhood. For details, see our Housing Guide.

Phnom Penh

  • Studio: $200-$400 in expat areas like BKK1 or Russian Market.
  • 1-Bedroom: $300-$600; $500-$800 in premium areas like Riverside.
  • 2-Bedroom: $500-$900.
  • Local areas (e.g., Toul Kork): $150-$300 for basic apartments.

Siem Reap and Other Cities

  • Studio: $200-$400 in Sihanoukville; $150-$300 in Siem Reap; $100-$200 in Kampot.
  • 1-Bedroom: $200-$500.
  • Rural areas: $100-$300 for houses or villas.

Furnished rentals often include basics (AC, fridge). Buying property starts at $50,000 for condos, with high rental yields.

Food and Groceries

Food is affordable:

  • Street Food: $1-$2/meal (e.g., noodle soup).
  • Local Restaurants: $2-$5; Western meals: $6-$15.
  • Groceries: $100-$300/month. Local markets (e.g., Toul Tompoung) are cheapest; Western supermarkets cost more.

Transportation Costs

Getting around is inexpensive:

  • Tuk-Tuk: $2-$4/ride in Phnom Penh; $1-$2 via PassApp or Grab.
  • Motorbike Rental: $50-$100/month; buying: $500-$1,200.
  • Public Buses: $0.25/ride (limited).

Utilities and Connectivity

Utilities are low:

  • Electricity: $50-$100/month (higher with AC).
  • Water: $5-$10; garbage: $2.
  • Internet: $15-$30 for 20-50 Mbps, great for nomads.
  • Mobile Data: $10 for basic plans; $1/GB.

Healthcare and Insurance

Private clinics serve expats, as public hospitals may lack standards:

  • Consultation: $25-$50 at international clinics.
  • Health Insurance: $100-$200/month for full coverage.

Entertainment and Lifestyle

Leisure is cheap:

  • Dining Out/Nightlife: $15-$30/night; draft beer: $0.50.
  • Gym Membership: $20-$60/month.
  • Movies: $4-$6/ticket.

Sample Expat Budgets

A moderate monthly budget for a single expat in Phnom Penh (2025):

  • Rent (1-Bedroom, BKK1): $400
  • Utilities: $80
  • Food/Groceries: $200
  • Transport: $50
  • Entertainment: $150
  • Total: $880

Siem Reap or Kampot: $600-$800. Couples or luxury hit $1,500-$2,000.

Tips to Save on Cambodia Living Costs

  • Shop Local: Buy produce at markets like Toul Tompoung for $1/kg.
  • Rent Smart: Choose Toul Kork or Russian Market for $100-$200 savings. See our Housing Guide.
  • Use PassApp: Ride-hailing coupons cut transport costs.
  • Learn Khmer: Bargaining reduces “expat tax” in markets.

Try our Cambodia Cost of Living Calculator to plan your budget.