Cost of Living in Cambodia 2026: Rent, Food, Salaries and Monthly Expenses
The cost of living in Cambodia in 2026 can be affordable for people who rent modest accommodation, eat local food and manage transportation carefully. However, expenses vary considerably between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and smaller towns. Imported groceries, air conditioning, private healthcare and international schools can make living in Cambodia more expensive than newcomers expect.
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A single person renting independently may need approximately KHR 2.4 million to KHR 4.9 million (US$600 to US$1,200) per month, including rent. A couple may budget KHR 4.1 million to KHR 7.3 million (US$1,000 to US$1,800), while a family of four can require KHR 7.3 million to KHR 14.2 million (US$1,800 to US$3,500) or substantially more if children attend premium international schools.
These are estimated planning ranges, not official national household averages. A person sharing accommodation in a smaller city may spend less, while a family renting a large Phnom Penh apartment with private schooling may spend considerably more.
Cambodia's national currency is the Cambodian riel (KHR), although US dollars are widely used for property rentals and many commercial transactions. This guide uses riel as the primary currency and provides approximate US dollar equivalents for practical comparison.
Cost of Living in Cambodia at a Glance
Living costs in Cambodia depend most heavily on rent, location, household size, transportation and education choices. The following table provides indicative 2026 amounts using approximately KHR 4,000 per US$1 for easy budgeting.
| Expense | Estimated Cost (KHR) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| Single person excluding rent | 1,600,000 to 3,000,000 monthly | $400 to $750 |
| Single person including rent | 2,400,000 to 4,800,000 monthly | $600 to $1,200 |
| Couple including rent | 4,000,000 to 7,200,000 monthly | $1,000 to $1,800 |
| Family of four including rent | 7,200,000 to 14,000,000+ monthly | $1,800 to $3,500+ |
| One-bedroom apartment outside city centre | 800,000 to 2,000,000 monthly | $200 to $500 |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | 1,400,000 to 3,200,000 monthly | $350 to $800 |
| Three-bedroom city-centre apartment | 3,200,000 to 8,800,000 monthly | $800 to $2,200 |
| Single-person groceries | 600,000 to 1,000,000 monthly | $150 to $250 |
| Basic apartment utilities | 240,000 to 600,000 monthly | $60 to $150 |
| Home internet | 48,000 to 136,000 monthly | $12 to $34 |
| Mobile plan | 16,000 to 40,000 monthly | $4 to $10 |
| Inexpensive restaurant meal | 10,000 to 36,000 | $2.50 to $9 |
| Petrol, one litre | 4,000 to 6,200 | $1 to $1.55 |
These figures are rounded budgeting estimates informed by 2026 consumer-price observations, particularly Numbeo's Cambodia and Phnom Penh datasets. They are not fixed government prices or guaranteed quotations. The actual exchange rate also varies.
The General Department of Taxation published an official exchange rate of KHR 4,067 per US$1 on 19 October 2026. Using KHR 4,000 in the table keeps comparisons simple but does not represent the precise rate on that date.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Cambodia Per Month?
A single renter in Cambodia may need approximately KHR 2.4 million to KHR 4.8 million ($600 to $1,200) per month, including accommodation, food, utilities, internet, transport and normal personal spending. This amount increases with central-city housing, frequent international dining and private medical insurance.
Practical monthly planning ranges include:
- Budget-conscious single person: KHR 2.4 million to KHR 3.2 million ($600 to $800), including modest rent.
- Moderate single person: KHR 3.6 million to KHR 4.8 million ($900 to $1,200), including independent accommodation.
- Couple: KHR 4 million to KHR 7.2 million ($1,000 to $1,800), including shared rent.
- Family of four: KHR 7.2 million to KHR 14 million or more ($1,800 to $3,500+), including rent and an allowance for ordinary family expenses. Premium international schools may raise costs substantially.
- Student sharing accommodation: Approximately KHR 1.6 million to KHR 2.8 million ($400 to $700), excluding tuition fees, depending on location and lifestyle.
These examples assume ordinary urban living rather than luxury accommodation. They do not include substantial savings, international flights, major medical emergencies, expensive school registration fees or purchasing a vehicle.
Housing and Rent Prices in Cambodia
Rent is one of the largest expenses for new residents. A one-bedroom apartment can cost approximately KHR 800,000 to KHR 3.2 million ($200 to $800) monthly, depending on the city, neighbourhood, condition and amenities.
Phnom Penh generally has higher rents in central expatriate neighbourhoods, while Siem Reap and many provincial towns offer less expensive options.
Average Apartment Rent in Phnom Penh
| Property Type | Estimated Monthly Rent (KHR) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | 1,600,000 to 4,760,000 | $400 to $1,190 |
| One-bedroom apartment outside city centre | 980,000 to 2,080,000 | $245 to $520 |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | 3,200,000 to 8,800,000 | $800 to $2,200 |
| Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre | 2,000,000 to 5,840,000 | $500 to $1,460 |
Numbeo's June 2026 Phnom Penh dataset reported average rents of approximately $641 for a centrally located one-bedroom apartment, $372 outside the centre, $1,228 for a central three-bedroom apartment and $747 for a three-bedroom apartment outside the centre.
These averages come from user submissions. Actual listings should be checked before signing a contract.
Rent in Siem Reap and Other Areas
Siem Reap may offer better rental value than central Phnom Penh. Expatistan's October 2026 comparison indicated that comparable furnished accommodation in ordinary areas of Siem Reap could cost around 21% less than in Phnom Penh. However, its underlying data has limitations, and price differences depend on the individual property.
Sihanoukville, Kampot, Battambang and smaller towns also have distinct rental markets. Prices can be influenced by tourism, local employment, nearby development and seasonal demand.
Rental Deposits and Hidden Housing Charges
New tenants should confirm the following before paying a deposit:
- Security deposit and advance rent requirements.
- Electricity charges per kilowatt-hour.
- Whether water, internet and waste collection are billed separately.
- Air-conditioning condition and maintenance responsibilities.
- Building service charges and parking costs.
- Lease termination rules and deposit refund conditions.
Electricity billed by a landlord or apartment management company may be more expensive than a direct utility account. This can significantly affect the overall value of a supposedly inexpensive apartment.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Cambodia?
Foreign nationals generally cannot directly own land in Cambodia. However, qualifying ownership of private units in registered co-owned buildings is permitted under specific legal conditions, including restrictions on ground-floor ownership and foreign ownership proportions.
Foreigners considering a condominium should obtain independent legal advice and verify the property's title, registration and ownership eligibility. Property purchase prices should not be confused with ordinary monthly rental expenses.
Food and Grocery Costs in Cambodia
A single person may spend approximately KHR 600,000 to KHR 1 million ($150 to $250) monthly on groceries. A family of four may need KHR 1.6 million to KHR 2.8 million ($400 to $700), depending on food preferences and how often meals are prepared at home.
Local markets can offer affordable vegetables, rice, fruit and fresh ingredients. Imported cheeses, branded cereals, foreign snacks and certain dairy products can be relatively expensive.
Typical Grocery Prices
| Product | Indicative Price (KHR) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| Milk, 1 litre | 6,400 to 16,000 | $1.60 to $4 |
| White bread, 500 g | 4,000 to 20,000 | $1 to $5 |
| Rice, 1 kg | 4,000 to 8,000 | $1 to $2 |
| Eggs, 12 | 6,000 to 12,000 | $1.50 to $3 |
| Chicken, 1 kg | 12,000 to 24,000 | $3 to $6 |
| Bananas, 1 kg | 4,000 to 10,000 | $1 to $2.50 |
| Tomatoes, 1 kg | 4,000 to 12,000 | $1 to $3 |
| Bottled water, 1.5 litres | 2,000 to 6,000 | $0.50 to $1.50 |
These are illustrative retail ranges, not verified prices from a specific supermarket. Shop location, origin, season and product quality influence actual costs.
Households can often reduce food expenses by shopping at local markets, choosing seasonal produce and cooking Cambodian dishes rather than relying entirely on imported ingredients.
Restaurant and Eating Out Costs
Eating out can be inexpensive in Cambodia, particularly at local restaurants and food stalls. A basic meal can cost approximately KHR 10,000 to KHR 36,000 ($2.50 to $9), while international restaurants and premium dining cost more.
| Restaurant Expense | Approximate Cost (KHR) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Inexpensive restaurant meal | 10,000 to 36,000 | $2.50 to $9 |
| Mid-range three-course meal for two | 100,000 to 268,000 | $25 to $67 |
| Fast-food combination meal | 24,000 to 32,000 | $6 to $8 |
| Cappuccino | 8,000 to 14,000 | $2 to $3.50 |
| Soft drink at a restaurant | 4,000 to 12,000 | $1 to $3 |
| Small bottled water at a restaurant | 2,000 to 11,000 | $0.50 to $2.75 |
These ranges are based mainly on Phnom Penh market observations in June 2026. Siem Reap's tourist districts and upscale international restaurants may also command higher prices than ordinary neighbourhood eateries.
Utility Costs: Electricity, Water and Air Conditioning
Basic utilities for an apartment in Cambodia may cost approximately KHR 240,000 to KHR 600,000 ($60 to $150) monthly. Bills vary considerably according to property size, electricity tariffs and air-conditioning use.
Numbeo's June 2026 observations put basic utilities for an 85-square-metre apartment in Phnom Penh near $110 per month, with a reported range of approximately $65 to $213.
Air conditioning is often the most important variable. A larger home with several units running every night can have a substantially higher electricity bill than a small apartment using fans.
Residents should request recent electricity bills and confirm the property's charging method before signing a lease.
Internet and Mobile Phone Costs
Internet and mobile connectivity are comparatively affordable in Cambodia. A mobile plan may cost KHR 16,000 to KHR 40,000 ($4 to $10) per month, while home broadband can cost approximately KHR 48,000 to KHR 136,000 ($12 to $34).
Numbeo's June 2026 data reported an average Phnom Penh mobile plan near $7.64 and broadband near $25.23 per month. Siem Reap's reported broadband average was lower.
Coverage, speed, reliability and building connectivity vary. Remote workers should test the internet connection at their intended accommodation instead of relying solely on advertised speed.
Transportation Costs in Cambodia
Transportation in Cambodia can be inexpensive for residents who use public buses, shared rides or short tuk-tuk journeys. However, daily private taxis, long commutes or vehicle ownership can increase costs substantially.
| Transport Expense | Estimated Cost (KHR) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| Local public bus journey | 1,500 to 4,000 | $0.38 to $1 |
| Short tuk-tuk journey | 4,000 to 12,000 | $1 to $3 |
| Taxi, one kilometre | 3,000 to 5,000 | $0.75 to $1.25 |
| Petrol, one litre | 4,000 to 6,200 | $1 to $1.55 |
| Illustrative monthly local transport budget | 120,000 to 400,000 | $30 to $100 |
Phnom Penh has a public bus network, but route coverage and service frequency should be checked. Tuk-tuks, app-based ride-hailing and motorcycles remain common forms of transport.
Is Public Transport Free in Cambodia?
No, public transport is not universally free in Cambodia. Ordinary passengers generally pay for public buses, while eligible groups may have access to concessions or exemptions on selected services. Current fares and eligibility should be confirmed with the relevant transport operator.
A low-cost accommodation choice may become expensive if it requires multiple long journeys each day.
Healthcare Costs and Insurance in Cambodia
Healthcare in Cambodia is not automatically free for every resident or foreign national. Public services, private clinics and employer-linked social health protection operate under different eligibility and charging arrangements.
Some workers registered with Cambodia's National Social Security Fund (NSSF) can access covered healthcare through contracted facilities. However, this coverage should not be confused with universal free treatment for all expatriates.
National Social Security Fund Healthcare
The NSSF healthcare scheme provides eligible registered workers with specified medical benefits, including covered treatment, hospital care, prescribed medicines and certain allowances, subject to its rules and participating facilities.
According to the NSSF's published healthcare scheme guidance, employer-funded healthcare contributions have been part of the system since 2018. Eligibility and benefits depend on registration and applicable regulations.
Employees should ask their employer to confirm NSSF registration, coverage status and access to contracted hospitals.
Private Healthcare Costs
Private consultations may cost tens of US dollars, while specialist examinations, imaging, hospital admissions and procedures can be substantially more expensive. Prices depend on the facility, clinician and treatment.
Rather than relying on a single consultation-price estimate, foreign residents should request current insurance quotations covering hospitalisation, emergencies, outpatient services and medical evacuation where appropriate.
Healthcare availability also differs geographically. Phnom Penh has a wider range of private and specialist facilities than many rural areas.
Official source: National Social Security Fund Healthcare Scheme.
Education and Childcare Costs in Cambodia
Education costs in Cambodia vary greatly between public schools, local private schools and international institutions. International education is one of the most important expenses for expatriate families.
Public Schools
Cambodia provides public education through its national school system. However, families relocating from abroad should check enrolment eligibility, language of instruction, available places and any administrative requirements directly with the school.
Even when tuition is limited, uniforms, transport, supplies and additional educational support may create household expenses.
Private and International Schools
| Education Expense | Indicative Cost (KHR) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| Private full-day preschool in Phnom Penh | 1.8 million to 3.8 million monthly | $443 to $945 |
| International primary school in Phnom Penh | 16 million to 116 million annually | $4,000 to $29,000 |
| International primary school in Siem Reap | Varies substantially | Market average around $5,400 annually |
In Numbeo's June 2026 observations, international primary-school tuition averaged approximately $10,988 annually in Phnom Penh, compared with about $5,393 in Siem Reap. Samples are limited and do not substitute for quotations from individual schools.
Additional costs can include registration fees, refundable deposits, uniforms, school buses, examinations and extracurricular activities.
Salaries and Employment Income in Cambodia
Income levels in Cambodia differ significantly between local service employment, manufacturing, professional roles and international companies. The difference between local wages and expatriate spending expectations is especially important when evaluating affordability.
Numbeo's June 2026 Phnom Penh dataset reported an average net monthly salary of approximately $324. This is a crowdsourced observation, not a representative official national wage figure.
It would be misleading to conclude that all workers can comfortably afford the independent rental budgets commonly advertised to foreigners.
Minimum Wage in Cambodia in 2026
The statutory minimum wage in Cambodia for 2026 is US$210 per month (approximately KHR 840,000 using the rounded planning exchange rate) for regular workers in specified textile, garment, footwear, travel goods and bag industries. Probationary workers in those industries receive US$208 per month.
The 2026 wage took effect on 1 January 2026. It increased from US$208 for regular workers in 2025.
Importantly, this sector-specific minimum wage should not be described as a universal minimum applicable to every employee in Cambodia.
Eligible workers may also receive additional benefits, including certain attendance, accommodation, transport and seniority-related allowances, depending on applicable rules.
On 30 September 2026, Cambodia announced a further increase to US$212 for covered regular workers beginning 1 January 2027. The 2027 figure is not the current minimum wage for October 2026.
A minimum monthly wage of $210 is far below the cost of a typical independent apartment and expatriate-style living arrangement in central Phnom Penh. Shared housing, family support and employer benefits can therefore make a substantial difference to lower-income households.
Sources: Agence Kampuchea Presse, 2026 Wage Announcement and 2027 Minimum Wage Announcement.
Income Tax and Everyday Affordability
Cambodia imposes tax on salary, so gross salary should not automatically be treated as take-home pay. The applicable rate depends on tax residence, taxable salary and relevant legislation.
Resident employees are subject to progressive monthly salary tax rates from 0% to 20%, while non-resident employees are generally subject to a flat 20% rate on taxable Cambodian-source salary. Fringe benefits may also attract taxation.
Tax residence depends on legal criteria, including the duration of presence in Cambodia. Having a foreign passport does not automatically mean that an individual is a non-resident taxpayer.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance publishes current monthly salary tax brackets. Employees should verify payroll withholding and any applicable dependent allowances rather than relying on simplified online salary calculators.
Sources: Ministry of Economy and Finance, Monthly Salary Tax Brackets and General Department of Taxation.
Realistic Monthly Budget Examples for Cambodia
The following four monthly budgets use rounded amounts in Cambodian riel. Each budget includes rent and the listed recurring expenses. The figures are practical planning examples, not official household surveys.
Budget-Conscious Single Person
This example assumes a modest rental property, mostly local meals, limited leisure and economical transportation.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (KHR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 900,000 |
| Utilities | 250,000 |
| Groceries | 650,000 |
| Transportation | 180,000 |
| Internet and mobile | 100,000 |
| Healthcare or insurance allowance | 200,000 |
| Dining, leisure and miscellaneous | 220,000 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | 2,500,000 |
Approximate equivalent: $625 per month.
Moderate Single Person
This scenario assumes independent accommodation in a convenient urban location, frequent air-conditioning use and a larger discretionary allowance.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (KHR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 2,000,000 |
| Utilities | 420,000 |
| Groceries | 900,000 |
| Transportation | 300,000 |
| Internet and mobile | 140,000 |
| Healthcare or insurance allowance | 300,000 |
| Dining, leisure and miscellaneous | 500,000 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | 4,560,000 |
Approximate equivalent: $1,140 per month.
Couple Living in Cambodia
This budget assumes two adults sharing accommodation, basic utilities and regular household costs, without dependent children.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (KHR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 2,200,000 |
| Utilities | 500,000 |
| Groceries | 1,200,000 |
| Transportation | 450,000 |
| Internet and mobile | 180,000 |
| Healthcare or insurance allowance | 550,000 |
| Dining, leisure and miscellaneous | 650,000 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | 5,730,000 |
Approximate equivalent: $1,433 per month.
Family of Four
This scenario assumes two adults and two children, family-sized accommodation and a moderate education allowance. It does not assume premium international-school tuition.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (KHR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 3,200,000 |
| Utilities | 650,000 |
| Groceries | 2,200,000 |
| Transportation | 650,000 |
| Internet and mobile | 220,000 |
| Healthcare or insurance allowance | 900,000 |
| Dining, leisure and miscellaneous | 700,000 |
| Education allowance | 2,000,000 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | 10,520,000 |
Approximate equivalent: $2,630 per month.
Without the education allowance, the illustrated family budget would be KHR 8,520,000 ($2,130) monthly. Premium international schools, multiple vehicles or high-cost medical coverage may increase the total significantly.
All four examples exclude one-off relocation expenses, debt repayments, major medical treatment, university tuition, international flights, savings targets and large vehicle purchases. Insurance amounts are budgeting provisions rather than insurer quotations.
Cost of Living Differences by City
The cost of living in Cambodia varies by city and neighbourhood. Phnom Penh is the country's main commercial centre, while Siem Reap has a tourism-oriented economy and different accommodation options.
| Location | Main Cost Considerations |
|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | Higher central rent, international education, employment opportunities and urban amenities |
| Siem Reap | Potentially lower ordinary housing costs, tourism-related price differences and fewer premium school options |
| Sihanoukville | Rental availability, construction activity, local demand and neighbourhood variation |
| Kampot | Smaller-town accommodation, limited specialised services and transportation needs |
| Battambang | Potentially modest housing costs, local markets and access to employment |
| Rural provinces | Lower-cost local housing may be available, but specialist healthcare, international education and reliable connectivity can be less accessible |
Although some comparisons suggest Siem Reap has cheaper housing than Phnom Penh, individual properties can reverse this pattern. A small data sample cannot establish a reliable percentage difference for every Cambodian city.
Cambodia Compared With Thailand, Vietnam and Laos
Cambodia is frequently considered an affordable Southeast Asian destination, but it is not automatically cheaper than Thailand, Vietnam or Laos for every household expense.
Cambodia vs Thailand
Housing in smaller Cambodian towns can cost less than apartments in central Bangkok. However, some Thai cities offer competitive rentals, well-developed healthcare options and more extensive urban public transportation.
Comparing Phnom Penh with Bangkok produces a different result from comparing Siem Reap with Chiang Mai. Household budgets should account for the actual location rather than national averages alone.
Cambodia vs Vietnam
Vietnam can provide affordable local meals, extensive consumer markets and a broad range of transport options. Cambodia may still offer competitive accommodation prices in selected areas.
Imported products, education and healthcare can change the balance. A precise national percentage difference would be unreliable without comparing equivalent households and recent data.
Cambodia vs Laos
Both Cambodia and Laos have relatively affordable local lifestyles in some locations, but imported products, exchange-rate conditions and available services can make costs vary considerably.
For a meaningful comparison, residents should assess rent, disposable income, healthcare access and schooling in their intended cities.
Hidden Living Costs New Residents Often Overlook
Several expenses are easily missed when comparing Cambodia's advertised monthly living costs.
- Rental deposits: Advance rent and security deposits can make the first month much more expensive.
- Electricity markups: Apartment-managed power tariffs may exceed direct utility rates.
- Air-conditioning: Electricity consumption can rise considerably during hot months.
- Healthcare: Private treatment and international insurance may be expensive.
- School fees: Registration, tuition, transportation, uniforms and extracurricular expenses can add thousands of dollars annually.
- Transport: Daily ride-hailing and longer commutes can offset savings from cheaper suburban rent.
- Imported groceries: International food brands and specialty products can cost more than local alternatives.
- Visa administration: Extensions, sponsorship, documentation and work permits may create recurring or one-off expenses.
- Currency conversion: Exchange rates, banking charges and foreign-card fees can affect disposable income.
- Emergency planning: Residents should maintain reserves for unexpected medical care, travel or changes in employment.
Cost of Living vs Visa and Residency Financial Requirements
Being able to afford Cambodia's living expenses does not automatically grant a foreign national permission to remain, work or study in the country.
Tourist visas, ordinary visas, extensions of stay, work permits and other immigration arrangements have different conditions. Some routes may require employment evidence, sponsorship or supporting documentation.
The monthly budgets in this article are not government-defined immigration income thresholds. No single financial requirement for all foreign residents was established from the official information reviewed.
Foreign nationals should verify the correct visa category and current requirements through the General Department of Immigration and the relevant Cambodian authorities before relocating.
Is Cambodia Affordable for Expats and New Residents?
Cambodia can be affordable for expatriates who have reliable income, modest housing needs and manageable healthcare and education expenses. It may be considerably less affordable for families seeking premium international facilities.
For example, a professional earning $1,500 per month could potentially cover the illustrative moderate single-person budget of $1,140, leaving around $360 before any additional taxes, savings, loan payments or unexpected expenses.
A worker earning the sector-specific minimum of $210 per month would not be able to independently meet that same expatriate-style budget.
The distinction between local wages and expatriate living-cost estimates is important. Claims that Cambodia is inexpensive should always be interpreted alongside realistic earning opportunities.
Practical Conclusion
The cost of living in Cambodia in 2026 can remain manageable with careful housing choices, local food and controlled transportation expenses. A single person renting independently may plan around KHR 2.4 million to KHR 4.8 million monthly, while families may need KHR 7.2 million to KHR 14 million or significantly more.
Phnom Penh provides a broad range of employment, education and healthcare services, but central rentals can be expensive. Siem Reap and smaller cities may offer cheaper accommodation, with differences in facilities and employment opportunities.
Anyone considering relocation should compare actual rental listings, confirm salary after tax, check medical coverage and obtain school quotations where relevant. These steps provide a stronger basis for judging affordability than relying on a single national cost-of-living figure.
Sources and Methodology
This guide was reviewed on 19 October 2026. It combines Cambodia's published March 2026 Visaboards article with more recent consumer-price observations, government wage announcements, tax information, healthcare scheme guidance and official currency data.
The earlier article used US dollars as its main currency and did not provide usable Cambodian-riel amounts in several table entries. This revision uses KHR first, provides approximate USD equivalents and separates costs including rent from those excluding rent.
The National Bank of Cambodia and General Department of Taxation provide official exchange-rate information. On 19 October 2026, the published USD/KHR rate was 4,067. Most comparison calculations in this article use a rounded KHR 4,000 per dollar and are therefore approximate.
Numbeo's June 2026 Phnom Penh dataset reported 531 price entries from 34 contributors over the preceding 12 months. Crowdsourced observations may overrepresent selected neighbourhoods and consumer groups. Expatistan's city comparisons also have methodological and sample limitations.
For those reasons, estimated rents, groceries and household budgets should not be read as precise national averages. Multiple sources were compared where practical, but private healthcare and school charges should be verified with the individual provider.
Sources Used
- Visaboards: Original Cost of Living in Cambodia Article
- Numbeo: Cost of Living in Cambodia
- Numbeo: Cost of Living in Phnom Penh
- Numbeo: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap Comparison
- Expatistan: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap Comparison
- General Department of Taxation: Official Exchange Rates
- Agence Kampuchea Presse: Minimum Wage for 2026
- Agence Kampuchea Presse: Minimum Wage for 2027
- Ministry of Economy and Finance: Monthly Salary Tax Brackets
- National Social Security Fund: Healthcare Scheme
- General Department of Immigration
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Cambodia per month?
A single person renting independently may need approximately KHR 2.4 million to KHR 4.8 million ($600 to $1,200) monthly, including rent, food, utilities and transportation. A couple may budget KHR 4 million to KHR 7.2 million ($1,000 to $1,800). A family of four may need KHR 7.2 million to KHR 14 million ($1,800 to $3,500) or more, especially when paying for private education.
Is Cambodia expensive to live in?
Cambodia can be relatively affordable, especially for residents choosing modest housing, local food and economical transportation. However, central apartments in Phnom Penh, imported groceries, private healthcare and international schools can be expensive. Affordability also depends on income. A lifestyle that is inexpensive for a foreign professional may be difficult to support on an ordinary local wage.
How much is rent in Cambodia in 2026?
A one-bedroom apartment may cost approximately KHR 800,000 to KHR 3.2 million ($200 to $800) monthly, depending on location and quality. Phnom Penh's central apartments are often more expensive than housing in smaller cities. Larger family properties may cost substantially more. Tenants should also budget for security deposits, electricity, internet and possible management charges.
What salary is needed to live comfortably in Cambodia?
A single person renting independently may target a monthly take-home income of approximately $900 to $1,500 or more, depending on lifestyle, savings goals and location. Families generally require higher incomes, particularly when paying for international education and private insurance. These are planning estimates rather than official salary requirements. Income taxes and employer benefits should be considered when comparing job offers.
What is the minimum wage in Cambodia in 2026?
The 2026 minimum wage is $210 per month for regular workers and $208 for probationary workers in specified textile, garment, footwear, travel goods and bag industries. It took effect on 1 January 2026 and does not apply universally to every sector. A further increase to $212 for regular covered workers has been announced for 1 January 2027.
Is healthcare free in Cambodia for foreigners?
No, foreigners should not assume that healthcare is free. Eligible employees registered with Cambodia's National Social Security Fund may access specified healthcare benefits at participating facilities. Other residents may need to pay for consultations, hospitalisation and medicines themselves. Private medical costs vary widely, so expatriates should confirm their insurance and eligibility before relying on public healthcare services.
Is public transportation free in Cambodia?
Public transportation is not universally free in Cambodia. Ordinary passengers generally pay bus fares, while some concessions or exemptions may apply to eligible groups and selected services. Tuk-tuks, taxis and app-based transport are also common. Transport costs depend on journey length, frequency and location. Residents should check current services before relying on public buses for commuting.
How much does a family of four need in Cambodia?
A family of four may budget approximately KHR 7.2 million to KHR 14 million ($1,800 to $3,500) or more per month, including rent. An illustrative family budget with housing, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare and an education allowance totals KHR 10.52 million ($2,630). Premium international schooling or expensive medical coverage may increase the required household income considerably.
Is Phnom Penh more expensive than Siem Reap?
Phnom Penh commonly has higher rental costs for comparable furnished properties, although the difference varies by neighbourhood and property type. Some 2026 consumer-price comparisons indicate cheaper ordinary housing in Siem Reap. Nevertheless, tourist accommodation, international dining and premium facilities in Siem Reap can also be expensive. Residents should compare specific housing listings rather than rely only on average city rankings.
Is Cambodia cheaper than Thailand or Vietnam?
Cambodia can be cheaper than some locations in Thailand and Vietnam, particularly for selected housing arrangements. However, it is not consistently less expensive across every category. Local groceries, transport, healthcare, imported goods and international education can produce different results. Comparing Phnom Penh with Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Ho Chi Minh City requires consideration of salaries, accommodation and household needs.
Can foreigners live in Cambodia without meeting financial requirements?
Foreign nationals must satisfy the conditions of their applicable Cambodian visa or residence category. Tourist permissions, ordinary visa extensions, employment arrangements and study-related stays may have different documentation and sponsorship rules. There is no single monthly living-cost figure that automatically qualifies everyone for residency. Applicants should check the current official requirements before making long-term relocation plans.
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