Cost of Living in Cambodia 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers
Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is known for its rich history, Angkor temples, tropical landscapes, and warm hospitality. Cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville attract expats, students, digital nomads, and retirees due to the country’s affordable living costs and growing infrastructure. Understanding the cost of living in Cambodia helps newcomers plan budgets and adapt to daily life comfortably.
Learn more about the country here: Cambodia.
Cost of Living in Cambodia: Summary Table
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Estimated Cost (KHR) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Cost (Single Person) | $700 – $1,200 | KHR (varies) |
| Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four) | $1,500 – $2,600 | KHR |
| Rent Range | $250 – $900 | KHR |
| Food Cost (Monthly) | $180 – $280 | KHR |
| Transport Cost | $20 – $50 | KHR |
| Utilities | $40 – $90 | KHR |
| Healthcare | $10 – $40 per visit | KHR |
| Education | $400 – $3,000 annually | KHR |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $20 – $60 | KHR |
Housing & Rent Prices in Cambodia
3.1 Apartment Rent (Monthly)
- 1-bedroom in city center: $350 – $550
- 1-bedroom outside center: $250 – $400
- 3-bedroom in city center: $700 – $900
- 3-bedroom outside center: $450 – $700
3.2 Buying Property
Foreigners can own apartments but not land in Cambodia. Property prices vary significantly, with Phnom Penh being the most expensive and Siem Reap more affordable.
Food & Grocery Costs
Cambodia offers a mix of inexpensive local markets and modern supermarkets. Local fruits, vegetables, and street food are especially budget-friendly.
- Milk (1 liter): $1.50 – $2.20
- Bread (loaf): $0.80 – $1.20
- Rice (1 kg): $1.00 – $1.50
- Eggs (12): $1.50 – $2.20
- Chicken (1 kg): $3.00 – $5.00
- Beef (1 kg): $6.00 – $10.00
- Bananas (1 kg): $0.70 – $1.20
- Tomatoes (1 kg): $1.00 – $1.80
- Bottled water (1.5 L): $0.50 – $0.90
- Soft drinks: $0.60 – $1.00
Monthly grocery estimate:
- Single person: $180 – $240
- Family of four: $300 – $450
Restaurant & Dining Costs
- Inexpensive meal: $2 – $4
- Mid-range restaurant (two people): $10 – $25
- Fast food combo: $4 – $6
- Coffee: $1.20 – $2.50
- Fresh juice: $1.00 – $2.00
Transportation Costs
Cambodia’s transport options include tuk-tuks, motorbike rentals, buses, and private taxis.
- One-way local transport ticket: $0.40 – $1.00
- Monthly motorbike rental: $40 – $70
- Tuk-tuk ride (short distance): $1 – $2
- Taxi (per km): $0.70 – $1.20
- Fuel (per liter): $1.10 – $1.40
Optional transport costs:
- Motorbike maintenance: $5 – $15
- Intercity bus: $6 – $15
Utility Costs
- Electricity: $25 – $50
- Water: $5 – $10
- Gas: $6 – $10
- Internet: $15 – $30
- Mobile plans: $3 – $8
Healthcare Costs
Cambodia offers both public hospitals and private clinics, with expats often preferring international hospitals in Phnom Penh.
- Doctor visit: $10 – $20
- Specialist visit: $20 – $40
- Medicines: $2 – $10
Education Costs
- Public schools: low-cost
- Private schools: $400 – $3,000 annually
- International schools: higher-cost options
Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses
- Gym membership: $20 – $40
- Movie ticket: $3 – $6
- Yoga class: $5 – $8
- Nightlife: $5 – $15 per outing
Cost of Living for Different Groups
11.1 Cost of Living for Singles
Singles usually spend $700 – $1,200 depending on housing and lifestyle.
11.2 Cost of Living for Couples
Couples generally need $1,200 – $1,800 per month.
11.3 Cost of Living for Families
A family of four often spends $1,500 – $2,600 depending on schooling choices.
11.4 Cost of Living for Students
Students can live comfortably on $400 – $700 per month.
11.5 Cost of Living for Expats
Expats typically spend $1,000 – $2,000 monthly, depending on preferred city and amenities.
Comparison With Other Countries
- Cambodia vs Thailand: Cambodia is cheaper for rent but similar for food.
- Cambodia vs Vietnam: Vietnam is slightly cheaper overall.
- Cambodia vs Philippines: Cambodia is comparable in groceries but cheaper in transportation.
Pros & Cons of Living in Cambodia
Pros
- Affordable lifestyle
- Warm culture and friendly locals
- Good for digital nomads
- Low taxes for foreigners
Cons
- Traffic congestion in Phnom Penh
- Imported goods can be expensive
- Healthcare limited outside major cities
Final Summary
Cambodia offers an affordable, culturally rich, and convenient lifestyle for expats, students, and digital nomads. With low food prices, budget-friendly housing, and a welcoming environment, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable life in Southeast Asia. While some imported goods and services can be costly, everyday expenses remain manageable across the country.
Explore more Cambodia resources:
- Best Cities in Cambodia
- Best Places to Visit in Cambodia
- Top Universities in Cambodia
- Best Shopping Malls in Cambodia
- Best National Parks in Cambodia
- Best Hospitals in Cambodia
- Best Hotels in Cambodia
FAQs
Is Cambodia expensive to live in?
No, Cambodia is considered affordable, especially for food, housing, and transportation.
How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Cambodia?
A monthly income of $900 – $1,500 is suitable for most individuals.
What is the average rent in Cambodia?
Rent typically ranges from $250 to $900 depending on the city and apartment size.
Is Cambodia good for expats?
Yes, Cambodia is popular with expats due to its low cost of living, friendly atmosphere, and flexible visa options.
Is Cambodia cheaper than Thailand?
Yes, Cambodia is generally cheaper than Thailand for rent and transportation.
