Cost of Living in Cambodia: A Complete Guide for Expats, Nomads, and Retirees
Cambodia has become a rising star in Southeast Asia for expats, digital nomads, and retirees seeking an affordable yet vibrant lifestyle. From the ancient temples of Siem Reap to the growing skyline of Phnom Penh, the country offers a unique blend of cultural richness, low living expenses, and a welcoming expat community.
This guide dives deep into the cost of living in Cambodia for 2025, backed by trusted data sources like Numbeo, Foyer Global Health, and Aparthotel. Whether you’re planning a long-term move or a temporary stay, understanding the real costs from rent and groceries to healthcare and transport can help you budget wisely and live comfortably.
Overview: How Affordable is Life in Cambodia?
Cambodia remains one of the most budget-friendly countries in Southeast Asia. With a cost of living index significantly lower than neighboring Thailand and Vietnam (TheGlobalEconomy.com), it offers an appealing lifestyle for a fraction of the price found in Western nations.
| Profile | Monthly Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Expat (modest) | $700–$1,000 |
| Digital Nomad (comfortable) | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Family of 4 (average) | $1,500–$2,500 |
Economic growth and foreign investment have increased some prices, especially in urban centers. However, Cambodia’s affordability still outpaces global averages, especially for those earning foreign income.
Housing Costs in Cambodia
Housing is typically the largest expense for expats, but it’s highly affordable compared to Western standards.
Rental Prices
| Location | 1-Bedroom (City Center) | 1-Bedroom (Outskirts) | 3-Bedroom (Center) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | $350–$600 | $200–$350 | $800–$1,500 |
| Siem Reap | $250–$400 | $150–$250 | $500–$800 |
| Sihanoukville | $300–$500 | $180–$300 | $700–$1,200 |
Most apartments include air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and basic furniture. Long-term rentals often offer better deals than short stays.
Buying Property
Expats cannot directly own land but can purchase condos or lease land under certain legal frameworks. The average price per square meter in Phnom Penh’s city center is around $2,500, while suburban areas average $1,200–$1,700. The rise of boreys (affordable gated communities) has also created options for middle-income earners (Aparthotel).
Food and Grocery Expenses
Cambodia caters to all tastes, from $1 street food meals to upscale Western restaurants.
Dining Out
- Street food: $1–$2 per dish (fried noodles, soups, rice meals)
- Local restaurant: $3–$5 per meal
- Mid-range restaurant (two people): $15–$25
- Western chains (Burger King, Pizza Company): $6–$10 per person
Groceries (Average Prices)
| Item | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rice (1kg) | $1.00 |
| Chicken (1kg) | $3.00–$4.50 |
| Eggs (12) | $1.50–$2.00 |
| Milk (1L) | $1.50 |
| Bread (loaf) | $1.20–$2.00 |
| Bananas (1kg) | $0.75 |
Monthly grocery costs range from $100–$200 for a single person and $250–$400 for a family, depending on dietary habits and the balance between imported and local items.
Utilities, Internet, and Mobile Costs
Utility bills are manageable, especially if you monitor electricity use during hot seasons.
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Electricity & Water (1-bedroom) | $50–$80 |
| Garbage Collection | Included or <$5 |
| Internet (unlimited) | $10–$20 |
| Mobile Data Plan (5–10GB) | $5–$10 |
Many locals and expats use Smart or Metfone for reliable mobile services, and providers like EZECOM for home internet.
Transportation and Getting Around
Cambodia’s transport is cheap and varied. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have growing bus networks, while tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps like PassApp and Grab are common.
| Mode of Transport | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk (3–5 km) | $1–$2.50 |
| Bus fare (one-way) | $0.50 |
| Monthly public pass | $10–$15 |
| Taxi start fare | $1.00 + $0.50/km |
| Gasoline (1 litre) | $1.10–$1.30 |
Owning a car is possible but less practical due to traffic congestion and limited parking in urban areas.
Healthcare, Education, and Childcare
Healthcare for expats varies by need and location. Private clinics in Phnom Penh offer good quality care, but insurance is essential.
- Doctor visit: $20–$60 (private clinic)
- Health insurance: $50–$150/month (expat policies)
- Prescription meds: Affordable, widely available
Education can be costly. International schools charge from $3,000–$10,000 per year, depending on the curriculum. Local preschool or daycare averages $150–$400/month.
For a breakdown, Foyer Global Health offers a helpful guide to Cambodia’s healthcare and living costs.
Leisure, Fitness, and Lifestyle Expenses
- Gym membership: $30–$60/month (premium gyms)
- Cinema ticket: $4–$7
- Clothing (casual outfit): $25–$50
- Haircut (men/women): $3–$10
Socializing is inexpensive, with many rooftop bars and cafes offering drinks under $2 during happy hours.
Regional Differences in Cost of Living
| City | Living Cost Summary |
|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | Highest cost, most amenities, growing middle class |
| Siem Reap | Mid-range, tourist-driven, peaceful and cultural |
| Sihanoukville | Rising prices, major Chinese investment, port economy |
| Rural Areas | Extremely affordable, limited services, great for budgeting |
Phnom Penh offers modern conveniences but at a price, while rural areas trade luxury for simplicity and affordability.
Salaries, Purchasing Power, and Affordability
| Job Sector | Average Net Salary (USD/month) |
|---|---|
| English Teacher | $900–$1,500 |
| Tech/Remote Worker | $1,500–$3,000+ |
| Hospitality/Tourism | $300–$800 |
The average Cambodian salary is under $400/month, which drives the low cost of living. For foreigners earning internationally, Cambodia offers strong purchasing power. Mortgage rates for expats range from 6%–9% annually, with financing available for long-term residents (Numbeo).
Conclusion
Cambodia stands out in Southeast Asia as a budget-friendly yet culturally rich destination. Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking a low-cost base, a retiree looking for simplicity, or a family exploring international schooling options, Cambodia provides excellent value for your money.
To stay informed, consult up-to-date resources such as:
- Numbeo for live cost data
- Foyer Global Health for insurance and healthcare insights
- Aparthotel for real estate and housing market analysis
Understanding local economics, budgeting wisely, and staying flexible can help you thrive in Cambodia one of Asia’s most underrated gems.