Cost of living in Cambodia for expats
A realistic monthly budget for one person living comfortably in Cambodia — rent, food, transport, and everyday costs in Phnom Penh.
$900–1,400
One person, all-in, in Phnom Penh
$350–700
1-bedroom city-centre apartment, per month
Budget
under ~$1,500/mo
What makes Cambodia stand out, and what to watch for
Why expats choose Cambodia
One of the cheapest comfortable bases in Southeast Asia — the dollar is widely accepted alongside the riel, long-stay business visas are easy to extend, and Phnom Penh has a growing café-and-coworking scene.
Watch out for
Infrastructure outside the capital is basic, the healthcare system is thin (most expats fly to Bangkok for anything beyond routine care), and the rainy season floods low-lying Phnom Penh streets.
Costs vary a lot by city, neighbourhood, and lifestyle — these are directional monthly bands for the main expat city, current as of 2026. Treat them as a starting point, not a quote. Information only, not financial advice.
Cost of living elsewhere in Asia
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