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Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Capital City

Follows Cambodia Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,300
Retiree Score
45.0
Safety Index
60.4
Healthcare
—

The capital city of Cambodia boasts a population of 457,000, but living in Phnom Penh is no easy feat. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the tropical climate subjects residents to sweltering temperatures year-round. Despite recent development, the city remains a hub of economic disparity, with over 100,000 people living in slums as of 2012. Phnom Penh may appeal to those drawn to its cultural richness and economic opportunities, but it's a challenging environment for the average expat.

Can I afford Phnom Penh?

$

Phnom Penh

You could save

1,700/mo

Savings Rate57%

Monthly Costs

Rent $650
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$650

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
57/100
Retiree Score
(i)
45/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Cambodia Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
60
Safety
0
Healthcare
50
Walkability
50
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$5
Meal (Mid-range) $92
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $113
Mobile Plan (mo) $8
Gym (mo) *$41
Cinema Ticket $5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $520
1BR Outside (mo) *$218
3BR Center (mo) $1,120
3BR Outside (mo) *$419

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
BKK1, Tonle Bassac, Tuol Tom Poung
Best For
entrepreneurs, NGO workers

Expat Life Notes

A rapidly developing capital with a very vibrant expat scene and high quality of life for a relatively low cost.

Pros

  • ✓ Vibrant cafe and bar culture
  • ✓ High quality expat housing
  • ✓ Affordable cost of living

Cons

  • ✗ High humidity
  • ✗ Petty crime in tourist areas
  • ✗ Dust and traffic

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
2239 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Ta Khmau, CambodiaLiving in Ta Khmau, Cambodia offers a quieter, affordable base near Phnom Penh. Ideal for expats seeking proximity to the capital without the chaos.Siem Reap, CambodiaAttractiveness Score: 47.0Alvorada, BrazilLiving in Alvorada, Brazil offers affordability but comes with high crime and daily friction. Best for commuters to Porto Alegre, not retirees or nomads.Três Lagoas, BrazilLiving in Três Lagoas, Brazil offers a low-cost, balanced lifestyle with southern Brazilian culture. Ideal for expats seeking affordability and simplicity.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Phnom Penh

Click any question to expand the answer.

Phnom Penh has a population of approximately 457,000 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,625 per month in Phnom Penh, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $650/month.

The nearest airport to Phnom Penh is PNH, approximately 9km away.

Phnom Penh is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 60.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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