Living in Phnom Penh
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Cambodia
Monthly Cost
$1,041
Internet
60 Mbps
Safety
4.9/10
Rent (1BR)
$622
Living in Phnom Penh — Quick Take
Best for: Budget travelers
Cost level: Low ($1,041/mo)
Main downside: Safety concerns in some areas
Quick Facts
$1,041/mo
Low4.9/10
Variable60 Mbps
Good$622
Cheap$349/mo
2.1M
Major CityMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Phnom Penh For?
Most remote workers find the setup here manageable.
At around $1,041/month, this is one of the more affordable options.
Reasonable living costs and safety make it viable for retirement.
Want more amenities? Krakow offers a higher standard.
Best Neighborhoods in Phnom Penh
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — BKK1 tops the list at /10
Prime expat-friendly district in Phnom Penh known for its international restaurants, cafes, coworking spaces, and modern apartments, making it a top choice for digital nomads and professionals.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Pros and Cons of Living in Phnom Penh
Pros
- Very affordable cost of living - ideal for budget-conscious expats
- Adequate internet speed for most remote work needs
- Very affordable rent for 1-bedroom apartments
- Affordable healthcare options available
Cons
- Safety concerns exist - research specific neighborhoods
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$349/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
0.6x
Housing costs are high relative to local wages. Remote income or savings help.
The average local salary doesn't fully cover typical expat expenses. Supplemental income is common.
Cost Insight
Phnom Penh is one of the more affordable options for expats. Your money stretches further here.
Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 60% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.
That's 267% cheaper than Krakow at $3,823/month.
Common Questions About Phnom Penh
How much does it cost to live in Phnom Penh?
Around $1,041/month for a single person, covering rent, food, and basics. Lifestyle choices affect the final number.
Is Phnom Penh safe for expats?
Phnom Penh is variable by neighborhood with a 4.9/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Phnom Penh good for remote workers?
With 60 Mbps average speeds, Phnom Penh is adequate for most online work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Phnom Penh?
A 1-bedroom averages $622/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Phnom Penh
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Phnom Penh
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Good
Quick Stats
Safety Score
4.9/10
Internet Speed
60 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$1,041
Explore Similar Cities
Also in Cambodia
Final Thoughts
Phnom Penh is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,041, a safety score of 4.9/10, and internet speeds of 60 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Phnom Penh deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: September 2026.
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