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Phnom Penh vs San Juan del Sur

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh

Cambodia

$1,041/mo6.4/10
San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur

Nicaragua

$915/mo6.7/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor
Phnom Penh
San Juan del Sur
Winner
Total Monthly Cost
$1,041
$915
San Juan del Sur
Rent (1BR)
$622
$450
San Juan del Sur
Groceries
$220
$240
Phnom Penh
Transport
$80
$75
San Juan del Sur
Healthcare
$90
$110
Phnom Penh
Safety Score
4.9/10
7/10
San Juan del Sur
Internet Speed
60 Mbps
55 Mbps
Phnom Penh
NomadIQ Score
6.4/10
6.7/10
San Juan del Sur

Overall Winner: San Juan del Sur

Based on our comparison, San Juan del Sur wins 5 out of 8 categories.Phnom Penh wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Phnom Penh and San Juan del Sur, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

San Juan del Sur

$915/mo

Best Internet

Phnom Penh

60 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

San Juan del Sur

6.7/10

Our Recommendation: San Juan del Sur is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Phnom Penh vs San Juan del Sur

When comparing Phnom Penh and San Juan del Sur for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: San Juan del Sur is the more budget-friendly option at $915/month versus Phnom Penh's $1,041/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Phnom Penh leads with 60 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. San Juan del Sur offers 55 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 7/10, San Juan del Sur offers better security than Phnom Penh (4.9/10).

Overall: San Juan del Sur's NomadIQ score of 6.7/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

San Juan del Sur is 12% cheaper than Phnom Penh.

  • • Phnom Penh rent: $622/mo
  • • San Juan del Sur rent: $450/mo
  • • Difference: $172/mo

Safety Comparison

San Juan del Sur has a higher safety score (7/10) compared to Phnom Penh (4.9/10).

4.9/10

Phnom Penh

7/10

San Juan del Sur

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Phnom Penh offers faster internet at 60 Mbps vs 55 Mbps.

60 Mbps

Phnom Penh

55 Mbps

San Juan del Sur

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, San Juan del Sur edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 5 of 8 comparison factors.

Phnom Penh: Best for those prioritizing amenities

San Juan del Sur: Best for budget-conscious expats

Frequently Asked Questions: Phnom Penh vs San Juan del Sur