Exploring the Cost of Living for Expatriates in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The cost of living for expatriates in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, can vary based on several factors, including individual lifestyle choices and preferences. As of 2023, a monthly budget for an expat living an average lifestyle in the city can range from $800 to $2000. However, it is crucial to note that this figure might fluctuate depending on the time of year and personal choices.

Immense Factors Influencing the Cost of Living

First and foremost, it is important to recognize that the cost of living in Cambodia has increased over the past few years. Therefore, the figures provided may no longer be accurate a few months down the road. In this article, we will explore the current costs and offer a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses.

Accurate Cost Breakdown of Living in Phnom Penh

Housing: Housing costs range from basic apartments to Western-style rental units. For a simple Khmer-style house outside the city center, the rent can be as low as $150 per month. However, centrally located Western-style apartments tend to cost between $700 to $2000 per month, including additional amenities like security, a gym, and a pool. Utilities: Electricity in Cambodia can be expensive, with rental units often charging around 25 cents per kilowatt. Water is relatively cheap, with a metered usage costing no more than $2.50 per month. Unmetered water is fixed at $5 per month for unlimited supply. Transportation: Tuk-tuks and taxis are popular but can be pricey. A tuk-tuk ride per kilometer costs around $1, but prices often surge significantly. Bicycles and motorcycles are more affordable and practical with second-hand bicycles ranging from $20 to $50, and new motorcycles costing $400 to $600. Gasoline prices are around $1 per liter. Food and Beverages: Street food is cheap and abundant, with a typical meal costing between $1 to $4. High-end dining can range from $10 to $50 per person, and beer prices are generally low, with a local draft beer costing $1.50 during happy hours and craft/beers importing costing between $3 to $9. Entertainment: Entertainment is a significant expense, with bowling costing between $10 to $30, karaoke bars ranging from $20 to $100, movie entry tickets at $5, and additional costs for food, drinks, and bar fines.

Personal Experiences and Insights

Based on a personal experience living alone in BKK3, the expenses listed below were observed:

Rent: Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is around $350, including cleaning and Wi-Fi access. Utilities: Electricity bills range between $50 to $60, and water is fixed at $5 monthly. Eating: Dining at street food vendors averages $7 per day, adding up to $210 monthly. Transportation: A used motorcycle cost $300, with approximately $10 for gasoline every month. Entertainment: Spending $15 to $100 every week for nights out brings the total monthly expenditure to around $900.

This budget provides a realistic view of the expenses faced by an expat, along with an illustration of how specific choices can influence the overall cost.