Cost of Living in Phnom Penh for English Teachers
Moving to a new country brings many questions. Understanding the cost of living in Phnom Penh for teachers is crucial. This guide breaks down typical monthly expenses, helping you budget for your adventure in Cambodia's capital.
Phnom Penh offers an affordable lifestyle, especially compared to Western countries. You can live comfortably, teach English, and even save some money. Your lifestyle choices will greatly impact your overall monthly budget in Phnom Penh.
Data last checked: October 2023.
Quick Take
- Phnom Penh is generally affordable for English teachers.
- Rent is your biggest expense, varying greatly by location and quality.
- Local food is very cheap; Western options cost more.
- Transportation is inexpensive using ride-hailing apps.
- Utilities, including internet, are reasonably priced.
- You can save money each month, even on a modest teacher salary.
- Budgeting carefully helps you maximize your savings in Phnom Penh.
Understanding Your Teacher Salary in Phnom Penh
A classroom setup in Phnom Penh
English teacher salaries in Phnom Penh vary. Your pay depends on your qualifications, experience, and the type of school. New teachers often earn between $1,000 and $1,500 USD per month.
More experienced teachers, or those at international schools, might earn $1,800 to $2,500 or more. This Phnom Penh teacher salary for 2026 allows for a comfortable lifestyle. You can also save a significant portion of your income.
Many teachers find they can cover their monthly expenses in Phnom Penh. They still have funds left over for travel or savings. How much do teachers save in Phnom Penh? This depends on your spending habits, but $300 to $700 per month is achievable for many.
Rent Prices and Accommodation
Typical apartment building in Phnom Penh
Typical expat apartment building in Phnom Penh
Your Phnom Penh rent prices will be your largest monthly expense. The city offers diverse housing options. These include modern apartments, traditional Khmer houses, and shared expat homes.
Popular expat neighborhoods are BKK1, BKK3, and Toul Tom Poung. These areas have many amenities, cafes, and restaurants. They are also generally safer and more convenient.
Here are some average rent in Phnom Penh estimates for a 1-bedroom apartment:
- Outside city center: $250 to $400 USD per month.
- Within city center or expat areas (BKK1, BKK3): $400 to $700 USD per month.
- Serviced apartments: $600 to $1,000+ USD per month, often including cleaning and sometimes utilities.
Finding a roommate can significantly reduce your Phnom Penh apartment cost. Be sure to inspect any property carefully before committing. Some budget listings, particularly on platforms like Airbnb, might have issues like slow Wi-Fi or inconsistent water supply. Consider allocating a higher budget for lodging if you seek a smoother experience.
Utilities and Internet Costs
Everyday prices at a Phnom Penh market
Utilities cost Phnom Penh residents less than in many Western cities. However, air conditioning can drive up your electricity bill. Plan for this expense during the hot season.
Typical monthly utility costs are as follows:
- Electricity: $50 to $150 USD (highly dependent on AC usage).
- Water: $5 to $15 USD.
- Cooking Gas (if applicable): $5 to $10 USD.
- Internet (home broadband, 60 Mbps+): $15 to $30 USD.
Getting a SIM card is affordable and convenient. You can purchase one with a large data allowance easily. Mobile phone plans with calls and 10GB+ data typically cost $5 to $10 per month.
Food and Dining Out
Food prices in Phnom Penh offer great value. You can eat very cheaply if you embrace local cuisine. Western food options are available but will cost more.
- Street Food: A meal like a noodle soup or rice dish costs $1.50 to $3 USD.
- Local Restaurants: A meal at an inexpensive local restaurant costs $3 to $7 USD.
- Mid-Range Restaurants (Western/Expat): Expect to pay $8 to $20 USD per meal.
- Groceries: Shopping at local markets is cheaper than supermarkets. A monthly grocery bill, mixing local and some imported items, might be $150 to $300 USD.
Eating out frequently is very common in Phnom Penh. It can be more cost-effective than cooking at home, especially for single individuals.
Transportation Costs
Transport cost Phnom Penh residents very little. The city relies heavily on tuk-tuks and moto-dops (motorbike taxis). Ride-hailing apps like Grab and PassApp are popular and convenient.
- Short Tuk-tuk Ride (within a few kilometers): $1.50 to $3 USD.
- Longer Tuk-tuk Ride: $3 to $5 USD.
- Moto-dop Ride: $0.75 to $2 USD.
Many expats also buy or rent a scooter for greater independence. This adds fuel costs, but it can save money in the long run. A monthly budget for transport might be $50 to $100 USD, depending on your travel habits.
Entertainment and Social Life
Phnom Penh has a lively atmosphere. It offers many options for entertainment and social activities. These range from bustling markets to modern cafes and bars. The city quiets down by 9 pm, offering a relaxed vibe compared to other Southeast Asian capitals.
- Local Beer: $1.50 to $3 USD at bars.
- Coffee: $2 to $4 USD at cafes.
- Cinema Ticket: $5 to $8 USD.
- Gym Membership: $20 to $50 USD per month.
Your entertainment budget will vary based on your preferences. You can enjoy a good social life without spending a fortune. Many cafes, like Suzy Anti-cafe, also offer good spaces for remote work or socializing.
Costs
Here is a Phnom Penh cost breakdown, showing estimated monthly expenses for a new English teacher in 2026:
| Category | Low End (USD) | High End (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom) | $300 | $600 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas) | $60 | $175 |
| Internet | $15 | $30 |
| Mobile Phone | $5 | $10 |
| Groceries | $150 | $300 |
| Dining Out | $100 | $250 |
| Transport | $50 | $100 |
| Entertainment & Social | $50 | $150 |
| Total Estimated Monthly Expenses | $790 | $1,675 |
This monthly budget Phnom Penh estimate shows that living is quite affordable. You can live comfortably on a teacher's salary. Many teachers find they can save money each month.
Travel Medical Insurance
Private clinics in Cambodia handle routine care, but serious injuries or illness often mean a flight to Bangkok. Without proper cover, an emergency can cost thousands out of pocket.
Safety and Scams
Phnom Penh is generally safe, but like any big city, it has its issues. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Petty crime, such as bag snatching, can occur. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
Common scams include overcharging by tuk-tuk drivers. Always agree on a price before starting your journey. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unexpected help or invitations. Use reputable ride-hailing apps to avoid price disputes.
Protect Your Internet Connection
Public Wi-Fi in Cambodia’s cafes, coworking spaces, and hotels is not always secure. A VPN protects your banking, logins, and personal data.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls to make your move to Phnom Penh smoother:
- Not budgeting properly: Track your expenses for the first few months. This helps you understand your spending habits. Create a realistic monthly budget Phnom Penh plan.
- Only eating Western food: This significantly increases your food bill. Embrace local cuisine; it is delicious and much cheaper.
- Not negotiating prices: Haggling is common at markets and with independent tuk-tuk drivers. Always try to negotiate respectfully.
- Ignoring apartment issues: Thoroughly check any apartment before signing a lease. Look for reliable Wi-Fi, hot water, and consistent water supply. Budget listings often come with these problems.
- Not getting a local SIM card: A local SIM is cheap and essential for navigation and communication. Don't rely solely on Wi-Fi.
FAQ
Q: Is Phnom Penh cheap to live? Yes, Phnom Penh is generally considered cheap to live in, especially when compared to Western countries. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a modest English teacher salary.
Q: What is the average rent in Phnom Penh? The average rent for a decent one-bedroom apartment ranges from $300 to $700 USD per month. Prices vary based on location, amenities, and whether it is a serviced apartment.
Q: How much money do English teachers save in Phnom Penh? Many English teachers in Phnom Penh can save between $300 and $700 USD per month. Your savings depend on your salary, lifestyle choices, and how carefully you manage your expenses.
Q: What are typical food prices in Phnom Penh? You can find street food meals for $1.50 to $3 USD. Local restaurant meals cost $3 to $7 USD. Western meals range from $8 to $20 USD, making local food a very budget-friendly option.
Q: How much do utilities cost in Phnom Penh? Monthly utility costs are typically $60 to $175 USD. Electricity is the highest variable, especially with air conditioning use. Internet and water are generally quite affordable.
