កម្ពុជា
Capital
Phnom Penh
Currency
KHR
Population
17.3M
Visa Difficulty
2/10
Cost of Living
24.31
GDP per Capita
$1,785
Region
Asia
Climate
Tropical
Cambodia offers accessible living with straightforward visa options.
Best for
Not ideal for
| Scenario | Rent | Groceries | Transport | Healthcare | Eating Out | Total/mo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solo (Frugal) | $250 | $100 | $25 | $37 | $62 | $474 |
| Couple (Comfortable) | $400 | $150 | $32 | $55 | $124 | $805 |
| Family of Four | $550 | $250 | $50 | $92 | $155 | $1,327 |
Salary reality: Local salaries are modest but cost of living is low — expats on remote salaries live very comfortably.
City variation: The capital Phnom Penh is typically 20-40% more expensive than secondary cities.
Employed professional
Business Visa (EB)
Timeline: 2-6
Cost: $100-$500
Note: Employer sponsorship significantly improves chances
The catch: Most require a confirmed job offer before application
Path to Permanent Residency
Timeline: 5-7
Path to Citizenship
Timeline: 7-10
In-demand roles
| Role | Min (USD) | Max (USD) | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | $500 | $1,250 | monthly |
| English Teacher | $300 | $625 | monthly |
| Marketing/Business | $375 | $875 | monthly |
Hiring reality: English-speaking professionals find reasonable opportunities, especially in multinational companies.
Remote work: Check current visa type — dedicated digital nomad/remote work visas are becoming more common but traditional work visas may not cover remote employment.
BKK1, Phnom Penh
Established expat community, international amenities, good connectivity
Rent: $250-$450/mo
Suburban Phnom Penh
More space, quieter, family-friendly neighborhoods
Rent: $125-$250/mo
Can foreigners buy property? Yes
Scams to watch
Most expats opt for private healthcare for shorter wait times and English-speaking staff.
Doctor Visit
$14
ER Visit
$74
Insurance Required
No
Insurance Cost
$29-$92/month
English-speaking doctors: Moderate
English Survivability
English useful in tourist areas and international businesses, but local language essential for daily life.
Bureaucracy Rating
5/10
Transport vs Car
Public transport available in the capital; car recommended outside major cities.
Internet
20 Mbps avg
Remote work: Improving but power/connectivity issues in some areas
What people love
What people dislike
Current issues
Common mistakes
Insider guide to jobs in Cambodia for foreigners. Real costs, practical tips, and honest advice from experts.
Explore the cost of living in Cambodia with insights into rent, groceries, and more. Learn about city-specific expenses and discover money-saving strategies for 2026.
Quick answers to the most common questions about visiting, moving to, and living in Cambodia.
The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh. It is the largest city and the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer. It is spoken by the majority of the population and used in government and education.
The currency used in Cambodia is the Riel (KHR). However, the US dollar is also widely accepted for many transactions.
The population of Cambodia is approximately 16 million people. It is a youthful population with a significant portion under the age of 30.
Cambodia is famous for Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world.
Cambodia is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), which is 7 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+7).
The dialing code for Cambodia is +855. To call Cambodia from abroad, you need to dial this code followed by the local number.
Cambodia is considered a developing country. It has made significant economic progress in recent years but still faces challenges in infrastructure and poverty reduction.
Yes, most visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia. Tourist visas can often be obtained on arrival or online through the e-visa system.
To get a work visa for Cambodia, you typically need a job offer from a Cambodian employer who will sponsor your visa application.
Obtaining permanent residency in Cambodia is possible but involves meeting specific criteria and often requires a long-term stay and investment in the country.
Citizenship in Cambodia can be acquired through naturalization, which involves a lengthy process including residency requirements and language proficiency.
As of now, Cambodia does not offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, digital nomads often use tourist or business visas for extended stays.
Without a visa, you can stay in Cambodia for 30 days if you are from a country with a visa exemption agreement. Otherwise, a visa is required.
For a Cambodia visa, you typically need a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-sized photo, and a completed application form.
A Cambodia visa typically costs around $30 to $35 for a tourist visa. Prices can vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.
The cost of living in Cambodia is generally low compared to many Western countries. Expenses vary by lifestyle and location, with Phnom Penh being more expensive.
To live comfortably in Cambodia, you might need around $1,000 to $2,500 per month, depending on your lifestyle and location.
The average rent in Cambodia is typically around $200 to $700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on the city and neighborhood.
Cambodia is affordable for tourists, with low costs for accommodation, food, and transportation compared to many other destinations.
The minimum wage in Cambodia is approximately $190 per month for garment workers, which is a common benchmark for other sectors.
The average salary in Cambodia is roughly $200 to $500 per month, with variations depending on the industry and level of experience.
Finding a job in Cambodia can be challenging without local connections or specialized skills, but opportunities exist in sectors like education and tourism.
Jobs in demand in Cambodia include teaching English, hospitality, and roles in the garment industry. Skills in IT and engineering are also sought after.
Yes, foreigners can work in Cambodia, but they need a work permit and a valid visa, typically sponsored by an employer.
The income tax rate in Cambodia ranges from 0% to 20%, depending on income level. Foreigners are subject to the same tax rates as locals.
Cambodia can be a good place to live for those seeking a low-cost lifestyle and a warm climate, though it may lack some modern amenities.
To move to Cambodia, you need to secure a visa, find accommodation, and possibly a job if you plan to work. Understanding local customs is also helpful.
Life in Cambodia is generally relaxed and culturally rich, with a slower pace compared to Western countries. However, infrastructure can be less developed.
Cambodia can be good for families, offering a low cost of living and a rich cultural experience, though education and healthcare may be limited.
Cambodia is generally safe to live in, but like any country, it has areas where caution is advised, particularly regarding petty crime.
The best cities to live in Cambodia include Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, each offering different lifestyles and amenities.
To open a bank account in Cambodia, you need a passport and proof of residence. Some banks may require a minimum deposit.
The predominant religion in Cambodia is Buddhism, specifically Theravada Buddhism, which plays a significant role in the culture and daily life.
The culture of Cambodia is characterized by its Buddhist traditions, rich history, and vibrant arts scene, including dance, music, and crafts.
Popular food in Cambodia includes Amok (a coconut milk curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and various street foods like noodles and skewers.
Customs and traditions in Cambodia are deeply rooted in Buddhism, with festivals like Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben being widely celebrated.
People in Cambodia are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners, often showing hospitality and curiosity towards visitors.
The best places to visit in Cambodia include Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, and the beaches of Sihanoukville. Each offers unique attractions and experiences.
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the cool, dry season from November to February, when temperatures are more comfortable.
Cambodia is generally safe for tourists, though it's wise to be vigilant about petty theft and scams, especially in crowded areas.
A typical visit to Cambodia can be enjoyed in 7 to 10 days, allowing time to explore major attractions like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh.
Traveling in Cambodia is generally cheap, with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation, making it a budget-friendly destination.
The healthcare system in Cambodia is developing, with limited facilities in rural areas. Major cities have better services, but many expats prefer treatment abroad for serious issues.
Healthcare is not free in Cambodia. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket, though some NGOs and government programs offer limited free services.
The education system in Cambodia is improving, with increased access to primary education, though quality and resources can vary widely.
Yes, international students can study in Cambodia, with several universities offering programs in English and opportunities for cultural exchange.
The climate in Cambodia is tropical, with a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April, featuring high temperatures year-round.
English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and among younger Cambodians, though Khmer is the primary language for most of the population.
Internet speed and connectivity in Cambodia are improving, with urban areas having better access to high-speed internet than rural regions.