Cost of Living in Kampong Cham

Joshua Wood

Understanding the the cost of living in Kampong Cham helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category	Cost
Apartment Rentals	1-bedroom apartment in city center: $150 – $250 per month 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $100 – $200 per month 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $300 – $500 per month 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $250 – $400 per month
Apartment Purchases	Price per square meter in city center: $800 – $1,200 Price per square meter outside city center: $500 – $800
Transportation	One-way local transport ticket: $0.50 Monthly local transport pass: $15 – $25 Taxi starting tariff: $1 Taxi 1km tariff: $0.50 – $1 Gasoline (1 liter): $0.95 – $1.10 Motorbike rental (daily): $5 – $10 Bicycle rental (daily): $1 – $3
Groceries	Milk (1 liter): $1.20 – $1.50 Bread (500g): $0.50 – $1 Rice (1kg): $0.50 – $1 Eggs (12): $1.50 – $2 Chicken breasts (1kg): $3.50 – $5 Beef (1kg): $5 – $7 Apples (1kg): $2 – $3 Oranges (1kg): $1.50 – $2.50 Tomatoes (1kg): $1 – $1.50 Potatoes (1kg): $1 – $1.50 Water (1.5-liter bottle): $0.50 – $1 Domestic beer (0.5-liter bottle): $0.50 – $1 Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $1 – $1.50 Cigarettes (Marlboro): $1 – $1.50
Restaurants	Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 – $4 Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $10 – $20 Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): $0.50 – $1 Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $1 – $1.50 Cappuccino: $1 – $2 Soft drink (0.33-liter bottle): $0.50 – $1 Water (0.33-liter bottle): $0.25 – $0.50
Utilities	Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $50 – $100 per month Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): $15 – $30 per month Mobile call rate (per minute, no discounts or plans): $0.05 – $0.10
Private School Tuition	Preschool (or Kindergarten) tuition: $100 – $200 per month Elementary school tuition: $150 – $300 per month Middle school tuition: $200 – $400 per month High school tuition: $250 – $500 per month

Please note that the costs provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific location within Kampong Cham, as well as the current economic situation. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Kampong Cham

“The cost of living in Kampong Cham is relatively low compared to many Western countries. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is quite affordable. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also relatively low. Groceries are also inexpensive, with local markets offering fresh produce, meat, and seafood at reasonable prices. Eating out at local restaurants is also quite affordable, with meals at inexpensive restaurants being particularly cost-effective. Transportation costs are also low, with affordable public transportation options and low-cost taxis. Healthcare is also relatively inexpensive, although the quality of care can vary. Overall, the cost of living in Kampong Cham is low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in a vibrant, culturally rich area while keeping living costs down,” said one expat living in Kampong Cham.

Can I live in Kampong Cham on $1,500 a month?

“I’ve been living in Kampong Cham for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, you’ll need to make some sacrifices and adjustments to make it work. Firstly, you’ll need to find a place to live that’s affordable but still offers the amenities you’re used to. I recommend looking for an apartment or house in neighborhoods like Boeung Kok, Veal Vong, or Kampong Siem. These areas are more affordable than the more upscale neighborhoods like Chrouy Changvar or Phsar Thmei, which can be quite expensive. When it comes to transportation, you’ll need to rely on local options like tuk-tuks, motodops, or bicycles, as owning a car can be quite expensive here. Public transportation is limited, so it’s best to get used to these alternatives. Eating out can be quite affordable if you stick to local restaurants and street food, which are both delicious and cheap. However, if you prefer Western-style food or dining at upscale restaurants, you’ll need to cut back on that to stay within your budget. As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options like visiting local markets, temples, and parks. However, you might need to cut back on more expensive activities like going to high-end bars, clubs, or international travel. Lastly, you’ll need to adjust your expectations when it comes to shopping. Imported goods and brand-name items can be quite expensive here, so it’s best to stick to local products and markets for your shopping needs. Overall, living in Kampong Cham on $1,500 a month is doable, but you’ll need to make some sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle. Embrace the local culture and way of life, and you’ll find that you can live comfortably and enjoy your time in this beautiful city,” commented an expat living in Kampong Cham.

Can I live in Kampong Cham on $3,500 a month?

“I’ve been living in Kampong Cham for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you’ll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll need to be mindful of where you choose to live. Some neighborhoods can be quite expensive, especially those that cater to expats and tourists. I’d recommend looking for a place in a more local neighborhood, as the cost of living will be significantly lower. For example, you could consider areas like Boeung Kok or Veal Vong, which are more affordable and still offer decent living conditions.One of the main sacrifices you’ll have to make is adjusting to the local lifestyle. This means eating at local restaurants and street food stalls, which are not only cheaper but also offer a more authentic Cambodian experience. You might also need to get used to using local transportation, such as tuk-tuks and motodops, instead of relying on taxis or renting a car.Another thing to consider is the quality of healthcare. While there are some decent hospitals and clinics in Kampong Cham, they might not be up to the standards you’re used to. You’ll need to be prepared to travel to Phnom Penh or even Bangkok for more serious medical issues.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, you’ll find that there’s not as much variety as you might be used to in a more developed country. However, there are still plenty of things to do, such as visiting local markets, exploring the beautiful countryside, and taking part in traditional Cambodian festivals.Overall, living in Kampong Cham on $3,000 a month is definitely doable, but it will require some adjustments and sacrifices. By embracing the local lifestyle and being mindful of your spending, you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in this charming Cambodian city,” said one expat living in Kampong Cham.

Can I live in Kampong Cham on $5,000 a month?

“I’ve been living in Kampong Cham for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might even find that you can save some money while living here. However, there are some sacrifices you’ll have to make to make it work.Firstly, you’ll need to adjust to the local lifestyle and culture. This means getting used to the local food, which is delicious but might be different from what you’re used to. You’ll also need to learn some basic Khmer language skills to communicate with the locals, as not everyone speaks English.In terms of housing, you can find a decent apartment or house for rent in a safe neighborhood for around $300 to $500 a month. Some popular neighborhoods for expats include Boeung Snay, Chrouy Changvar, and Toul Kork. These areas have a good mix of locals and expats, and you’ll find plenty of modern amenities like supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. I would recommend avoiding more expensive neighborhoods like BKK1 and Tonle Bassac, as they cater more to high-end expats and can be quite pricey.Transportation is relatively cheap in Kampong Cham, with tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis being the most common modes of transport. You can also rent a motorbike for around $50 to $100 a month if you prefer to have your own transportation.Healthcare is another area where you might need to make some sacrifices. While there are local clinics and hospitals, the quality of care can be inconsistent. Many expats choose to travel to Phnom Penh or even Bangkok for more serious medical issues. It’s essential to have good health insurance that covers medical evacuation if needed.Lastly, you’ll need to adjust to the slower pace of life in Kampong Cham. While this can be a welcome change for some, it might take some getting used to if you’re coming from a fast-paced, modern city. Overall, living in Kampong Cham on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, and you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while experiencing a new culture. Just be prepared to make some adjustments and embrace the local way of life,” commented an expat living in Kampong Cham.

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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