🇰🇠Cost of Living: Cambodia vs Vietnam — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameKingdom of Cambodia
CapitalPhnom Penh
Population17.6 million
Area181,035 km² (69,898 sq mi)
LanguagesKhmer
CurrencyCambodian riel (៛), United States dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC+07:00
RegionAsia / South-Eastern Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$7,967 (2024)
Inflation Rate0.8% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$115 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend60.6% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.2% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Cambodia is generally cheaper than Vietnam, with an overall cost of living that is around 15-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Cambodia GDP per Capita (PPP)$4,145
Vietnam GDP per Capita (PPP)$8,066
Cambodia Inflation Rate3.5%
Vietnam Inflation Rate3.2%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Cambodia
Overview: Cambodia vs Vietnam
Cambodia and Vietnam are two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that offer a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. In terms of cost of living, Cambodia is generally considered to be the more affordable option, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and transportation. This is largely due to the fact that Cambodia is a less developed country than Vietnam, with a lower GDP per capita and a smaller economy. However, Vietnam has been experiencing rapid economic growth in recent years, which has led to an increase in prices, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
The economic context of the two countries is also worth considering. Cambodia has a relatively small economy, with a strong focus on agriculture and textiles, while Vietnam has a more diversified economy, with a growing manufacturing sector and a strong tourism industry. This has led to an increase in prices in Vietnam, particularly for accommodation and transportation. However, Cambodia's lower cost of living and more relaxed pace of life make it an attractive option for expats, digital nomads, and travelers looking for a affordable and laid-back lifestyle. According to various sources, the overall cost of living in Cambodia is around 15-20% lower than in Vietnam, making it a more affordable option for those looking to live and travel in Southeast Asia.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Cambodia (USD)
Vietnam (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
$250
$350
28% cheaper in Cambodia
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$150
$250
40% cheaper in Cambodia
3BR Apartment (City Center)
$500
$700
29% cheaper in Cambodia
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Cambodia (USD)
Vietnam (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
$3
$5
40% cheaper in Cambodia
Groceries (monthly)
$100
$150
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Beer (500ml)
$1
$2
50% cheaper in Cambodia
Coffee
$1
$2
50% cheaper in Cambodia
Transport Comparison
Item
Cambodia (USD)
Vietnam (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
$10
$20
50% cheaper in Cambodia
Taxi (per km)
$0.50
$0.75
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80
$1.00
20% cheaper in Cambodia
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Cambodia (USD)
Vietnam (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
$50
$75
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Internet (60 Mbps)
$20
$30
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Mobile Plan
$5
$10
50% cheaper in Cambodia
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Cambodia (USD)
Vietnam (USD)
Savings
Budget
$400
$600
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Mid-Range
$800
$1,200
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Comfortable
$1,200
$1,800
33% cheaper in Cambodia
Where Each Country Wins
Cambodia is cheaper for:
Rent and accommodation, with prices that are around 20-30% lower than in Vietnam
Food and dining, with meals and groceries that are around 30-40% cheaper than in Vietnam
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices that are around 20-30% lower than in Vietnam
Utilities and internet, with prices that are around 20-30% cheaper than in Vietnam
Vietnam is cheaper for:
Certain types of clothing and electronics, which can be found at lower prices in Vietnam's larger markets and shopping malls
Some types of tourist activities and attractions, which can be more affordable in Vietnam due to the country's more developed tourism industry
Certain types of healthcare and medical services, which can be more advanced and affordable in Vietnam
Some types of educational programs and courses, which can be more affordable and widely available in Vietnam
Bottom Line
When it comes to choosing between Cambodia and Vietnam, the decision ultimately depends on your individual lifestyle and priorities. If you're looking for a more affordable and laid-back lifestyle, Cambodia may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a more developed and modern lifestyle, with access to better amenities and services, Vietnam may be the better option. For expats and digital nomads, Cambodia's lower cost of living and more relaxed pace of life make it an attractive option, while for families and retirees, Vietnam's more developed infrastructure and amenities may be more appealing. Ultimately, both countries offer a unique and rewarding experience, and the choice between them will depend on your individual needs and preferences.