Retiring in Cambodia

The Boldest, Most Affordable Move in Southeast Asia

Cambodia is not for everyone. It is for the adventurous retiree who wants rock-bottom costs, a genuinely frontier expat experience, and the extraordinary privilege of living next to one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders.

If that sounds like you, Cambodia might be the most interesting move you ever make.

Why Cambodia?

The cheapest cost of comfortable expat living in Southeast Asia, possibly anywhere in the world at this lifestyle level.

The US dollar is the de facto currency. No currency conversion headaches for American retirees.

Visa options are among the most flexible in Southeast Asia. Long stay visas are straightforward and affordable.

Phnom Penh is a genuine city with a real expat scene, excellent restaurants, and a cost that has to be seen to be believed.

Siem Reap puts you within cycling distance of Angkor Wat, the greatest temple complex ever built.

The Cambodian people are warm, resilient, and welcoming to foreigners.

Real Cost of Living in Cambodia

Phnom Penh Monthly Budget

Expense	Monthly Cost (USD)
Rent (1 bed apartment, good area)	$250-450
Utilities (electric, water, internet)	$50-90
Food (mix of local and Western)	$200-350
Transport (tuk tuk or scooter)	$30-60
Health insurance	$80-150
Entertainment and dining out	$150-300
Miscellaneous	$80-150
TOTAL (comfortable lifestyle)	$840-1,550

Siem Reap runs slightly cheaper than Phnom Penh. The coastal town of Kampot is increasingly popular with long-term expats and offers some of the lowest costs in the country.

Visa Options for Cambodia

Ordinary Visa (E-class)

The standard long-stay visa for expats. Obtained on arrival or in advance. Initially valid for 30 days, extendable to 1 year for approximately $300. Allows multiple entries. Renewals are straightforward from within Cambodia.

Cambodia My Second Home (CMS2H)

Cambodia’s newer long-stay program for retirees and remote workers. Offers longer validity and additional benefits. Requirements and pricing subject to change, verify current details before applying.

Healthcare in Cambodia

Cambodia’s healthcare system is the most limited of the five countries covered on this site. In Phnom Penh, Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and Sunrise Japan Hospital provide reasonable international-standard care for most needs. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Bangkok is standard and many expat insurance policies cover this.

This makes comprehensive health insurance with evacuation coverage non-negotiable for Cambodia.

Where to Live in Cambodia

Phnom Penh: The Surprisingly Liveable Capital

Phnom Penh surprises most first-time visitors. It is a genuinely pleasant city with wide tree-lined boulevards, a beautiful riverside promenade, an excellent restaurant scene, and an active expat community. The cost is extraordinary.

Siem Reap: Living Next to a Wonder of the World

Siem Reap exists primarily because of Angkor Wat, and for retirees who want daily access to one of humanity’s greatest achievements it is an extraordinary base. The town itself is charming with a good expat scene and very low costs.

Kampot: The River Town

Kampot is a small riverside town near the coast that has become a favourite for long-term expats seeking maximum affordability and a relaxed pace. Think of it as Cambodia’s version of Pai in Thailand, a place that attracts people who stay much longer than they planned.

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