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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Battambang 2024
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Cost of Living in Battambang

By Betsy Burlingame

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: If you're moving to Battambang, understanding the the cost of living in Battambang helps you know 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: $200 - $350 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $100 - $200 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $400 - $700 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $250 - $400 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Price per square meter outside city center: $500 - $800
Transportation
  • One-way local transport ticket: $0.50
  • Monthly transport pass: $20 - $30
  • Taxi starting tariff: $1
  • Taxi 1km tariff: $0.50 - $1
  • Gasoline (1 liter): $0.95 - $1.10
  • Motorbike rental (monthly): $40 - $60
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): $7 - $10
  • 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
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $2 - $4
  • Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $15 - $25
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): $0.50 - $1
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $1 - $2
  • 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): $20 - $40 per month
  • Mobile call tariff (1 minute, no discounts or plans): $0.05 - $0.10
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool (or kindergarten) tuition: $1,000 - $2,000 per year
  • Elementary school tuition: $2,000 - $4,000 per year
  • Middle school tuition: $3,000 - $5,000 per year
  • High school tuition: $4,000 - $6,000 per year
Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on individual preferences and lifestyle. It's also important to consider that prices may change over time due to inflation and other economic factors.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Battambang

"The cost of living in Battambang is relatively low compared to many Western countries. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is quite affordable, while outside the city center, it is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also quite low. Groceries are also inexpensive, with local markets offering fresh produce, meat, and seafood at very reasonable prices. Eating out at local restaurants is also quite affordable, while dining at more upscale restaurants can be a bit more expensive. Public transportation in Battambang is also quite cheap, with local buses and taxis offering affordable rates. However, many residents choose to get around by bicycle or motorbike, which can be rented or purchased at a low cost. Healthcare in Battambang is also relatively affordable, although the quality of care can vary. Many expats choose to have health insurance that covers treatment in private hospitals or clinics, which can be more expensive. Overall, the cost of living in Battambang is quite low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live abroad on a budget," said one expat living in Battambang.

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

"I've been living in Battambang for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living here is relatively low compared to Western countries, but you'll need to adjust your expectations when it comes to certain amenities.First, let's talk about housing. You can find a decent apartment or house for rent in the range of $200 to $400 per month, depending on the location and size. I'd recommend looking for a place in the more affordable neighborhoods like Toul Ta Ek or Svay Por. These areas are still close to the city center, but the rent is more reasonable. I'd avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like Wat Kor or Kdol Doun Teav, as the rent there can be quite high.When it comes to utilities, you'll need to budget for electricity, water, and internet. Electricity can be a bit expensive, especially if you use air conditioning a lot. I'd recommend using fans instead to save on electricity costs. Water is relatively cheap, and you can expect to pay around $5 to $10 per month. Internet is also affordable, with plans starting at around $15 per month for a decent speed.Transportation is another area where you can save money. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are the most common modes of transportation, and they're quite cheap. You can also rent a motorbike for around $50 to $70 per month if you prefer to have your own transportation.Eating out in Battambang is very affordable, with local meals costing around $1 to $3. Western food is available but can be more expensive, so I'd recommend sticking to local cuisine to save money. Groceries are also reasonably priced, and you can find fresh produce at local markets for a fraction of the cost you'd pay in Western countries.As for entertainment and socializing, there are plenty of affordable options. You can find bars and restaurants with cheap drinks, and there are often free or low-cost events happening around the city. Just be prepared to adjust your expectations when it comes to the quality of some amenities, like movie theaters or gyms, as they may not be up to the same standard as you're used to.In summary, living in Battambang on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and adjust your expectations when it comes to certain amenities. By choosing affordable neighborhoods, being mindful of utility usage, and embracing local cuisine and entertainment options, you can live comfortably and enjoy your time in this charming Cambodian city," commented an expat living in Battambang.

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

"I've been living in Battambang 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 of the more expensive neighborhoods, like the ones around the city center, might be out of your budget. Instead, consider looking for a place in more affordable areas like Toul Ta Ek or O'Mal. These neighborhoods still have access to modern amenities, but the cost of living is significantly lower.When it comes to housing, you can find a decent apartment or house for around $300 to $500 a month. Keep in mind that the quality of the accommodation might not be up to the standards you're used to, but it's still comfortable and functional. You can also save money by opting for a place without air conditioning, as electricity can be quite expensive in Cambodia.In terms of transportation, you'll likely need to rely on tuk-tuks or motorbike taxis to get around, as public transportation isn't very reliable or extensive in Battambang. This can be a bit of an adjustment, but it's also an affordable way to get around the city.Eating out can be quite cheap in Battambang, especially if you stick to local street food and markets. However, if you prefer to eat at more upscale restaurants or international chains, you'll need to budget accordingly, as these can be more expensive.One of the biggest sacrifices you might have to make is adjusting to the slower pace of life and the lack of certain amenities that you might be used to. For example, you might not have access to high-speed internet or the same level of healthcare that you're used to. Additionally, you'll need to be prepared for power outages and water shortages, which can be common in Cambodia.Overall, living in Battambang on $3,000 a month is definitely doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your spending and adapting to the local lifestyle, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this charming Cambodian city," said one expat living in Battambang.

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

"I've been living in Battambang 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. There are some sacrifices you'll have to make, but overall, it's a great place to live.First, let's talk about housing. There are plenty of affordable neighborhoods in Battambang, such as Toul Ta Ek, Svay Por, and Prek Preah Sdach. These areas offer a mix of local and expat-friendly housing options, with rents ranging from $200 to $500 per month for a decent apartment or house. You might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Wat Bo and Wat Damnak, as these areas cater more to tourists and can be quite pricey.When it comes to utilities and internet, you'll find that they're generally affordable. Electricity can be a bit expensive, especially if you're using air conditioning, but it's manageable. Internet is relatively cheap, and you can get a good connection for around $20 to $30 per month.Food is another area where you can save money. Local markets and street food vendors offer delicious and affordable meals, with dishes costing around $1 to $3. If you prefer to cook at home, you can find fresh produce and ingredients at the local markets for a fraction of the cost you'd pay in a Western country. Of course, if you want to eat at more upscale restaurants or indulge in imported goods, you'll need to budget for that.Transportation is also quite affordable in Battambang. You can rent a motorbike for around $50 to $100 per month, or use tuk-tuks and taxis for short trips. If you're planning to travel around Cambodia or to neighboring countries, you'll find that bus and train tickets are reasonably priced as well.As for sacrifices, you might find that some modern amenities you're used to aren't as readily available in Battambang. For example, you might not have access to the same variety of international products or brands that you're used to. Additionally, while healthcare in Cambodia is improving, it might not be up to the same standards as in your home country, so you'll need to be prepared for that.Overall, living in Battambang on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, and you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while still having some money left over for savings or travel. Just be prepared to adapt to a different way of life and embrace the local culture, and you'll have a great experience living in this charming Cambodian city," commented an expat living in Battambang.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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