What Salary Is Considered Good in Cambodia 2026?
Cambodia continues to experience steady economic growth, expanding urban development, and increasing foreign investment. As more businesses, technology companies, manufacturing firms, and service industries grow across the country, many people are asking an important question: what salary is considered good in Cambodia in 2026?
The answer depends on several factors, including location, lifestyle, family size, occupation, and career experience. Someone living in Phnom Penh may require a higher income than a person living in a provincial town. Likewise, expatriates, professionals, and business owners often have different income expectations than local entry-level workers.
This comprehensive Cambodia salary guide explains the latest income trends, average earnings, cost of living, and what income level allows individuals and families to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in 2026.
Understanding Salary in Cambodia 2026
The salary in Cambodia 2026 varies greatly across industries and regions. Cambodia's economy remains heavily supported by garment manufacturing, tourism, construction, agriculture, retail, and an expanding service sector.
Over the past decade, salaries have gradually increased due to:
• Economic growth
• Rising urbanization
• Increased foreign investment
• Growth in digital industries
• Expanding education opportunities
• Higher living expenses
While wages continue to rise, the gap between low-income and high-income earners remains significant.
Average Monthly Salary in Cambodia 2026
The average monthly salary in Cambodia 2026 depends largely on education, skills, and industry.
Approximate monthly salary ranges include:
Occupation Monthly Salary
Factory workers $250–$400
Retail employees $250–$500
Office staff $400–$700
Teachers $400–$1,000
Accountants $600–$1,500
IT professionals $800–$2,500
Managers $1,500–$4,000
Executives $3,000+
The national average salary in Cambodia is generally estimated to fall between $500 and $800 per month, although incomes vary considerably between urban and rural areas.
In Phnom Penh, average earnings are significantly higher than in smaller provinces.
Cambodia Income Levels in 2026
Understanding Cambodia income levels helps determine whether a salary is considered low, average, or high.
Low Income
• Below $300 per month
• Covers only basic necessities
• Limited savings opportunities
Lower Middle Income
• $300–$600 per month
• Basic living expenses covered
• Modest lifestyle
Middle Income
• $600–$1,500 per month
• Better housing options
• Transportation ownership possible
• Some savings capability
Upper Middle Income
• $1,500–$3,000 per month
• Comfortable urban lifestyle
• International education options
• Frequent travel and leisure activities
High Income
• Above $3,000 per month
• Premium housing
• Private healthcare
• Significant savings and investments
These Cambodia income levels provide a useful benchmark for evaluating personal financial situations.
Cambodia Cost of Living in 2026
The Cambodia cost of living remains lower than many neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, although expenses continue to increase in major cities.
Typical monthly expenses for one person include:
Expense Estimated Cost
Rent (studio apartment) $200–$500
Utilities $40–$100
Internet $15–$30
Food $150–$300
Transportation $50–$150
Healthcare $30–$100
Entertainment $50–$200
Total monthly living costs generally range from:
• $500–$800 for basic living
• $800–$1,500 for comfortable living
• $1,500+ for premium lifestyles
Understanding the Cambodia cost of living is essential when evaluating salary expectations.
Living Wage Cambodia: What Does It Mean?
The concept of a living wage Cambodia refers to the amount of money needed to afford basic necessities, including:
• Housing
• Food
• Transportation
• Healthcare
• Education
• Utilities
• Clothing
A living wage differs from the minimum wage because it reflects actual living expenses.
In 2026, many analysts estimate that a single person in Phnom Penh requires approximately:
• $500–$700 monthly for basic needs
• $800–$1,200 for comfortable living
For families, the required income increases considerably depending on the number of dependents.
The discussion around living wage Cambodia continues as living costs rise.
What Salary Is Considered Good in Cambodia?
So, what salary is considered good in Cambodia?
For many local professionals in 2026:
• $700–$1,000 monthly is considered decent.
• $1,000–$1,500 monthly is considered good.
• $1,500+ monthly is considered very good.
A salary becomes "good" when it allows individuals to:
• Cover living expenses comfortably
• Save money regularly
• Enjoy leisure activities
• Handle emergencies
• Invest for the future
Therefore, a good salary in Cambodia generally starts around $1,000 per month, especially in urban areas.
Good Salary in Cambodia for Singles
For a single professional living in Phnom Penh:
$500–$700 per month
• Shared housing
• Basic lifestyle
• Limited savings
$800–$1,200 per month
• Private apartment
• Comfortable living
• Regular dining out
• Some savings
$1,500+ per month
• Premium housing
• Car ownership possible
• Frequent travel
• Strong financial security
Many young professionals view $1,000 monthly as a realistic good salary in Cambodia.
Good Salary in Cambodia for Families
Families naturally require higher incomes.
Monthly household budgets may include:
• Rent
• School fees
• Healthcare
• Transportation
• Groceries
• Utilities
What Is a Middle-Class Salary in Cambodia?
Many people ask, what is a middle-class salary in Cambodia?
Middle-class households generally have:
• Stable employment
• Savings ability
• Better housing
• Transportation ownership
• Education opportunities
A typical middle-class salary in Cambodia ranges between:
• $800–$1,500 monthly for individuals
• $1,500–$3,000 monthly for households
Middle-class families often live in urban areas and work in professional occupations such as:
• Banking
• Information technology
• Education
• Healthcare
• Management
• Government administration
Therefore, the answer to what is a middle-class salary in Cambodia depends on household size and lifestyle expectations.
How Much Salary Is Enough to Live Comfortably in Cambodia?
Another common question is how much salary is enough to live comfortably in Cambodia.
Comfortable living usually includes:
• Private accommodation
• Healthy food choices
• Transportation
• Entertainment
• Savings
• Emergency funds
Estimated comfortable income levels:
Single Person
• $900–$1,500 monthly
Couple
• $1,500–$2,500 monthly
Family
• $2,500+ monthly
The answer to how much salary is enough to live comfortably in Cambodia depends heavily on location and spending habits.
Salary Differences Between Cities
Phnom Penh
Highest salaries in Cambodia.
• Finance
• Technology
• International companies
• Management positions
Siem Reap
Tourism-based economy.
• Hospitality jobs
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Tour services
Sihanoukville
Construction, logistics, and tourism.
Provincial Areas
Lower wages but also lower living costs.
Urban residents generally earn more but face higher expenses.
Highest-Paying Industries in Cambodia
Several industries offer excellent earning opportunities.
Information Technology
• Software developers
• IT managers
• Data specialists
Salary range: $800–$3,000+
Banking and Finance
• Financial analysts
• Accountants
• Managers
Salary range: $700–$3,500+
International Organizations
• NGOs
• Development agencies
Salary range: $1,000–$4,000+
Engineering
• Civil engineers
• Project managers
Salary range: $800–$3,000+
Management
• Department heads
• Directors
Salary range: $1,500–$5,000+
These sectors often provide some of the highest salaries in the country.
Expat Salaries in Cambodia
Foreign workers often earn more than local employees.
Common expatriate salaries:
• Teachers: $1,000–$2,500
• Managers: $2,000–$5,000
• Executives: $4,000+
Many expatriate packages also include:
• Housing allowances
• Health insurance
• Transportation benefits
• Paid leave
However, living expectations may also be higher.
Minimum Wage Versus Good Salary
The minimum wage mainly applies to garment workers.
Although minimum wages have gradually increased, they do not necessarily represent a comfortable income level.
A minimum wage usually covers:
• Basic food
• Shared housing
• Transportation
A good salary in Cambodia goes beyond survival and allows financial stability and future planning.
How to Increase Your Salary in Cambodia
Professionals seeking higher earnings can improve their income by:
Improving Skills
Learning:
• English
• Chinese
• Technology skills
• Digital marketing
• Programming
Obtaining Certifications
Professional qualifications increase employability.
Building Experience
Work experience often leads to promotions.
Networking
Professional connections can create better job opportunities.
Changing Industries
High-growth sectors frequently offer better salaries.
Career development remains one of the best ways to improve income.
Future Salary Trends in Cambodia
Several trends may influence future wages:
• Digital transformation
• Foreign investment
• Growth of technology sectors
• Infrastructure development
• Increased education levels
Many experts expect gradual wage increases over the coming years.
However, rising living costs may offset some salary growth.
Employees will likely place greater emphasis on:
• Benefits
• Work-life balance
• Career advancement
• Flexible working arrangements
These trends will continue shaping the salary in Cambodia 2026 and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Determining what salary is considered good in Cambodia depends on lifestyle, family size, location, and financial goals.
The average salary in Cambodia may range between $500 and $800 monthly, but many professionals seek higher incomes to achieve financial comfort.
A good salary in Cambodia generally starts around $1,000 per month, while middle-class households often earn between $1,500 and $3,000 monthly.
Understanding the Cambodia cost of living, living wage Cambodia, and changing Cambodia income levels helps individuals make informed career and financial decisions.
Ultimately, the answer to how much salary is enough to live comfortably in Cambodia depends on personal expectations. For many people in 2026, a stable income that covers expenses, supports savings, and provides a reasonable quality of life represents the true definition of a good salary.
