Cost of Utilities in Houses and Apartments in Cambodia
As Cambodia continues to attract expats with its vibrant culture and relatively low cost of living, understanding utility costs is essential for both short-term visitors and long-term residents.
Knowing what to expect in monthly utility expenses can help you budget more accurately and avoid unexpected bills. This guide covers essential utilities, typical costs, and tips to manage expenses for various types of housing in Cambodia.
General Overview of Utility Costs in Cambodia
In Cambodia, the main utility costs include electricity, water, internet, and garbage collection. While basic utility expenses are generally affordable, they can vary based on housing type and region, with cities like Phnom Penh often having higher utility rates than smaller cities or rural areas. On average, utility costs for a moderate lifestyle can range between $50 and $150 monthly, depending on property type, usage habits, and location. Below is a general summary:
| Utility | Monthly Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $50 – $100 | Variable based on AC use, appliances, and location. |
| Water | $5 – $10 | May be included in rent for apartments. |
| Internet | $20 – $50 | Depends on provider and speed. |
| Cable TV | $5 – $15 | Often optional; channels vary by package. |
| Garbage | $1 – $5 | Typically included in rent; varies by city and rural area. |
Electricity Costs
Electricity is a significant expense, especially in a hot climate where air conditioning is commonly used. Rates can vary by region, with urban areas generally having slightly higher prices. Here’s a breakdown of typical electricity rates and usage patterns in Cambodia.
Pricing Structure
The price of electricity in Cambodia generally ranges from $0.25 to $0.30 per kWh, though rates may be higher in areas with greater demand. For example, in Phnom Penh, rates are on the higher end, while cities like Kampot and Siem Reap tend to be slightly cheaper. The below table outlines typical monthly bills based on common usage scenarios:
| Usage Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Usage (no air conditioning) | $30 – $50 | Fan, lighting, electronics only. |
| Moderate Usage (occasional AC) | $50 – $100 | Regular use of fans, occasional AC. |
| High Usage (frequent AC, appliances) | $100 – $150+ | AC frequently, washing machine, multiple appliances. |
Common Usage Scenarios
The amount you pay for electricity can fluctuate significantly based on lifestyle. Air conditioning, hot water heaters, and high-energy appliances contribute to higher costs. An apartment that relies primarily on fans and minimal AC can keep costs closer to $50, while an apartment with multiple AC units in frequent use can see bills of $100 or more.
Recommendations for Managing Costs
To keep electricity costs down, consider the following tips:
- Use fans instead of AC where possible, especially at night.
- Invest in energy-efficient appliances to lower monthly bills.
- Turn off or unplug appliances when not in use, as even idle devices can draw power.
- Set AC temperature higher (e.g., 25°C/77°F) for energy efficiency.
For more insights on managing electricity costs, see this Khmer Times article.
Water Costs
Water costs in Cambodia are relatively low but can vary slightly based on housing type and rental agreements.
Pricing Structure
In most areas, water costs around $5 to $10 per month. Apartments may include water in the rent, while standalone houses might charge separately based on cubic meter usage. Here’s an overview of typical monthly water costs:
| Property Type | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment (shared cost) | $5 – $10 | Often included in rent. |
| House (metered) | $5 – $15 | Cost depends on water consumption. |
Factors Affecting Water Bills
- Rental Agreements: Apartments frequently include water in rent, though it’s advisable to confirm with your landlord.
- Usage: Houses with individual meters will bill based on actual consumption, potentially leading to higher costs than apartments.
Internet and Cable Television Costs
Internet access in Cambodia is generally affordable and widely available, though prices and service quality can vary by provider.
Internet Pricing
Monthly costs for internet services range from $20 to $50 depending on the desired speed and data package. Below is a breakdown of average internet costs based on speed:
| Speed (Mbps) | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Providers |
|---|---|---|
| 5 – 10 Mbps | $20 – $30 | Cellcard, Metfone |
| 20 – 30 Mbps | $30 – $40 | EZECOM, MekongNet |
| 50 Mbps and above | $40 – $50 | Online, Digi |
Providers such as EZECOM and Cellcard are popular, especially in urban areas. Many expats also prefer fiber-optic connections for higher reliability, especially if working from home.
Cable Television Costs
Cable television is optional and inexpensive, usually ranging between $5 and $15 per month. Most packages offer a mix of local and international channels.
Garbage Collection Fees
Garbage collection costs are nominal and typically range from $1 to $5 per month. In many cases, this fee is included in the rent, especially in apartments.
| Location | Typical Monthly Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Urban (e.g., Phnom Penh) | Included in rent or $1 – $5 | Regular collection schedule. |
| Rural areas | Often included, may be less regular | Varies depending on location. |
Garbage collection services in urban areas tend to be more reliable, while in rural areas, services may be infrequent.
Summary of Utility Costs by Property Type
Utility costs can vary based on property type, with apartments typically being more affordable due to shared resources and smaller space. Below is a comparison:
| Utility | Apartment (Monthly USD) | House (Monthly USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $50 – $80 | $80 – $150 |
| Water | $5 – $10 | $5 – $15 |
| Internet | $20 – $50 | $20 – $50 |
| Cable TV | $5 – $15 | $5 – $15 |
| Garbage | $1 – $5 | $1 – $5 |
Apartments are generally more cost-effective for utilities due to shared infrastructure, while standalone houses incur higher costs, especially for electricity and water.
Impact of Location on Utility Costs
Location plays a significant role in utility costs. Phnom Penh, as the capital, generally has the highest rates, while cities like Siem Reap or Kampot offer slightly lower utility expenses.
| City | Average Utility Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | $100 – $150 | Higher electricity rates, urban fees |
| Siem Reap | $70 – $100 | Moderate rates, tourism influence |
| Kampot | $60 – $90 | Lower rates, more rural setting |
For further city comparisons, refer to this Living Cost site.
Conclusion
Utilities in Cambodia are relatively affordable, though they vary based on factors like housing type, lifestyle, and location. By knowing typical costs and applying energy-saving tips, you can manage utility expenses effectively. Whether you’re staying in an apartment or a house, this guide provides a practical basis for planning your monthly budget in Cambodia.
For additional insights, explore this IPS Cambodia guide on cost of living, and visit International Living’s guide for a deeper look into Cambodia’s living expenses.
