Medellín vs Phnom Penh for Singles (2026)
Scroll down for rent burden, savings estimate, and FAQ.
Single-person cost breakdown
| Metric | Medellín Antioquia | Phnom Penh Phnom Penh |
|---|---|---|
| Studio rent / month | $380 | $260Better |
| 1BR rent / month | $500 | $350Better |
| Est. single-person income | — | — |
| Est. monthly take-home | — | — |
| Studio rent burden | — | — |
| Groceries index (US = 100) | — | — |
| State income tax | NoneBetter | None |
| Walk score | 72 / 100Better | 52 / 100 |
| Overall COL index (100 = US avg) | 35 | 30Better |
Your biggest money opportunities based on this comparison.
Renters insurance
Phnom Penh saves ~$120/mo on rent
Solo renters often skip insurance — but your electronics, furniture, and belongings add up fast.
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Mortgages
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Home & Auto Insurance
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Frequently asked questions
Which city is more affordable for a single person — Medellín or Phnom Penh?
For a single person, Phnom Penh comes out ahead on overall affordability. Studio rents are $380 in Medellín vs $260 in Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh is ~14% cheaper overall, which matters significantly on a single income.
What is the rent burden for a single person in Medellín vs Phnom Penh?
Studio rent or income data is not available for Medellín.
How much can a single person save each month in Medellín vs Phnom Penh?
Savings estimates require income and rent data, which is not fully available for one or both cities.
Is it worth living alone in Medellín vs getting a roommate in Phnom Penh?
Splitting a 1BR in Phnom Penh ($350/person) vs a solo studio in Medellín ($380): splitting a 1BR in Phnom Penh ($175/person) is cheaper than a solo studio in Medellín ($380). Factor in the privacy premium and your living preferences when deciding.
Which city is better for a single person's social life?
Walkability is a proxy for urban density and access to dining, entertainment, and social spaces without a car. Medellín scores higher (72/100) — very walkable — great for spontaneous dining and social outings. For singles, a walkable neighborhood can significantly reduce the cost and friction of having an active social life.
Single-person income estimated at 60% of median household income. Take-home calculated using state income tax rate only. Savings estimate subtracts rent and estimated basic living costs. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026