Can I Afford to Live in Phnom Penh vs Chicago on $40K?
Here's how a $40K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | Phnom Penh KH | Chicago IL |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $2,728 | $2,565 |
| 1BR rent | $350 | $1,900 |
| Groceries (est.) | $380 | $388 |
| Transport (est.) | $150 | $105 |
| Utilities | $60 | $165 |
| Internet | $40 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $1,748/month | -$58/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $40K a good salary in Phnom Penh?
At $40K/year in Phnom Penh, your estimated monthly take-home is $2,728. With 1BR rent around $350/month, rent takes up 13% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Is $40K a good salary in Chicago?
At $40K/year in Chicago, your estimated monthly take-home is $2,565. With 1BR rent around $1,900/month, rent takes up 74% of your take-home. That's considered difficult.
Which city is more affordable on a $40K salary?
Phnom Penh leaves you with more money after core expenses — $1,748/month vs $-58/month in Chicago.
Can I afford to live alone in Phnom Penh on $40K?
Yes. At $40K in Phnom Penh, rent takes 13% of your take-home, leaving $1,748/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only