Can I Afford to Live in Phnom Penh vs Panama City on $60K?

Here's how a $60K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Phnom Penh, KH
$3,793/mo take-home
Rent: $350/mo (9% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Panama City, PA
$3,793/mo take-home
Rent: $900/mo (24% of take-home)
Comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Phnom Penh
KH
Panama City
PA
Monthly take-home (est.)
$3,793Best ✓
$3,793
1BR rent
$350Best ✓
$900
Groceries (est.)
$380Best ✓
$380
Transport (est.)
$150Best ✓
$150
Utilities
$60Best ✓
$70
Internet
$40Best ✓
$40
Left after essentials
$2,813/month
$2,253/month
Both Phnom Penh and Panama City have no state income tax — your take-home is higher than in most states.

Frequently asked questions

Is $60K a good salary in Phnom Penh?

At $60K/year in Phnom Penh, your estimated monthly take-home is $3,793. With 1BR rent around $350/month, rent takes up 9% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $60K a good salary in Panama City?

At $60K/year in Panama City, your estimated monthly take-home is $3,793. With 1BR rent around $900/month, rent takes up 24% of your take-home. That's considered comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $60K salary?

Phnom Penh leaves you with more money after core expenses — $2,813/month vs $2,253/month in Panama City.

Can I afford to live alone in Phnom Penh on $60K?

Yes. At $60K in Phnom Penh, rent takes 9% of your take-home, leaving $2,813/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Phnom Penh vs Panama City

$40K$50K$75K$80K$100K$120K$150K

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

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