Can I Afford to Live in Phnom Penh vs Penang on $75K?

Here's how a $75K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Phnom Penh, KH
$4,741/mo take-home
Rent: $350/mo (7% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Penang, MY
$4,741/mo take-home
Rent: $460/mo (10% of take-home)
Very comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Phnom Penh
KH
Penang
MY
Monthly take-home (est.)
$4,741Best ✓
$4,741
1BR rent
$350Best ✓
$460
Groceries (est.)
$380Best ✓
$380
Transport (est.)
$150Best ✓
$150
Utilities
$60
$55Best ✓
Internet
$40
$22Best ✓
Left after essentials
$3,761/month
$3,674/month
Both Phnom Penh and Penang have no state income tax — your take-home is higher than in most states.

Frequently asked questions

Is $75K a good salary in Phnom Penh?

At $75K/year in Phnom Penh, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,741. With 1BR rent around $350/month, rent takes up 7% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $75K a good salary in Penang?

At $75K/year in Penang, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,741. With 1BR rent around $460/month, rent takes up 10% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $75K salary?

Phnom Penh leaves you with more money after core expenses — $3,761/month vs $3,674/month in Penang.

Can I afford to live alone in Phnom Penh on $75K?

Yes. At $75K in Phnom Penh, rent takes 7% of your take-home, leaving $3,761/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Phnom Penh vs Penang

$40K$50K$60K$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