Moving from Phnom Penh to Cebu City (2026)

Cebu City has a COL index of 37 vs 30 for Phnom Penh (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 23% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$50 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
30 โ†’ 37
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$350 โ†’ $400
per month
State tax
None โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
30 โ†’ 37
23% more expensive

Salary needed in Cebu City to match your Phnom Penh lifestyle

Based on the 23% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Phnom PenhEquivalent in Cebu City
$40K$49,333
$50K$61,667
$60K$74,000
$75K$92,500
$80K$98,667
$100K$123,333
$120K$148,000
$150K$185,000

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$30/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Phnom Penh vs Cebu City

ExpensePhnom PenhCebu City
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$350$400
Groceries$380$380
Transport$150$150
Utilities$60$55
Internet$40$25
Left after essentials$3,761$3,731

Frequently asked questions

Is Cebu City cheaper than Phnom Penh?

No. Cebu City has a cost of living index of 37 vs 30 for Phnom Penh (100 = US average). That's about 23% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Phnom Penh to Cebu City?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Cebu City run about $50/month more than Phnom Penh. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Cebu City to match my Phnom Penh lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phnom Penh, you'd need roughly $92,500/year in Cebu City. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only