Moving from Phnom Penh to El Paso (2026)

El Paso has a COL index of 80 vs 30 for Phnom Penh (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 167% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$700 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
30 โ†’ 80
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$350 โ†’ $1,050
per month
State tax
None โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
30 โ†’ 80
167% more expensive

Salary needed in El Paso to match your Phnom Penh lifestyle

Based on the 167% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Phnom PenhEquivalent in El Paso
$40K$106,667
$50K$133,333
$60K$160,000
$75K$200,000
$80K$213,333
$100K$266,667
$120K$320,000
$150K$400,000

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$691/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Phnom Penh vs El Paso

ExpensePhnom PenhEl Paso
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$350$1,050
Groceries$380$346
Transport$150$40
Utilities$60$175
Internet$40$60
Left after essentials$3,761$3,070

Frequently asked questions

Is El Paso cheaper than Phnom Penh?

No. El Paso has a cost of living index of 80 vs 30 for Phnom Penh (100 = US average). That's about 167% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Phnom Penh to El Paso?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in El Paso run about $700/month more than Phnom Penh. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in El Paso to match my Phnom Penh lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phnom Penh, you'd need roughly $200,000/year in El Paso. 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