Cambodia: cost of living

What is the inflation rate in Cambodia?

Consumer prices in Cambodia rose 4.8% in the year to August 2026, according to the National Institute of Statistics, which compiles the national consumer price index. Inflation was 5.50% in July, down from a peak of 7.19% in May, according to the National Bank of Cambodia's July 2026 statistics bulletin.

The NBC bulletin shows that in July 2026 food prices were 6.56% higher than a year earlier and housing, water, electricity and fuel costs 7.27% higher. Transport prices rose 12.88% in the year to May but slowed to 2.07% by July, after falling month on month. Monthly CPI reports are on the NIS national CPI page.

Official sources: National Institute of Statistics · July 2026 statistics bulletin · national CPI page

How fast are food and transport prices rising in Cambodia?

Food prices in Cambodia were 5.31% higher in September 2026 than a year earlier, and transport prices 9.99% higher, according to the consumer price index table in the National Bank of Cambodia's CPI and inflation data. Housing, water, electricity and fuel costs rose 6.40% and restaurant prices 3.45%.

Overall consumer prices rose 5.32% in the year to September, up from 4.79% in August, and 1.11% in the month. The index is compiled by the National Institute of Statistics and covers prices of goods and services bought by households. Transport prices move mainly with fuel costs, so they change faster than other parts of the index.

Official sources: CPI and inflation data

How much does electricity cost in Cambodia?

Households on Cambodia's national grid pay 380 riels per kWh for the first 10 kWh a month in 2026, 480 riels for use of 11 to 50 kWh, 610 riels for 51 to 200 kWh and 730 riels above 200 kWh, according to the Electricity Authority of Cambodia's Salient Features of the Power Sector 2025.

The tariffs are set in steps by monthly use, so small users pay the lowest rate. They have not changed since 2020. Businesses and industry pay tariffs in US dollars, for example USD 0.1580 per kWh for commercial users connected at medium voltage. Some areas supplied in other ways have their own residential rates, such as 600 riels in Snuol.

Official sources: Salient Features of the Power Sector 2025

What do Cambodian households spend their money on?

Food and non-alcoholic drinks made up 49.7% of Cambodian household spending in 2023, according to the National Institute of Statistics' Cambodia Socio-Economic Survey 2023. Housing, water, electricity and furnishings took 22.1%, transport and communication 10.8%, health 5.7% and education, recreation and culture 3.4%.

The survey records what households spend and consume over the year, including the value of food grown for their own use and the rent value of homes they own. A high share spent on food is typical of households with lower incomes, so rises in food prices weigh heavily on household budgets.

Official sources: Cambodia Socio-Economic Survey 2023

What is the inflation rate in Cambodia?

According to the IMF, consumer price inflation in Cambodia was 2.4% in 2025. Since 2005 it has ranged from -1.2% (2009) to 24.1% (2008). It is 11th highest of 24 in East Asia & Pacific, where the median is 2.2%. Worldwide: 99th of 165.

What is household spending per person in Cambodia?

$1,380: that is household consumption per person in Cambodia for 2025, according to the World Bank. No year since 2005 has been higher. Across East Asia & Pacific the middle value was $3,794, and Cambodia placed 12th highest of 12. Of 124 countries with 2025 data, 97th highest.

How many people in Cambodia face food insecurity?

36.4%: that is moderate or severe food insecurity in Cambodia for 2024, according to the FAO. That is the lowest since at least 2015. Across East Asia & Pacific the middle value was 15.4%, and Cambodia placed 2nd highest of 17. Worldwide: 41st of 135.