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Phnom Penh vs Kunming – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Kunming, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Phnom Penh has a monthly cost of $1,870, which is 7.4% lower than Kunming's $2,020.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Phnom Penh offers 25 Mbps, while Kunming provides 50 Mbps making Kunming's connection 100.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Phnom Penh is currently 35°C 🌤️, while Kunming is experiencing 24°C ⛈️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Phnom Penh has a safety score of 68.0 , while Kunming scores 78.0 .

Costs
$1,870
per month
Internet
25
Mbps
Weather
35° 🌤️
High today
Costs
$2,020
per month
Internet
50
Mbps
Weather
24° ⛈️
High today
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Overall Phnom Penh wins

65.0
Overall Score
62.0

Quality of Life Kunming wins

68.0
Safety
78.0

Kunming is 10% better

59.0
Healthcare
69.0

Kunming is 10% better

Cost Phnom Penh wins

87.0
Cost of Living
81.0

Phnom Penh is 6% better

Climate Kunming wins

39.0
Air Quality
60.0

Kunming is 21% better

Infrastructure Phnom Penh wins

68.0
Internet Speed
65.0

Social Phnom Penh wins

67.0
Nightlife
51.0

Phnom Penh is 16% better

79.0
Culture
83.0
83.0
Food Scene
84.0

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Phnom Penh Kunming Difference
Monthly Total $1,870 $2,020 -7.4%
Daily Average $62 $67 per day

Housing

Item Phnom Penh Kunming Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $350.00 per month $320.00 per month +9.4%

Daily Life

Item Phnom Penh Kunming Difference
Coffee $1.50 per cup $1.50 per cup 0.0%

Transportation

Item Phnom Penh Kunming Difference

Utilities

Item Phnom Penh Kunming Difference
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Final Verdict: Phnom Penh vs Kunming

Phnom Penh ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 3.0% higher than Kunming overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $1,870 vs $2,020
  • Daily Expenses: $62 vs $67
  • Phnom Penh is 7.4% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Kunming leads with 50% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Kunming has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Phnom Penh Wins In:
  • Cost of Living (6% better)
  • Nightlife (16% better)
Kunming Wins In:
  • Safety (10% better)
  • Healthcare (10% better)
  • Air Quality (21% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Phnom Penh if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Safety. However, Kunming might be preferable if Safety is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.

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