Tacna vs. Siem Reap: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Tacna, Peru, presents a more economically developed regional context compared to Siem Reap, Cambodia, as indicated by its higher GDP per capita ($15,300) and larger population (286,240). This economic strength translates into a higher average net monthly salary ($475.62) than Siem Reap's ($220.08). However, Siem Reap demonstrates a faster population growth rate (0.99% annually), suggesting different demographic and economic trajectories.

The economic disparity directly influences the cost of living and housing market. Tacna offers significantly lower costs for essentials like food, transportation, and utilities than Siem Reap. This is starkly evident in housing, where a 1-bedroom apartment outside the center in Tacna costs just $71.34 per month, a fraction of Siem Reap's minimum of $237.33. Furthermore, the cost to buy an apartment outside the center in Siem Reap is $1,084.80 per square meter, substantially higher than the Tacna rental market rate for a 1-bedroom apartment.

While direct quality of life metrics are limited, the data reveals contrasting realities. Siem Reap generally has lower prices for basic groceries like milk, bread, rice, eggs, chicken, and beef per kilogram compared to Tacna. However, this advantage is offset by higher childcare costs ($250.00/month in Siem Reap versus $59.45 in Tacna) and significantly more expensive utilities ($83.69/month average in Siem Reap). Transportation costs, however, show Siem Reap slightly cheaper for local one-way tickets ($1.00 vs. $0.30), though taxi starts are marginally higher ($2.00 vs. $1.49).

From an investment and career standpoint, the data favors Tacna for potentially higher income. The city's higher GDP per capita and salaries ($475.62) suggest more lucrative regional opportunities in Peru. This, combined with the city's lower overall cost of living, particularly housing, means the higher salary could provide a better standard of living than the lower salaries ($220.08) in Siem Reap, despite its lower GDP per capita ($6,700). Conversely, Siem Reap's lower cost for certain consumables and proximity to major tourism sites like Angkor Wat might appeal to those prioritizing specific career paths, though the higher mortgage interest rate (9.2%) adds financial pressure.

Ultimately, the choice between Tacna and Siem Reap depends heavily on individual priorities. Tacna offers a higher income base and a significantly lower cost of living, particularly for housing, making it attractive for those seeking economic comfort within Peru. Siem Reap presents lower daily expenses for groceries and public transport, alongside potential tourism job opportunities, but comes with much lower salaries, higher property costs relative to income, and a higher mortgage interest rate, representing a different financial and quality-of-life equation.