22 cities covered · Currency: LAK (₭) · Capital: Vientiane
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ₭88,881 ($4.13) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ₭355,524 ($16.54) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ₭26,664 ($1.24) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ₭2,014,636 ($93.70) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ₭325,897 ($15.16) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ₭859,183 ($39.96) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ₭248,867 ($11.58) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ₭248,867 ($11.58) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ₭65,179 ($3.03) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₭3,988,962 ($186) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ₭2,774,930 ($129) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₭8,324,790 ($387) | per month |
Viangchan · pop. 948,487
Savannakhét · pop. 124,000
Champasak · pop. 119,848
Salavan · pop. 100,900
Oudômxai · pop. 79,500
Xaignabouli · pop. 75,700
Khammouan · pop. 70,000
Champasak · pop. 62,728
Houaphan · pop. 56,900
Louangphabang · pop. 53,792
Bolikhamxai · pop. 45,000
Xiangkhouang · pop. 37,507
Louangnamtha · pop. 28,551
Viangchan · pop. 25,000
Louangnamtha · pop. 23,500
Attapu · pop. 19,200
Bokèo · pop. 17,687
Phôngsali · pop. 15,083
Xaisômboun · small town
Viangchan · small town
Xiangkhouang · small town
Xékong · small town
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Laos
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Laos
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Laos
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Laos
Living costs in Laos vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of ₭8,700,330 ($405) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.