A Study on Housing Affordability Problems Among Working Households in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Abstract

Phnom Penhs housing affordability crisis, driven by rapid urbanization and income inequality, disproportionately affects working households, with 78.8% earning ? $1,200/month. This study identifies key affordability barriers and evaluates policy solutions to bridge the gap between income and housing costs. A quantitative survey of 151 households analyzed via descriptive statistics, factor analysis (KMO = 0.896), and PIR metrics. Five critical barriers emerged: policy gaps, financial constraints, market dynamics, limited awareness, and alternative preferences. The PIR revealed severe unaffordability (PIR > 5), with only homes priced ? $32,400 deemed accessible. Respondents strongly supported low-interest loans (<5%), affordable housing quotas (20%), and financial literacy programs. The study advocates for enforced policy interventions, developer mandates, and multi-sector collaboration, offering a replicable framework for rapidly urbanizing contexts. Findings align with global affordability strategies  while addressing Cambodia-specific gaps in policy implementation and financial accessibility.