The Best Places to Live in Cambodia

Looking for the best places to live in Cambodia? As Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing travel destination; Cambodian tourist arrivals have increased by 20% yearly, pre-covid. That’s for a reason.

With uncomplicated long-term visas, a dollarized economy, and a low cost of living, an ever-growing number of westerners have decided to live in Cambodia. 

Favorable demographics, stable economic growth, and promising foreign investment opportunities have seen many people suggesting that Cambodia’s economic rise is only beginning.

Read on to learn about the best places to live in Cambodia. 

Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is the most populous city and the country’s economic and political center.

With a tasteful mix of old and new, Phnom Penh has many different properties, cultural attractions, and things to do.

Many good neighborhoods exist, particularly Daun Penh, BKK1, and Riverside.

The cost of living is higher than the rest of the country, but still modest compared to other regional capitals, such as Bangkok and Manila.

We have a comprehensive article on living in Phnom Penh here.

Kampot 

Kampot is a riverside town on the eastern coast of Cambodia.

If you’re looking for a peaceful town and a good quality of life, look no further than here.

Fairly popular with retirees, the surrounding areas are green and lush and accommodation is well-priced.

Food options are great, there are a few nice bars along the river, and the beach (and Kep) aren’t far away.

Kep

Thirty minutes from Kampot, you’ll find the beautiful coastal town of Kep. 

Famous for its seafood and beautiful beach, this tiny town is a great place to go if you want a slower, calmer pace of life.

Kep was the home of many French colonial villas, some of which are now guesthouses.

Kep isn’t as connected as the other places on the list, but it’s a half an hour’s drive to Kampot, with provides some of the amenities that Kep lacks.

Siem Reap

Home to Angkor and all its temples, Siem Reap is a rapidly developing city of 250,000 people, surrounded by incredible temples, canals, and barays (ancient reservoirs).

There is plenty to do here; explore ancient ruins, enjoy the great nightlife, and learn about Khmer culture in Cambodia’s heartland.

The area is seeing a lot of investment and tourist money coming in, thanks to the draw of Angkor Wat, often cited as the 8th wonder of the world.

If you want to live in a place with a healthy balance of western and Cambodian influences, look no further than Siem Reap. 

Battambang

A somewhat notable mention, Battambang (ba-TAM-bong) is an emerging tourist destination. 

Easily the most Cambodian of the places on this list, Battambang is a small city, south of lake Tonle Sap.

Upon arrival, I was underwhelmed, but after staying a while I understood the city’s charm.

The surrounding countryside is stunning, the people are kind, the food is good, and it’s considerably cheaper than most places on this list.

As with much of the country, this city is experiencing significant economic growth and the province produces the most rice in Cambodia.

Where Will You Live?

Cambodia has a variety of places to live. From lively Phnom Penh to quiet Kampot, there’s bound to be something perfect for you.

If you’re looking to retire, work online, or travel through this beautiful country, book a call with us. We can make it happen.