The Best Places To Live In Cambodia For Expats 

From Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap to Kampot & Kep, Cambodia has some of the best places for expats to live. As an expat you will feel right at home here, thanks to the friendly and welcoming locals.

The country offers a rich history as is it home to some of the most historic ruins in the world and at the same time, it also offers a nice place to relax thanks to its beautiful beaches. You will also be glad to learn that Cambodia has a lot of places that are ideal for expats to settle in, owing to the variety of cities in the country. 

However, how do you know which place is best for you? Well, lucky for you we’ve put together a comprehensive list of places in Cambodia that are ideal for expats. 

Best Places In Cambodia For Expats  

From the developed city of Phon Penh to the coastal town of Sihanoukville, Cambodia has some of the best cities to live in, in South East Asia for expats. All thanks to the low cost of living, lively atmosphere, breathtaking views of beaches, and tons of history. 

Now, speaking of lifestyle, you can find some of the best international schools for your kids and good healthcare centers for your family in Cambodia. And if you are a retired expat looking for a laid-back lifestyle there are also plenty of quiet and small towns to choose from. 

Here are some of the best places in Cambodia for expats and digital nomads:

Phnom Penh 

The capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is one of the best cities to live in for expats in Southeast Asia. This city is ideal for expats families as there are international schools and good healthcare centers here. 

From vibrant culture to welcoming people and rich history, Phnom Penh makes you feel right at home in no time. One of the main reasons why it is popular among expat communities is its affordable cost of living. In fact, the cost of living in Phnom Penh is cheaper than in many other Asian cities such as Bangkok or Singapore. You can find comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and a variety of activities to enjoy without breaking the bank

The city is also great for retired expats as it offers a rather laid-back pace of life, and promises a refreshing change from busy lives in the big cities. You can kick back and relax in one of the city’s parks or at a cute cafe. 

The expat community in Phnom Penh is flourishing, thanks to the friendly locals. They are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature, and expats in Phnom Penh are sure to find themselves welcomed with open arms. Whether you’re looking to make new friends or indulge in local culture, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with the city’s residents here.

Siem Reap

One of Cambodia’s most popular destinations, Siem Reap is also a great place for expats to move to. The city offers a treasure-trove of things to do, you can spend your days exploring the ancient ruins, and temples and indulging in the best cuisines.

If Siem Reap sounds familiar, that is probably because you’ve heard of it before. The world-renowned Angkor Wat temples, which attract millions of visitors from around the world every year are located here. As an expat living in Siem Reap, you will have the opportunity to explore these ancient temples at your leisure and appreciate the beautiful history and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Moreover, Siem Reap is a small and welcoming city making it easy for you to move around and explore the city. The city’s location also is a huge plus, as you can travel to Vietnam more easily. So, if you love to explore, have good food, and are on a strict budget you must consider moving to Siem Reap! 

Sihanoukville

If you are a digital nomad planning to move to Cambodia, you must check out Sihanoukville. It is one of the best cities for expats to relocate to. The city offers a blend of modern and traditional infrastructure and beautiful beaches. 

It is a small beach town, making it popular among tourists and expats. The city also boasts great food, a low cost of living, and an overall great vibe. One of the main attractions of the city is the Kbal Chhay Waterfall, you can easily spend all day here soaking up all the nature. 

However, the one main problem with Sihanoukville is that there are no proper healthcare centers. In addition, because the town is still in a developing phase there is a lot of construction everywhere, and it’s quite polluted because of excessive tourism. 

Battambang 

Located in the northern parts of Cambodia, Battambang is perfect for expats, especially for those traveling with their partners. The city offers a relaxed pace of life and is surrounded by lush green forests.

One of the reasons why expats prefer Battambang is because of the fewer tourist crowds compared to other cities in Cambodia. Even though Battambang is the second largest city in the country it is less popular and is rather quiet throughout the year.

Another reason why this town is ideal for expats is because of its charm, thanks to the old colonial buildings, and ancient temples. All in all, Battambang offers everything Siem Reap does, but without the crowds. However, the lack of a crowd also implies the absence of a large expat community. So, if you are considering moving to Battambang be prepared for a lot of local food, shops, and culture. 

Kampot & Kep 

Kampot & Kep, the two coastal cities of Cambodia is a great place for expats. The simple lifestyle and low cost of living make it ideal for single expats, digital nomads, and remote workers. 

These two cities are located right next to each other and you can find beautiful French colonial villas along the coast, you can even stay in some of the renovated villas. The cities are also located close to the Bokor and Damrei mountains, so you can expect to see a lot of tourists. 

Kampot and Kep are small and sleepy towns, with limited job opportunities and Western food. But you can be sure to get some of the best seafood Cambodia has to offer and find an apartment for rent for about USD $150 per month. 

Koh Rong

If you dream of living on a tropical island, Koh Rong might be the perfect place for you. Located off the coast of Sihanoukville, this island is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed island vibe. Expats who move here can enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Koh Rong offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly bungalows to luxurious beachside resorts. The cost of living is affordable, and if you love seafood, you’ll be spoiled for choice with fresh catches daily. However, keep in mind that healthcare facilities on the island are limited, and you may need to travel to Sihanoukville for medical care.

For digital nomads and remote workers, the island’s internet can be inconsistent, but that’s a small price to pay for waking up to the sound of waves every morning. If you’re looking for an escape to paradise, Koh Rong is a great choice.

Kratie

If you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic Cambodian experience, Kratie is a hidden gem. Located along the Mekong River, this charming town is famous for its stunning sunsets, relaxed atmosphere, and rare Irrawaddy dolphins.

Kratie is perfect for expats who appreciate a slow pace of life and enjoy being close to nature. The town is small, which means fewer modern amenities, but you’ll find friendly locals, traditional markets, and a welcoming expat community.

One of the best things about living in Kratie is the cost of living—it’s incredibly affordable. Rent, food, and transportation are all budget-friendly, making it ideal for retirees or expats who prefer a minimalist lifestyle. However, access to quality healthcare is limited, so this is something to consider before making the move.

Kampong Cham

For expats who love riverside living, Kampong Cham is a great option. This city, located along the Mekong River, is the third-largest in Cambodia but still retains a small-town feel. It offers a unique mix of colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and modern conveniences.

Kampong Cham is an excellent choice for families, as it has international schools and a growing expat community. The cost of living here is lower than in Phnom Penh, and you can find spacious houses at affordable prices.

One of the biggest draws of Kampong Cham is its cycling-friendly roads, which make it easy to explore the countryside. If you’re looking for a peaceful, affordable, and scenic place to live, this riverside city is a great pick.

Mondulkiri

If you’re a nature lover, Mondulkiri might be the perfect home for you. Located in the eastern part of Cambodia, this province is known for its lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s a great place for expats who enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, elephant encounters, and waterfall hikes.

Mondulkiri offers a completely different vibe from Cambodia’s bustling cities. The expat community here is small but tight-knit, and locals are friendly and welcoming. The cost of living is low, and fresh organic produce is abundant.

However, Mondulkiri is a remote area, which means limited access to modern conveniences and healthcare facilities. If you’re seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid lifestyle surrounded by nature, this could be the place for you.

Takeo

Takeo is often overlooked by expats, but this historical province has plenty to offer. Located just south of Phnom Penh, Takeo is rich in ancient temples, serene countryside, and traditional Khmer culture.

The cost of living here is much lower than in the capital, making it an attractive option for expats on a budget. You can find affordable housing, fresh local food, and a peaceful environment while still being close enough to Phnom Penh for work or healthcare.

Takeo is perfect for history buffs and those who appreciate traditional Cambodian life. It may not have the nightlife or modern amenities of bigger cities, but it offers a relaxed lifestyle and easy access to nearby attractions like Phnom Chisor and Angkor Borei.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Cambodia safe for expats?

It is a good idea to stay vigilant about your surroundings and belongings when you are traveling in Cambodia. Violent crimes against foreigners are common in the country. So move in big groups and avoid walking or driving by yourself late at night.

Is it a good idea to move to Cambodia as an expat? 

Cambodia is undoubtedly one of the best places for expats to live in Asia, thanks to the beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and low cost of living. The expat community in Cambos is also on the rise with about 100.000 expats residing here.  

Where do most expats live in Cambodia?

While you can find the most number of expats in the capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, most English speakers live in Siem Reap. Cambodia has many places that are ideal for expats, so you can choose the right place for you based on your requirements.

Conclusion

While Cambodia has some of the most laid-back and scenic towns in Southeast Asia, if you are still convinced about moving here, there are many other places in Asia that are ideal for expats. 

Before your move, we would highly recommend you secure a comprehensive international health insurance plan as private hospital care in most Asian countries can be expensive. If you are unsure about where to start, you can always reach out to the insurance advisors at Pacific Prime. 

With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Pacific Prime can help you find a plan that meets both your requirement and budget.