Choosing where to stay in Cambodia depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how long you plan to remain in the country. Cambodia offers everything from modern city apartments to quiet riverside towns and island bungalows—all at prices far lower than most of Southeast Asia.
This guide breaks down the best cities, neighborhoods, and areas to stay, with clear recommendations for short‑term travelers, digital nomads, and long‑stay expats.
Best Cities to Stay in Cambodia (Overview)
- Phnom Penh – Best for amenities, healthcare, long‑term living
- Siem Reap – Best overall value & expat lifestyle
- Kampot – Quiet riverside living & retirees
- Kep – Coastal calm, very slow pace
- Sihanoukville – Mixed reputation, select areas only
- Cambodia’s Islands – Short stays & retreats
Phnom Penh: Best for Long‑Term Living & Amenities
Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital and most developed city. It offers the best healthcare, international schools, coworking spaces, and modern apartments.
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1) – Most Popular Expat Area
Best for: Digital nomads, professionals, long‑stay expats
- Walkable, central location
- Cafes, restaurants, gyms, coworking spaces
- Modern condos & serviced apartments
Rent: $500–$1,000+
BKK2 & BKK3 – More Affordable Alternatives
Best for: Budget‑conscious expats
- Similar location to BKK1
- Fewer high‑end buildings
- Lower rent, quieter streets
Rent: $350–$700
Riverside (Sisowath Quay)
Best for: Short‑term stays, nightlife, views
- Tourist‑friendly
- Hotels & serviced apartments
- Noisy at night
Rent: $400–$900
Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market)
Best for: Long‑stay expats, creatives
- Local vibe with expat scene
- Markets, cafes, boutique apartments
- Less polished but lively
Rent: $300–$700
Siem Reap: Best Value & Lifestyle Balance
Siem Reap combines affordability with good infrastructure and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s one of the most popular long‑stay bases in Cambodia.
Wat Bo Area – Top Expat Neighborhood
Best for: Digital nomads, long‑stay expats
- Quiet but central
- Cafes, coworking spaces
- Modern apartments & houses
Rent: $300–$600
Taphul Village Area
Best for: Walkability & convenience
- Close to supermarkets
- Cafes and gyms
- Mix of hotels & apartments
Rent: $250–$500
Outside City Center (Sala Kamreuk, Svay Dangkum)
Best for: Budget renters, house rentals
- More space
- Less walkable
- Motorbike helpful
Rent: $200–$450
Kampot: Quiet Riverside Living
Kampot is known for its laid‑back pace and scenic river views.
Best for: Retirees, writers, creatives, slow travelers
Kampot Town Center
- Cafes, markets, basic amenities
- Walking distance to river
Rent: $250–$500
Riverside & Countryside Areas
- Peaceful settings
- Larger houses
- Limited nightlife
Rent: $200–$450
Kep: Small Coastal Town
Kep is quieter than Kampot and appeals to those wanting minimal crowds.
Best for: Retirees, couples
Kampot Town Center
- Ocean views
- Limited restaurants & services
- Very slow lifestyle
Rent: $300–$600
Sihanoukville: Choose Carefully
Sihanoukville has undergone heavy development and is not for everyone.
Recommended areas only:
- Otres Beach
- Select condo developments
Avoid: Central city areas unless short‑term
Rent: $400–$800 (varies widely)
Cambodia’s Islands: Short‑Term & Retreat Living
Popular islands:
- Koh Rong
- Koh Rong Samloem
Best for: Short stays, digital detox, retreats
- Limited internet & healthcare
- Higher costs
- Seasonal living
Short‑Term vs Long‑Term Rentals
Short‑Term (Days to Weeks)
- Hotels & guesthouses
- Serviced apartments
- Online booking platforms
Long‑Term (Months+)
- Facebook groups
- Local agents
- Word of mouth
Long‑term rentals offer significant savings.
What Type of Accommodation Is Best?
- Digital nomads: Siem Reap (Wat Bo), Phnom Penh (BKK1)
- Retirees: Kampot, Kep, Siem Reap outskirts
- Budget travelers: Siem Reap, Kampot
- Luxury seekers: Phnom Penh condos
Tips for Finding the Right Place
- Book short‑term first, then search locally
- Inspect units before committing
- Ask about electricity rates
- Confirm Wi‑Fi speed
- Negotiate long‑term rent
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Cambodia?
For most travelers:
- Best overall: Siem Reap
- Best for long‑term comfort: Phnom Penh (BKK areas)
- Best quiet lifestyle: Kampot
Cambodia offers flexible, affordable housing—making it easy to find a place that fits your lifestyle.
What to Read Next
This guide is part of the Cambodia Travel Hub on TravelAsiaHQ, helping you choose the right base in Southeast Asia.