Phnom Penh, Cambodia🏛️ Capital City
📊 Scores
The capital city of Cambodia boasts a population of 457,000, but living in Phnom Penh is no easy feat. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the tropical climate subjects residents to sweltering temperatures year-round. Despite recent development, the city remains a hub of economic disparity, with over 100,000 people living in slums as of 2012. Phnom Penh may appeal to those drawn to its cultural richness and economic opportunities, but it's a challenging environment for the average expat.
🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
Grocery Basket
Eating Out
Utilities & Lifestyle
Housing
💰 Real Spend Reports
🛡️ Safety & Crime
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Phnom Penh presents moderate safety concerns for expats. Petty theft, bag snatching, and motorcycle robbery are common, particularly in crowded areas and after dark. Avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or ride-apps, and stay out of Boeng Kak and riverside areas at night. Scams targeting foreigners—inflated bills, gem schemes, tuk-tuk overcharges—are routine. Political demonstrations occasionally occur but rarely target expats. The city is manageable with street smarts and situational awareness, though it requires more caution than typical Western retirement destinations.
🏥 Healthcare
🌤️ Climate
Best Months
Climate Notes
Phnom Penh has a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid conditions year-round; the dry season (November to April) offers relief from heavy rains, while the wet season (May to October) brings intense downpours and higher humidity.
💻 Digital Nomad
Community Notes
| Name | Price/mo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Factory Phnom Penh | $150 | Located in the Mean Chey district, Factory Phnom Penh offers a creative and collaborative environment with a focus on startups and innovation. It features modern facilities, event spaces, and a vibrant community, making it ideal for digital nomads seeking networking opportunities. |
| Emerald Hub | $120 | Emerald Hub, in the BKK1 area, offers a professional and comfortable workspace with various membership options. It provides a quiet and focused environment, suitable for remote workers who need a reliable and well-equipped space. |
| Regus Phnom Penh | $180 | Regus has multiple locations in Phnom Penh, including one at Canadia Tower in the city center. It offers a professional and reliable coworking experience with various amenities and services, suitable for established remote workers. |
| Impact Hub Phnom Penh | $130 | Located in the Tonle Bassac area, Impact Hub Phnom Penh focuses on social impact and community. It provides a collaborative and inspiring workspace for entrepreneurs and remote workers interested in making a difference. |
🧳 Expat Life
Expat Life Notes
A rapidly developing capital with a very vibrant expat scene and high quality of life for a relatively low cost.
Pros
- ✓ Vibrant cafe and bar culture
- ✓ High quality expat housing
- ✓ Affordable cost of living
Cons
- ✗ High humidity
- ✗ Petty crime in tourist areas
- ✗ Dust and traffic
Could living/working in Phnom Penh cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $520/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.