Siem Reap, Cambodia🏛️ Capital City
📊 Scores
With a population of 147,866, Siem Reap is no quaint village - it's a bustling tourist hub with all the headaches that come with it. The city's French-colonial and Chinese-style architecture are a draw, but navigating the bureaucracy is a persistent hassle. And while the nearby Angkor Wat temples are undeniably impressive, the oppressive tropical climate can make exploring them a sweaty slog. Still, Siem Reap's vibrant dining and nightlife scene, not to mention its convenient location near the Tonle Sap lake, make it an appealing choice for travelers seeking an exotic Southeast Asian adventure.
🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
Grocery Basket
Eating Out
Utilities & Lifestyle
Housing
💰 Real Spend Reports
🛡️ Safety & Crime
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Siem Reap is relatively safe for expats compared to many Southeast Asian cities, with petty theft and scams being primary concerns rather than violent crime. Avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or ride-apps, and be cautious of gem/silk shop scams and inflated bar tabs in tourist areas. The city center and expat neighborhoods (Slor Kram, Wat Bo) are generally secure; exercise more caution in outlying areas after dark. Political stability is solid, and police are accustomed to expat residents. Overall, it's a manageable destination for retirees and remote workers willing to exercise standard urban precautions.
🏥 Healthcare
🌤️ Climate
Best Months
Climate Notes
Siem Reap has a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid conditions year-round; the dry season (November to March) offers cooler temperatures and lower humidity, while the wet season (May to October) brings intense rainfall and higher heat.
💻 Digital Nomad
Community Notes
| Name | Price/mo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Working Village | $120 | Located near Wat Bo area, The Working Village offers a relaxed atmosphere with a pool, garden, and cafe, making it ideal for digital nomads seeking a community vibe. They have reliable internet and offer various membership options. |
| Angkor Hub | $99 | Situated in the heart of Siem Reap, Angkor Hub provides a professional workspace with fast internet, meeting rooms, and a supportive community. It's a great option for those who want to be close to restaurants and shops. |
| Garage Society Siem Reap | $150 | Garage Society offers a modern and stylish coworking space with a focus on community and collaboration. Located centrally, it provides a range of amenities including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. |
🧳 Expat Life
Expat Life Notes
Siem Reap is Cambodia's tourism capital, gateway to Angkor Wat. It has a well-established expat community of hospitality workers, NGO staff, and digital nomads. English is widely used in the tourist zone.
Pros
- ✓ Thriving expat scene
- ✓ Affordable
- ✓ World-class temples nearby
Cons
- ✗ Seasonal tourism economy
- ✗ Political environment concerns
- ✗ Infrastructure gaps outside town
Could living/working in Siem Reap cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $270/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.