Phnom Penh's Best Neighborhoods: How to Find Your Perfect Fit in 2025
Let's be honest. Scrolling through apartment listings is pointless until you answer the most critical question: "Which neighborhood is actually *for me*?" Choosing where to live in Phnom Penh will define your social life, your daily commute, and your overall happiness more than anything else. It’s the difference between feeling instantly at home and feeling constantly out of place.
Forget generic lists. This is an opinionated, insider's guide designed to help you decode the city's personality and find the one corner of it that you can call your own. We'll go beyond rental prices and look at the real lifestyle, the community, and the unwritten rules of Phnom Penh's most popular expat areas.
The 3-Step 'Vibe Check': Find Your Phnom Penh Tribe
Before you even look at a map, figure out which of these expat archetypes sounds most like you. This will narrow your search instantly.
- 1. Are you "The Connector"? You thrive on convenience and community. You want high-quality gyms, international groceries, and networking events at your doorstep. You're willing to pay a premium to minimize friction in your daily life. Your match is likely BKK1 or Tonle Bassac.
- 2. Are you "The Creative"? You're looking for authenticity, energy, and value. You love discovering hidden cafes, enjoy a vibrant street life, and want to be part of a dynamic, bohemian community. You don't mind a bit of grit if it comes with character. You belong in the Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung).
- 3. Are you "The Settler"? You're prioritizing space, quiet, and a more residential feel. Whether you have a family or just crave peace after 6 PM, you want larger apartments, wider streets, and a clear separation from the city's nightlife. Start your search in BKK2, BKK3, or Toul Kork.
Phnom Penh Neighborhoods: The Insider's Comparison
Here’s the cheat sheet. We've summarized the key details, including the pros and cons that other guides won't tell you.
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Pros | Cons | Rent (1-Bed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BKK1 | Upscale & International | Ultimate convenience, very walkable, best amenities | Highest rent, can feel sterile (the "expat bubble") | $480 - $600+ |
| Russian Market | Trendy & Bohemian | Best value, amazing food scene, strong community | Noisy, can be chaotic, prone to flooding on some streets | $270 - $400 |
| Tonle Bassac | Modern & Polished | AEON Mall, new condos, close to everything | Lacks character, heavy traffic, less walkable | $450 - $550 |
| BKK2 / BKK3 | Quiet & Residential | Peaceful, more local feel, good value | Fewer restaurants/cafes, a bit sleepy at night | $350 - $500 |
Deep Dive: Explore Phnom Penh's Top Expat Areas
Ready to explore? Each neighborhood offers a unique lifestyle. Click through for our detailed guides covering the best cafes, gyms, apartments, and insider tips for each area.
BKK1 Guide
The city's polished, international hub. Explore the best of expat living.
Explore BKK1 →
Russian Market Guide
Discover the creative heart of Phnom Penh, perfect for foodies and nomads.
Explore Russian Market →
Living in Siem Reap
Considering a more relaxed pace? See our guide to life in Siem Reap.
Explore Siem Reap →Common Mistakes When Choosing a Neighborhood
We see new expats make the same errors time and again. Learn from them to save yourself a headache.
❌ Mistake 1: Renting Sight-Unseen. Photos lie. A quiet street in a picture can be a 24/7 construction site in reality. Never, ever sign a lease for a place you haven't visited at different times of day.
✅ The Fix: Book an Airbnb or short-term rental for your first 2-4 weeks. Use this time as a base to explore different neighborhoods in person. This is the single best investment you can make in your move.
❌ Mistake 2: Underestimating the Commute. A 3km distance on Google Maps might look short, but it can be a 45-minute ordeal in peak Phnom Penh traffic. Don't choose a cheap apartment that costs you hours of your life every day.
✅ The Fix: Do a "Tuk-Tuk Test." Before you commit, take a tuk-tuk from your potential new apartment to your work or favorite gym during rush hour (8 AM and 5 PM). It might be the most revealing $3 you'll ever spend.
Your Questions, Answered (The Real Stuff)
Here are the questions everyone asks, answered with the honesty you need.
It depends entirely on your neighborhood. BKK1 is highly walkable, with everything you need within a 15-minute radius. The Russian Market is also quite walkable within its core. Outside of these areas, you'll be heavily reliant on tuk-tuks. Sidewalks can be uneven or used for parking, so "walkable" here is different from in a Western city.
While the city is generally safe, areas with high expat density like BKK1 and Tonle Bassac have more security guards, better street lighting, and a greater community presence, which new arrivals often find reassuring. The most important factor is choosing an apartment in a well-lit building with 24/7 security, which is common in these areas.
Always use a ride-hailing app like Grab or PassApp. It eliminates haggling and the risk of being overcharged. A typical ride within the central districts (e.g., from BKK1 to Riverside) costs between $1.50 and $3.00. Never get into a street-side tuk-tuk without agreeing on the price beforehand or using an app.
Power cuts are a reality in Phnom Penh, though they are becoming less frequent. BKK1, being the commercial and diplomatic heart, generally has the most stable infrastructure. For internet, your provider matters more than the neighborhood. We recommend checking out our guide to the best internet providers to ensure you get a reliable connection.
Discover Your Perfect Neighborhood
From the bustling streets of BKK1 to the relaxed riverside vibe of Kampot, find the community that matches your budget and lifestyle.
Best Neighborhoods in Cambodia for Expats: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap & More
Choosing where to live is the single most important decision you'll make when moving to Cambodia. It defines your daily routine, your social circle, and your overall experience. With over 70% of the country's 200,000+ expats concentrated in Phnom Penh, the options can feel overwhelming. Are you looking for the family-friendly vibe of BKK2, the bustling energy of Daun Penh, or the relaxed, creative atmosphere of Siem Reap?
Most expats spend weeks trying to piece together scattered information from Facebook groups and blogs, often leading to stressful and costly mistakes. This guide is your central hub for understanding the best neighborhoods across Cambodia. We provide insider perspectives, data-driven insights, and real community feedback to help you find the perfect place to call home.
What You'll Find in This Neighborhoods Guide
- Phnom Penh Neighborhoods: The Expat Hub – An overview of the capital's most popular areas.
- Siem Reap: Lifestyle & Community – A look at the gateway to Angkor Wat.
- The Coast: Kampot, Kep & Sihanoukville – For those seeking a seaside lifestyle.
- At a Glance: Neighborhood Comparison – A quick-reference table to compare your options.
- Community Voices: Why We Chose Our Neighborhood – Real stories from expats on the ground.
- Next Steps & Finding Your Home – How to turn this research into action.
Why Your Neighborhood Choice Matters
In Cambodia, your neighborhood is more than just an address—it's your lifestyle. Unlike in many Western cities where you might travel across town for amenities, your daily life here will largely revolve around your immediate area. The right choice means easy access to your favorite cafe, a short walk to your child's school, and a community of like-minded people. The wrong choice can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration with traffic and logistics.
MoveKH was created to solve this information gap. We've consolidated the scattered knowledge from countless expat experiences into clear, authoritative guides. This hub page is your starting point. From here, you can dive deep into the specific neighborhoods that catch your eye.
Phnom Penh Neighborhoods: The Expat Epicenter
As the economic and social heart of Cambodia, Phnom Penh offers the widest variety of lifestyles. From upscale, modern districts to charming areas with a local feel, there's a place for every budget and preference. Here are the top neighborhoods expats call home.
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
The undisputed center of expat life. BKK1 is known for its international restaurants, upscale coffee shops, embassies, and modern condo buildings. It's the most convenient and "Westernized" neighborhood, but also the most expensive. Explore the BKK1 Guide →
BKK2 & BKK3
Located just south of BKK1, these areas offer a slightly more residential and affordable alternative while still being very central. BKK2 is particularly popular with families for its quieter streets and proximity to international schools, while BKK3 is a hub for nightlife and younger expats. Explore the BKK2 Guide →
Daun Penh
The historic and administrative heart of the city, Daun Penh is home to the Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, and the bustling Riverside area. It offers a mix of colonial architecture and modern developments, attracting tourists and expats who love to be in the center of the action. Explore the Daun Penh Guide →
Tonle Bassac
Situated along the Bassac River, this upscale area is known for its wide boulevards, luxury developments like AEON Mall 1, and gated communities (boreys). It's a favorite among corporate expats and families looking for modern amenities and space. Explore the Tonle Bassac Guide →
Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung)
A vibrant, trendy neighborhood that has become a hotspot for digital nomads, artists, and foodies. It offers a fantastic balance of local character and expat-friendly cafes, bars, and boutiques at a more affordable price point than BKK1. Explore the Russian Market Guide →
Toul Kork
An up-and-coming district in the north of the city. Traditionally a residential area for affluent Cambodians, Toul Kork is now attracting expats with its large villas, new cafes, and less congested feel. It's great for those who want more space for their money. Explore the Toul Kork Guide →
Siem Reap: A Laid-Back Lifestyle Hub
Famous as the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex, Siem Reap has a distinct identity. It’s a smaller, more relaxed city with a lower cost of living than Phnom Penh and a tight-knit expat community. It's especially popular with digital nomads, retirees, and those in the hospitality industry who appreciate its creative, community-focused vibe. Explore the Siem Reap Expat Guide →
Coastal & Secondary Cities: Kampot, Kep & Beyond
For expats looking to escape the city bustle, Cambodia's southern coast and secondary cities offer incredible lifestyle options.
- Kampot: A charming riverside town known for its colonial architecture and incredibly relaxed atmosphere. It's a magnet for creatives, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life. Explore the Kampot Guide →
- Kep: A quiet seaside town famous for its crab market. The expat community is small, making it ideal for those who want a peaceful, off-the-grid experience. Explore the Kep Guide →
- Battambang: Cambodia's second-largest city offers a glimpse into a more authentic, colonial-era Cambodia. It has a growing arts scene and a small but welcoming expat community. Explore the Battambang Guide →
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Best For | Average Rent (1-Bed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BKK1 | Upscale, Convenient, International | Corporate Expats, Diplomats | $480 - $600+ |
| BKK2 / BKK3 | Residential, Central, Family-Friendly | Families, Young Professionals | $350 - $500 |
| Russian Market | Trendy, Bohemian, Foodie Hub | Digital Nomads, Creatives | $270 - $400 |
| Tonle Bassac | Modern, Polished, Amenity-Rich | Expat Families seeking comfort | $450 - $550 |
| Daun Penh / Riverside | Historic, Bustling, Tourist-Friendly | Those who love being central | $300 - $450 |
Community Voices: Why We Chose Our Neighborhood
"We chose BKK2 after visiting several international schools for our two kids. The ability to walk them to school in the morning was a game-changer. It's quiet, safe, and we have a fantastic community of other expat parents right on our street. We sacrificed a bit of space compared to Toul Kork, but the convenience is priceless."
"As a freelance developer, my priorities were fast internet, great cafes, and a creative atmosphere. Russian Market was a no-brainer. I can walk to three different coworking spots, the food scene is incredible, and my rent for a modern one-bedroom is under $350. I feel connected to both the local and expat scenes here."
Finding Your Home in Cambodia
You now have a high-level overview of the best places for expats to live in Cambodia. The key to a successful move is to match your personal lifestyle, budget, and priorities with the right location.
Your Next Steps:
- Dive Deeper: Click on the individual neighborhood guides that interest you most to get detailed information on amenities, pros and cons, and community life.
- View Listings: Once you've narrowed down your choices, browse current listings to see what's available in your price range in our Rentals section.
- Plan Your Move: Feeling ready? Our complete Moving to Cambodia Guide covers every step of the process, from visas to packing.
Have questions? Join the discussion in our community forums and connect with expats who have already made the move. Welcome to Cambodia!
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
Phnom Penh's upscale hub for expats, dining, and modern living.
Explore Neighborhood →
Phnom Penh Neighborhoods
Discover the perfect area that matches your lifestyle and budget.
View All Guides →
Explore Kampot
Your guide to the riverside town's relaxed vibe and growing expat scene.
Discover Kampot →Reliable TukTuk Drivers
Authentic Khmer Cuisine
Rich Cultural Heritage
Beautiful Temple Tours
Vibrant Phnom Penh Markets
Reliable TukTuk Drivers
Authentic Khmer Cuisine
Rich Cultural Heritage
Beautiful Temple Tours
Vibrant Phnom Penh Markets
Visualize rental yields across Phnom Penh. Track, analyze, and identify high-growth investment areas.
How BKK1 became the #1 searched district. A look at the trends, amenities, and pricing that drove demand.
Real-time search volume for rental properties. Optimize your listings based on user interest and seasonality.
In-depth articles From visa guides to the best local eats in each neighborhood.
Find your vibe Filter properties by lifestyle: family-friendly, nightlife, or quiet & calm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our services, platform, and community.
MoveKH is Cambodia's insider guide for expats and lifestyle seekers. We combine authoritative lifestyle content with curated directories for property and services to help you live your best life in the Kingdom.
While we feature curated properties, our primary focus is on the lifestyle around them. We are a content-first platform, helping you discover neighborhoods, communities, and services first, and then find a place to live that matches your lifestyle.
Not at all! Our guides and content are valuable for anyone looking to explore the best of Cambodia, including local families, repatriating Cambodians, and tourists seeking authentic, high-quality experiences.
We welcome partnerships with high-quality businesses in real estate, hospitality, and lifestyle services. Please visit our "Contact Us" page to learn more about our lead generation, sponsorship, and advertising opportunities.
Riverside Pool Villa
Spacious 3-bedroom villa with a private pool and stunning river views.
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BKK1 Urban Loft
Modern 1-bedroom loft in the heart of the city's most vibrant district.
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Toul Kork Family Home
Beautiful 5-bedroom home with a garden, perfect for a growing family.
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Serviced Studio Flat
A fully-furnished studio ideal for solo professionals, with gym and pool access.
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