Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s thriving capital, offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods suited to a range of lifestyles, budgets, and preferences. Whether you’re an expat, a family, or a solo professional, choosing the best area to live comes down to what matters most—convenience, affordability, community, or culture. Here’s your guide to Phnom Penh’s top residential districts:

1. BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1) – The Expat Epicenter

  • Vibe: Cosmopolitan, convenient, established
  • Ideal for: Executives, expat families, professionals
  • Attractions: International schools, embassies, upscale restaurants, supermarkets
  • Housing: Modern condos, serviced apartments, luxury villas
  • Budget: $$$-$$$$ ($800–$3,000/month)
  • Pros: Walkable, Western amenities, vibrant dining scene
  • Cons: High rents, traffic congestion, less Cambodian authenticity

Why live here? If you seek the comfort of an international community, easy access to English-speaking services, and luxury living, BKK1 is unmatched.

2. Tonle Bassac – Urban Living with Riverside Charm

  • Vibe: Modern, high-rise, green
  • Ideal for: Professionals, families, urban lifestyle seekers
  • Attractions: Diamond Island, riverside parks, new malls, nightlife
  • Housing: Condos, serviced apartments, mixed-use developments
  • Budget: $$$ ($700–$2,000/month)
  • Pros: Modern infrastructure, parks, business district proximity
  • Cons: Construction noise, variable rent prices

Why live here? Tonle Bassac blends city energy with scenic spaces—great for those who want proximity to work, recreation, and international amenities.

3. Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) – Affordable & Bohemian

  • Vibe: Middle class, creative, authentic
  • Ideal for: Young professionals, creatives, budget-conscious expats
  • Attractions: Russian Market, cafés, street food, local shops
  • Housing: Apartments, small houses
  • Budget: $$ ($400–$1,200/month, 30–40% less than BKK1)
  • Pros: Affordable rent, bustling markets, local culture
  • Cons: Mixed property conditions, less upscale amenities

Why live here? If you want real Phnom Penh culture, tasty food, and creative community vibes without breaking the bank, TTP is the spot.

4. Riverside / Daun Penh – Historic Heart & Culture

  • Vibe: Scenic, lively, touristic
  • Ideal for: Singles, short-term visitors, culture lovers
  • Attractions: Royal Palace, museums, riverside promenade
  • Housing: Boutique hotels, condos, colonial buildings
  • Budget: $$-$$$ ($500–$1,500/month)
  • Pros: Water views, walkability, nightlife
  • Cons: Tourist crowds, noise, pickpockets

Why live here? Riverside is perfect for those who prize views and history, and want to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture.

5. Toul Kork – Family-Friendly & Spacious

  • Vibe: Suburban, green, peaceful
  • Ideal for: Families, long-term residents, value seekers
  • Attractions: Schools, playgrounds, malls, hospitals
  • Housing: Villas, gated communities, apartments
  • Budget: $$-$$$ ($600–$1,500/month)
  • Pros: Larger homes, quiet streets, good international schools
  • Cons: Farther from city center, less nightlife

Why live here? Toul Kork offers spacious living, safety, and excellent schools—ideal for families and those who want tranquility.

6. Chroy Changvar – Up-and-Coming Peninsula

  • Vibe: Modern, green, developing
  • Ideal for: Investors, new residents
  • Attractions: River views, parks, new developments
  • Housing: Condos, new mixed-use projects
  • Budget: $$-$$$
  • Pros: Peaceful environment, potential for property value growth
  • Cons: Less established community, ongoing construction

Conclusion & Top Tips

  • Best for Expats: BKK1, Tonle Bassac
  • Best for Families: Toul Kork, Chroy Changvar
  • Best for Budget: Toul Tom Poung, Riverside

When choosing where to live in Phnom Penh, consider proximity to work/schools, lifestyle needs, and budget. Visit neighborhoods to experience their vibe, check infrastructure (internet, security), and negotiate rent—especially for long-term stays. Each district boasts a unique blend of comfort, culture, and opportunity, making Phnom Penh one of Southeast Asia’s most adaptable capitals for newcomers and locals alike.