Best Areas to Live in Phnom Penh for Expats (2026)
A Local Property Consultant’s Guide to Choosing the Right Neighborhood
Moving to Phnom Penh is exciting, but choosing the right neighborhood can make a huge difference to your lifestyle, daily commute, and long-term happiness.
As a property consultant based in Phnom Penh, one of the most common questions I receive is:
“Which area is best for expats to live in?”
The answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, family situation, and whether you’re looking for convenience, community, or investment potential.
Here are the areas I most frequently recommend to expats in 2026.
1. Boeung Keng Kang 1 (BKK1) – Best for Convenience and Lifestyle
BKK1 remains one of Phnom Penh’s most sought-after neighborhoods for expatriates.
Why expats love BKK1:
- International restaurants and cafés
- Walkable streets
- Modern condominiums
- Close to embassies and offices
- Strong rental demand
The area offers a vibrant mix of professionals, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and long-term residents.
Best for:
- Professionals
- First-time expats
- Digital entrepreneurs
- Investors seeking rental demand
Things to consider:
- Higher rental prices
- Limited parking in some buildings
- Busy during peak hours
2. Tonle Bassac – Best for Modern City Living
Tonle Bassac has transformed into one of the city’s most dynamic residential districts.
The area combines:
- Luxury condominiums
- Shopping centers
- Restaurants
- Easy access to central Phnom Penh
Many expats enjoy the convenience of living near business districts while maintaining access to lifestyle amenities.
Best for:
- Young professionals
- Condo buyers
- Expats working in the city center
3. Koh Pich (Diamond Island) – Best for Waterfront Living
Koh Pich offers a different experience from the traditional city center.
Residents appreciate:
- Wide roads
- Modern infrastructure
- Riverside views
- Less congestion
- Growing number of residential developments
For buyers looking for newer projects and a modern urban environment, Koh Pich remains an attractive choice.
Best for:
- Families
- Condo owners
- Long-term residents
- Lifestyle-focused buyers
4. Tuol Tom Poung (Russian Market) – Best for Community and Character
Often called “TTP” by locals and expats, this neighborhood offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights include:
- Independent cafés
- Boutique shops
- International restaurants
- Strong expat community
Compared with BKK1, TTP often feels more residential and neighborhood-oriented.
Best for:
- Creative professionals
- Young families
- Long-term expats
5. Borey Peng Huoth and Gated Communities – Best for Families
For families seeking more space, many choose landed properties within established gated communities.
Advantages include:
- Larger homes
- Green spaces
- Community facilities
- Better privacy
- Family-friendly environment
These communities are particularly attractive for residents planning to stay in Cambodia for several years.
Best for:
- Families with children
- Homeowners
- Long-term residents
Which Area Is Right for You?
Choose BKK1 if: You want convenience, walkability, and easy access to everything.
Choose Tonle Bassac if: You prefer modern city living and newer developments.
Choose Koh Pich if: You enjoy wide-open spaces, waterfront views, and newer infrastructure.
Choose TTP if: You value community, cafés, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Choose a Borey Community if: You need more space, privacy, and a family-oriented environment.
My Advice as a Property Consultant
One mistake many expats make is choosing a property before understanding the neighborhood.
Before signing a lease or purchasing a property, I recommend visiting the area:
- Early morning
- Midday
- Evening
- Weekend
A neighborhood can feel very different depending on the time of day.
The best property is not always the newest building or the lowest price. The best property is the one that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals.
About the Author
Charlotte – Property Consultant in Phnom Penh
I help local and international buyers navigate Cambodia’s real estate market, with a focus on BKK1, prime condominiums, and lifestyle-focused property selection.
If you’re considering a move to Phnom Penh or looking for investment opportunities, feel free to contact me for personalized advice.