Where Are Expats Actually Living in Phnom Penh in 2026?
Phnom Penh has changed significantly over the past few years. New condominiums, serviced apartments, cafés, international schools, shopping centres and lifestyle developments continue to reshape the city.
But if you are moving to Phnom Penh in 2026, one of the first questions you will probably ask is:
Where do expats actually live in Phnom Penh?
There is no single “best” neighbourhood. The right area depends on your lifestyle, workplace, family situation, budget and whether you prefer being in the middle of the city or somewhere quieter.
As a property consultant working with both local and international clients in Phnom Penh, these are some of the areas I see expats considering most often.
1. BKK1 – Central, International and Convenient
BKK1 remains one of the best-known neighbourhoods among foreigners moving to Phnom Penh.
Located in Chamkarmon district, the area has a strong international atmosphere with restaurants, cafés, supermarkets, gyms, hotels, offices and services all within a relatively compact neighbourhood.
You can find everything from smaller apartments and serviced residences to modern high-rise condominiums and luxury penthouses.
Why expats choose BKK1
BKK1 is particularly attractive if you want convenience.
You can easily find international restaurants, coffee shops, supermarkets, fitness centres and everyday services nearby. It is also well positioned for reaching other central parts of Phnom Penh.
The downside is that BKK1 is one of the city’s more premium locations, so newer or higher-quality properties can command higher rents.
Best for: Professionals, executives, couples, investors and people who want a central lifestyle.
2. BKK2 – Central Living With a More Local Feel
Just next to BKK1, BKK2 offers a slightly different atmosphere.
It is still very central, but parts of the neighbourhood feel more residential and local. There is a mixture of Cambodian houses, renovated apartments, newer residences, restaurants and small businesses.
For tenants who like the BKK area but do not necessarily need to live directly in BKK1, BKK2 can be worth exploring.
Why consider BKK2?
Its location gives residents relatively easy access to BKK1, the city centre and surrounding commercial areas.
It can also offer interesting value depending on the building and exact street.
Best for: Young professionals, couples and tenants looking for a central location with a more residential atmosphere.
3. BKK3 – An Area to Watch
BKK3 has gradually attracted more attention from both renters and property developers.
It is close to BKK1 and BKK2 but historically has had a more local residential character.
New condominium and apartment projects are changing parts of the neighbourhood, creating more choices for foreigners who want to remain close to central Phnom Penh without necessarily choosing BKK1.
For property buyers, BKK3 is also interesting because new development is continuing to reshape the area.
Best for: Long-term residents, professionals and buyers looking beyond Phnom Penh’s most established expat neighbourhoods.
4. Tonle Bassac – Modern City Living
Tonle Bassac is another major choice for expatriates.
The area is close to BKK1 while also providing convenient access to Koh Pich, central Phnom Penh and many of the city’s dining and entertainment areas.
Tonle Bassac offers a wide range of accommodation, from smaller apartments to serviced residences and premium condominiums.
It is particularly popular with people who enjoy having restaurants, cafés, bars and entertainment nearby.
Why expats like Tonle Bassac
The neighbourhood combines residential living with an active city lifestyle.
Depending on where you live within Tonle Bassac, you can be close to Bassac Lane, restaurants, international businesses, shopping and other central neighbourhoods.
Best for: Professionals, couples and people who enjoy an active urban lifestyle.
5. Toul Tom Poung (TTP) – Relaxed, Creative and Popular With Younger Expats
Toul Tom Poung, commonly called TTP or the Russian Market area, has developed its own expat community.
Compared with BKK1, the atmosphere can feel more relaxed and informal.
The neighbourhood is known for its mixture of local restaurants, international food, cafés, small businesses and residential streets.
There are also increasingly more modern apartments and condominium developments entering the area.
Why choose TTP?
TTP can be particularly appealing if you want a neighbourhood where international and Cambodian lifestyles mix naturally.
It is a good area for people who enjoy discovering independent cafés and restaurants rather than living exclusively around large commercial developments.
Best for: Younger professionals, digital workers, couples and people looking for a more relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere.
6. Toul Kork – More Space and a Residential Lifestyle
Toul Kork offers a very different lifestyle from BKK1 or Tonle Bassac.
Rather than focusing purely on city-centre living, Toul Kork has larger residential streets, villas, condominiums, schools, cafés and commercial developments.
It can be especially attractive for families who want more space.
There are also numerous condominium developments in Toul Kork, giving buyers and tenants a growing range of modern housing options.
Why families consider Toul Kork
Space is one of the biggest advantages.
Depending on the property, you may find larger apartments and family-oriented residences compared with some of the more densely developed central neighbourhoods.
Best for: Families, long-term residents and people who prefer a quieter residential environment.
7. Koh Pich – Modern High-Rise Living
Koh Pich, also known as Diamond Island, is one of Phnom Penh’s newer urban districts.
The area has wide roads, modern condominium towers, offices, restaurants, entertainment venues and newer developments.
For people who enjoy contemporary high-rise living, Koh Pich can be an attractive option.
It also provides convenient access to Tonle Bassac and other central areas of Phnom Penh.
Best for: Professionals, couples and residents who prefer newer developments and modern condominium living.
So, Which Area Is Best for You?
The answer depends on how you want to live.
If you want to be right in the centre of Phnom Penh’s international lifestyle, start with BKK1.
If you want to stay central but prefer something a little more residential, consider BKK2 or BKK3.
For restaurants, nightlife and modern city living, Tonle Bassac is worth exploring.
For a more relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere, look at Toul Tom Poung.
Families or residents looking for more space may prefer Toul Kork, while those attracted to newer high-rise developments can consider Koh Pich.
Most importantly, don’t choose an apartment based only on photos or the name of the neighbourhood.
In Phnom Penh, two properties only a few streets apart can offer very different experiences.
Consider the building management, street access, construction nearby, noise, parking, facilities, security and your daily commute before making your decision.
Looking for a Home in Phnom Penh?
At Charlotte Cambodia, we help local and international clients find apartments, condominiums and homes across Phnom Penh.
Whether you’re relocating to Cambodia, searching for a long-term rental or considering buying property, we can help you compare different neighbourhoods and properties based on your actual needs.
Contact Charlotte Cambodia to arrange a consultation or private property viewing.
Charlotte Cambodia – Real Estate & Local Living in Cambodia
