Your Expat Community in Cambodia

Living in Cambodia: Your Questions, Answered

If you're preparing to become an expat in Cambodia, you might be uncertain about what to expect. To help you out, we've collected answers to some common questions about life in Cambodia. For more personalized advice or to share your own tips, consider joining InterNations, a community of expats who enjoy helping one another.

1. Is it necessary to speak the local language?
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer. While English is increasingly spoken, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations, learning some basic Khmer can help you navigate daily life, build relationships with locals, and enhance your cultural experience.

2. What is the cost of living in Cambodia?
The cost of living in Cambodia is generally low compared to Western countries. Here are some average monthly expenses for reference:

• Rent: Depends on location and type of accommodation
• Utilities: 20–50 USD per month
• Groceries: 100–200 USD per month
• Transportation: 30–80 USD per month

3. What are the average rent prices in popular expat locations?

Phnom Penh:

• Single-room flat: 250–600 USD per month
• Three-bedroom flat: 800–1,500 USD per month

Siem Reap:

• Single-room flat: 150–400 USD per month
• Three-bedroom flat: 500–1,000 USD per month

Sihanoukville:

• Single-room flat: 200–500 USD per month
• Three-bedroom flat: 600–1,200 USD per month

4. How safe is Cambodia for expats?
Cambodia is generally safe for expats, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded places.

5. How is the healthcare system in Cambodia?
The healthcare system in Cambodia is not as advanced as in some Western countries. While there are public hospitals and clinics, many expats opt for private facilities or travel to nearby countries like Thailand for more serious medical issues. It's highly recommended to have comprehensive health insurance while living in Cambodia.

6. Can I drive in Cambodia with my foreign driver's license?
You can drive in Cambodia with a valid driver's license from your home country, along with an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, the driving conditions in Cambodia can be challenging, and many expats prefer to hire a driver or use other forms of transportation like tuk-tuks and taxis.

7. What is the education system like for expat children in Cambodia?
There are several international schools in Cambodia, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, that cater to expat children. These schools often follow international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and provide a high-quality education. However, tuition fees can be quite expensive, so it's important to factor this into your budget if you have children.

Begin Your New Life as an Expat in Cambodia

Cambodia's landscape is made up of low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains and the spectacular Gulf of Thailand coastline. Its exciting capital Phnom Penh features a magnificent Royal Palace, a historic Central Market and plenty of historical architecture, which harkens back to the country's captivating and majestic history. Leaving behind its bloody past, Cambodia's economy has been on the upswing, increasing by over 8% between 2000 and 2010. Its growth covers industries such as tourism, construction, garments, real estate, and agriculture. The cost of living in Cambodia is very cheap, in terms of food and accommodation, however, this is largely because Cambodia is still one of Asia's poorest countries, and is lacking in education and healthcare for local people, especially in the countryside. Many expats choose to live in the cities of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or Sihanoukville and make the move to Cambodia to work as English teachers or to work in the technology industries.

InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in China or Malaysia, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.

Your Social Network for Expatriates in Cambodia

Through its selective member approval process, InterNations offers a safe environment for expats to network, exchange tips and information, and meet up in real life. Our members can find useful information on topics such as visas, housing, and transportation in our guides for Cambodia as well as ask other expats questions directly in our forums. Another great way to settle into your new life abroad is to meet up with fellow expats in Cambodia. With a wide range of hobbies and interests covered, you're sure to find a group that takes your fancy! You may want to try exploring Phnom Penh with your fellow expats or meet up for dinner with your new expat friends in the city. Whichever you decide, by attending regular events with other expats you can ensure that you'll settle in more easily into your new adventure in Cambodia.