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What it's actually like here
This bustling Southeast Asian capital is a surprisingly affordable hub for nomads, especially if you're mindful of your budget. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center can be found for around $450, dropping to $300 outside. Eating out is a steal – a cheap meal is just $3, and even a mid-range restaurant won't break the bank at $10. Groceries run about $220/month. You'll find a moderate English-speaking population and a decent nomad community with 10 coworking spaces. Internet is solid at 45 Mbps, though reliability is just okay. Visa ease is excellent. This city suits those seeking a truly low-cost experience with good food and a vibrant expat scene. However, be prepared for unhealthy air quality, which is a significant honest caveat to consider when planning your stay. Overall, it’s a big win for your wallet, but your lungs might need a break.
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Featured neighbourhoods
Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Phnom Penh.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Phnom Penh as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Phnom Penh averages around $450 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Cambodia sits at 36 (USA=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Phnom Penh safe for digital nomads?+
Phnom Penh scores 55/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most central neighbourhoods are fine with normal big-city awareness.
How fast is the internet in Phnom Penh?+
Headline average internet speed in Phnom Penh is around 45 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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