🇰🇭 Phnom Penh vs Siem Reap 🇰🇭
Which is the better remote-work base? Here's how Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Siem Reap, Cambodia compare on the things that matter to nomads.
| Metric | 🇰🇭 Phnom Penh | 🇰🇭 Siem Reap |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | $1,100 | $900 ✓ |
| Nomad score | 3.8/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Internet | 4/5 ✓ | 3.8/5 |
| Safety | 3.7/5 | 4/5 ✓ |
| Walkability | 3.4/5 | 3.8/5 ✓ |
| Fun & nightlife | 4.3/5 ✓ | 4.1/5 |
| Weather | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Air quality | 3.2/5 | 3.6/5 ✓ |
Phnom Penh vs Siem Reap: the verdict
If budget is your priority, Siem Reap wins at $900/month versus $1,100. On our overall nomad scorecard, Siem Reap takes the lead with 3.8/5. But the best base depends on what you value — Phnom Penh rates 4/5 for weather and 4.3/5 for nightlife, while Siem Reap rates 4/5 and 4.1/5. Dig into each city's full guide below for cost breakdowns, live internet speeds, visa rules and economic context.
Ready to go? Set up for Phnom Penh or Siem Reap
Whichever you choose, here's the remote-work kit worth sorting before you land:
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Frequently asked questions
Is Phnom Penh or Siem Reap cheaper for digital nomads?
Siem Reap is cheaper, at roughly $900/month versus $1,100/month for the other. Both figures are typical monthly nomad budgets covering rent, food and coworking.
Which has better internet, Phnom Penh or Siem Reap?
On our nomad scorecard, Phnom Penh rates 4/5 for internet and Siem Reap rates 3.8/5. Phnom Penh has the edge.
Which is safer, Phnom Penh or Siem Reap?
Phnom Penh scores 3.7/5 for safety and Siem Reap scores 4/5. Siem Reap rates higher for day-to-day safety.
Phnom Penh or Siem Reap — which is better overall for remote work?
Overall, Siem Reap edges it with a 3.8/5 nomad score, but the right choice depends on your priorities — cost, climate, community or visa access. Compare the full breakdown above.