Can foreigners buy property in Cambodia?

Foreigners can own condominium units above the ground floor under Cambodia's 2010 Foreign Ownership Law (strata title). However, foreigners cannot own land. Long-term leases of 50–99 years are the common alternative for houses and land. Some expats use Cambodian nominees or local companies to hold land title, but these strategies carry legal risk. For most expats, renting is the practical choice.

How much is rent in Phnom Penh?

In the prime expat neighborhoods (BKK1, Tonle Bassac), a modern furnished 1-bedroom apartment costs $400–$700/month. A 2-bedroom runs $700–$1,200. In Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) or Toul Kork, prices are 20–40% lower. Most apartments come furnished with AC, WiFi, and sometimes cleaning included. Expect to pay 1–2 months deposit upfront.

Is it safe to rent without a formal contract?

While informal rental agreements are common in Cambodia, it is strongly recommended to have a written lease in English and Khmer that specifies rent amount, deposit terms, notice period, and included utilities. Many landlords in expat areas are accustomed to this. Without a written agreement, you have limited legal recourse in disputes. Always get a receipt for cash payments.

Why is electricity so expensive in Cambodia?

Cambodia has some of the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia ($0.15–$0.25/kWh) due to reliance on imported power and diesel generators, though this is improving with hydro and solar investment. Air conditioning is the biggest driver of electricity bills. Expect $50–$150/month depending on AC usage. Some newer buildings have more efficient systems that reduce costs.

What are the best areas to live in Phnom Penh?

BKK1 is the default expat neighborhood — walkable, packed with cafes and restaurants, and socially vibrant. Tonle Bassac offers a more upscale, modern alternative with river views. Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) is great for budget-conscious expats wanting authenticity. Toul Kork is popular with families seeking newer buildings and more space at lower prices.

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🇰🇭 Cambodia

Housing

$400–$700/mo

1-BR Phnom Penh (BKK1)

Furnished, modern apartment

$150–$350/mo

1-BR Siem Reap

Central location

$100–$250/mo

1-BR Kampot

Studio or 1-bedroom

Condos only

Foreign Ownership

Above ground floor (strata title)

6–12 months

Typical Lease

Shorter terms negotiable

1–2 months

Deposit

Refundable at end of lease

Last updated: March 2026

Overview🏙️Phnom Penh 🏛️Siem Reap 🌿Kampot

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Overview

Housing in Cambodia is remarkably affordable, with options ranging from modern serviced apartments in Phnom Penh's BKK1 to charming colonial-era houses in Kampot. Foreigners cannot own land in Cambodia, but can own condos above the ground floor (strata title) and sign long-term leases. Most expats rent, and the market is renter-friendly with short-term leases, furnished apartments, and prices quoted in USD. Expect to pay $400–$700/month for a modern 1-bedroom in Phnom Penh's prime areas, $150–$350 in Siem Reap, and as low as $100–$250 in Kampot.

Key Takeaways

Most apartments come fully furnished with air conditioning, WiFi, and sometimes weekly cleaning included
Facebook groups are the #1 housing resource: 'Phnom Penh Rentals', 'Siem Reap Housing', 'Kampot Expats'
Foreigners can own condos above the ground floor under the 2010 Foreign Ownership Law (strata title)
Electricity: $0.15–$0.25/kWh — air conditioning drives the biggest cost; expect $50–$150/month with AC use

Renting an Apartment or House

Renting is the standard for expats in Cambodia. The market is informal, renter-friendly, and almost exclusively conducted in USD.

Most apartments come fully furnished with air conditioning, WiFi, and sometimes weekly cleaning included
Standard lease is 6–12 months; shorter terms (monthly) are available at a premium of 10–20%
Deposits are typically 1–2 months rent, payable in advance in USD cash
Phnom Penh BKK1/Tonle Bassac: $400–$700 for a modern 1-BR; $700–$1,200 for a 2-BR
Siem Reap: $150–$350 for a 1-BR in central areas; $250–$500 for a house with garden
Kampot: $100–$250 for a 1-BR or studio; $200–$400 for a riverside house

How to Find Housing

Cambodia's rental market is informal and best navigated on the ground. Online listings are helpful but viewings in person are essential.

Facebook groups are the #1 housing resource: 'Phnom Penh Rentals', 'Siem Reap Housing', 'Kampot Expats'
Realestate.com.kh and Khmer24.com list apartments and houses with photos and prices
Walk around your target neighborhood and look for 'For Rent' signs — many properties are not listed online
Local agents charge 50% of one month's rent as commission; some landlords deal directly without agents
Visit in person before committing — photos can be misleading and neighborhood feel matters enormously
Negotiate: listed prices are usually 10–20% above what landlords will accept, especially for longer leases

Property Ownership for Foreigners

Foreigners face restrictions on property ownership in Cambodia but have several legal pathways to own or control real estate.

Foreigners can own condos above the ground floor under the 2010 Foreign Ownership Law (strata title)
Foreign ownership in any condominium building is capped at 70% of total units
Land cannot be owned by foreigners — but long-term leases of 50–99 years are legally binding and common
Some expats use a Cambodian nominee (trusted local) to hold land title — this carries risk and is legally gray
Setting up a Cambodian company (majority Cambodian-owned) to hold land is another common strategy
For most expats, renting is the practical and recommended approach — ownership complexity is rarely worth it

Utilities & Running Costs

Utility costs in Cambodia can surprise newcomers. While rent is low, electricity is relatively expensive by Southeast Asian standards.

Electricity: $0.15–$0.25/kWh — air conditioning drives the biggest cost; expect $50–$150/month with AC use
Water: $5–$15/month for typical apartment use; included in some serviced apartments
Internet (fiber): $20–$40/month for 30–100 Mbps from providers like EZECOM, SINET, or Smart
Many serviced apartments include utilities and internet in the rent — clarify before signing
Gas for cooking: $3–$5 per canister lasting 1–2 months; many apartments have electric stovetops
Waste collection: $3–$5/month or included in apartment fees

FAQs