Digital Nomad Cambodia: A Guide

If you’re dreaming of working remotely while soaking in rich culture, warm weather, and a low cost of living, Cambodia might just be your next digital nomad paradise. Tucked between Thailand and Vietnam, this Southeast Asian gem offers more than just ancient temples and affordable street food — it’s fast becoming a hub for remote workers looking to live well on a budget.

From the bustling energy of Phnom Penh to the peaceful riverside charm of Kampot, Cambodia offers a variety of experiences that suit different digital nomad lifestyles. With improving internet connectivity, easy visa options, and a welcoming expat community, it’s no surprise that more remote workers are adding Cambodia to their Southeast Asia work-life circuit.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best cities for digital nomads Cambodia, how much it really costs to live there, the visa options available, the coworking scene, and what to expect from day-to-day life. Whether you’re planning a short stay or considering long-term living, Cambodia might be the underrated destination you’ve been looking for.

Why Choose Cambodia as a Digital Nomad Destination?

Digital Nomad Cambodia is often overshadowed by its neighbors like Thailand and Vietnam, but it’s quickly gaining popularity among digital nomads and for good reason. One of the biggest draws is the low cost of living. Whether you’re renting a modern apartment in Phnom Penh or enjoying slow mornings by the riverside in Kampot, your money goes a long way here.

Beyond affordability, Cambodia offers a laid-back lifestyle. Locals are friendly, the pace of life is slower, and there’s an overall sense of calm that appeals to creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs seeking a balanced lifestyle. It’s also rich in culture and history, with ancient wonders like Angkor Wat, traditional festivals, and flavorful Khmer cuisine adding depth to your everyday routine.

Another big plus is visa flexibility. Compared to many other countries in Asia, Cambodia makes it relatively easy to stay longer through business visas and renewals, with minimal bureaucracy.

While Cambodia may not yet have the same level of digital infrastructure as Singapore or Bali, it’s improving steadily, especially in major cities and nomad hotspots. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience with room to grow professionally and personally, Cambodia presents an exciting and budget-friendly option for digital nomad life.

Internet & Connectivity in Cambodia

Digital Nomad Cambodia, reliable internet is non-negotiable, and Cambodia delivers surprisingly well in this department, especially in urban areas. Major cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Kampot offer fast and stable internet connections, with speeds suitable for video calls, uploading large files, and streaming.

Most apartments, guesthouses, and coworking spaces come equipped with Wi-Fi. Many cafes in nomad-friendly neighborhoods offer free internet with a purchase, making them ideal for casual remote work sessions.

For even more flexibility, mobile internet is incredibly affordable and fast. Leading providers like Smart, Metfone, and Cellcard offer cheap SIM cards with generous 4G data packages, often for as little as $5–$10 per month. Tethering or using a portable hotspot is common among nomads on the move.

However, if you’re planning to travel to more remote areas, be prepared for occasional outages or weaker signals. In such cases, having a backup mobile data plan or offline work tasks can be a lifesaver.

Overall, while Cambodia’s internet may not be world-class everywhere, it’s more than sufficient for most digital nomads, especially those based in key cities.

Best Cities for Digital Nomad Cambodia

Cambodia offers a range of destinations to suit different digital nomad lifestyles — from busy capitals to quiet riverside towns. Here are the best cities for working remotely in comfort and style:

Phnom Penh: The Capital of Convenience

As Cambodia’s bustling capital, Phnom Penh is the most developed city for digital nomads. You’ll find a good selection of coworking spaces, such as Workspace 1 and The Desk, along with a growing number of cafes offering stable Wi-Fi and air-conditioned comfort.

The city is lively, with plenty of restaurants, rooftop bars, gyms, and shopping malls. BKK1 and Toul Tom Poung are popular neighborhoods among expats, offering a good balance of affordability and comfort. Monthly apartment rentals can range from $250–$600, depending on your lifestyle.

Phnom Penh is perfect for nomads who want an urban lifestyle, solid infrastructure, and networking opportunities.

Siem Reap: Culture Meets Community

Home to the world-famous Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is more than just a tourist town — it’s a haven for digital nomads who value culture and a slower pace of life.

There are several coworking cafes and budget-friendly guesthouses that cater to remote workers. While the nightlife is quieter than Phnom Penh, the community vibe is strong, and weekend temple-hopping or yoga retreats are just a tuk-tuk ride away.

It’s also one of the most affordable places to live, with quality meals for under $5 and accommodation options starting at $150/month.

Kampot: Relaxed Riverside Living

If peace and nature are at the top of your wishlist, Kampot delivers. This sleepy riverside town is known for its laid-back lifestyle, French colonial architecture, and stunning views of the nearby Bokor Mountains.

Kampot is popular among long-term expats and nomads who prefer fewer crowds. It has a growing selection of Wi-Fi-friendly cafes, cozy guesthouses, and even riverside villas at budget prices. Life here is simple and tranquil, ideal for writers, developers, and creatives who thrive in quiet environments.

Sihanoukville: A Cautionary Tale

Once a coastal gem, Sihanoukville has seen rapid and often criticized development, mainly from Chinese investment. Casinos, high-rise buildings, and ongoing construction have changed the town’s vibe considerably.

While it still offers beach access and proximity to islands like Koh Rong, the digital nomad scene has largely moved on. Connectivity and infrastructure can be hit or miss, and the noise and dust may not appeal to remote workers.

If you’re set on beach life, you might prefer visiting islands near Sihanoukville for short getaways instead of basing yourself here.

Cost of Living for Digital Nomads in Cambodia

One of Cambodia’s biggest attractions for digital nomads is its incredibly low cost of living. Whether you’re a budget traveler or seeking a comfortable lifestyle, Cambodia offers excellent value for your money.

Accommodation

In major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, a one-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 per month, depending on the amenities. Long-term rentals are cheaper than short stays, and utilities (electricity, water, internet) may add around $50–$100 monthly.

Food & Dining

Street food is delicious and affordable — you can enjoy a full meal for $1.50 to $3. Western-style restaurants or cafés charge $4 to $10 per meal. Groceries are also cheap, especially if you shop at local markets.

Transportation

Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are everywhere, and apps like PassApp or Grab make it easy to get around. A short ride usually costs $1–$3. Renting a motorbike costs around $60–$90 per month.

Coworking Spaces

Monthly coworking memberships range from $50 to $150, depending on the city and facilities. Alternatively, many cafés offer free Wi-Fi with a drink or meal.

Miscellaneous

• SIM card with data: ~$5–$10/month
• Gym membership: ~$20–$40/month
• Occasional massages or wellness services: ~$5–$15

A comfortable digital nomad lifestyle in Cambodia can easily cost $600 to $1,200 per month, depending on your preferences.

Visa Requirements & How to Stay Long-Term

Cambodia offers some of the most flexible visa options in Southeast Asia, making it easier for digital nomads to stay long-term without constant visa runs.

Tourist Visa (T-class)

You can apply for a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at airports or online through the eVisa system. It costs $30 and can be extended once for another 30 days for around $45–$50.

Ordinary (E-class) Visa – Best for Long-Term Stay

If you’re planning to stay beyond two months, apply for an Ordinary (E-class) visa on arrival (not to be confused with a business visa). It also costs $35 and allows you to apply for longer extensions through one of the sub-categories:

• EG Visa (general extension) – up to 6 months (for job seekers or undecided travelers)
• EB Visa (most common for digital nomads and freelancers) – 1, 3, 6, or 12-month extensions
• ER Visa (retirement)
• ES Visa (students)

Extensions can be done through reputable visa agencies in Cambodia, typically without needing to leave the country. A 6-month multiple-entry EB extension usually costs around $150–$300, depending on the agency.

Important Notes

• You don’t need to show employment proof for the EB extension, but this could change in the future.
• Always use a trusted visa agent to avoid scams.
• Overstaying costs $10/day, so renew on time.

Cambodia’s visa system is ideal for remote workers looking for low hassle and long-term flexibility.

Coworking Spaces & Cafés with Wi-Fi

Cambodia’s remote work scene is growing steadily, and digital nomads will find a mix of coworking spaces and café-style work spots in the main cities. While the infrastructure isn’t as developed as Bali or Chiang Mai, the essentials are more than covered — especially in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Kampot.

Top Coworking Spaces

• Phnom Penh:
  • The Desk – Modern design, fast Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and coffee included.
  • Workspace 1 – Central location, comfortable seating, and networking events.
• Siem Reap:
  • AngkorHUB – Popular with expats, offers standing desks, outdoor spaces, and community activities.
• Kampot:
  • TINI Café + Workspace – Cozy and quiet with strong coffee and good internet.
  • Simple Things – A vegetarian café with a peaceful upstairs workspace.

Monthly passes range from $50 to $150, but many offer day passes and flexible packages.

Work-Friendly Cafés

Many cafés in Cambodia double as informal workspaces. Look for those with air conditioning, charging outlets, and stable Wi-Fi. Local favorites include Brown Coffee and ARTillery Café in Phnom Penh and Footprint Café in Siem Reap.

For nomads who don’t need an office feel, Cambodia’s cafés are perfect for productive days with a latte in hand.

Things to Do in Cambodia During Your Downtime

One of the best perks of being a digital nomad in Cambodia is the abundance of off-screen experiences to enjoy when you close your laptop for the day. Whether you love nature, culture, or the beach, Cambodia offers something for every kind of explorer.

Start with the country’s crown jewel — Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Exploring these ancient temples at sunrise is a must-do. In Phnom Penh, dive into the country’s powerful history with visits to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

Nature lovers can kayak along the Kampot River, hike in Bokor National Park, or head to the Cardamom Mountains for trekking and wildlife spotting. If you’re craving island life, hop on a ferry to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem — ideal for weekend escapes with white sand and turquoise water.

Wellness is also a big part of the lifestyle. You’ll find plenty of yoga studios, meditation retreats, and massage parlors at affordable rates.

In short, Cambodia gives digital nomads a rich blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation, perfect for recharging after a day of remote work.

Tips for Living Comfortably in Cambodia as a Digital Nomad

Living in Cambodia as a digital nomad is relatively easy, but a few practical tips can help you settle in faster and avoid common pitfalls.

Learn Basic Khmer Phrases

While many locals in cities speak some English, learning greetings and simple words like “thank you” (aw khun) goes a long way in building rapport.

Use Ride-Hailing Apps

Instead of negotiating with tuk-tuk drivers, use apps like PassApp or Grab for fair, fixed prices and easier navigation.

Stay Hydrated & Healthy

Cambodia’s climate is hot and humid. Always carry water, wear sunscreen, and be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to bottled water.

Get a Local SIM Card Early

Buy a SIM card from Smart, Metfone, or Cellcard upon arrival. They’re cheap, fast, and often better than public Wi-Fi for hotspotting.

Join Expat & Nomad Communities

Facebook groups like “Digital Nomads Cambodia” or “Expats in Cambodia” are great for tips, rentals, meetups, and making new friends.

By following these simple tips, you’ll adapt more quickly and enjoy a smoother, safer experience while working remotely in Cambodia.

FAQs About Being a Digital Nomad in Cambodia