What do you need to know about renting in Phnom Penh?

Navigating through the rental market in Phnom Penh is not easy, especially if you are an expat who has just arrived in the country. Use our guidelines specifically designed for expats to prepare for your Phnom Penh expatriation. Discover all the details you require to relocate to the capital of Cambodia.

To be better prepared, here are 5 significant factors:

Rental Price: Rent depends on location, size, building quality, and services such as cleaning, gym, and security. Central areas like BKK1 and Tonle Basak are more expensive.
Security Deposit: Most landlords require 1–2 months’ rent as deposit, refunded at the end of the lease if there is no damage and all bills are paid.
Utility Bills: Utilities are usually not included in the rent. Typical monthly cost for a 1-bedroom: USD 50–100, depending on usage and building type.

Utility Bills in Phnom Penh

Electricity Cost

Housing Type:	Average Cost per KWH:
Renovated House	780 KHR/ KWH or Around $0.20/ KWH (direct bill from EDC)
Apartment/ Condo	$0.25 -$0.30/ KWH
Serviced Apartment	$0.25 – $0.35 (rare)/ KWH
Villa/ House (gated communities included.)	780 KHR/ KWH or Around $0.20 or lower/ KWH (direct bills from EDC)

Clean Water Supply (Tap Water)

Housing Type:	Average Cost per M3 (Cubic Meter):
Renovated House	Between 400 – 1250 KHR ($0.10 – $0.325) for domestic usage (Direct bill from PPWSA)
Apartment/ Condo	$0.25 – $0.75/ M3 or $5 per person/ Month
Serviced Apartment	$0.25 – $0.75/ M3 or $5 per person/ Month
Villa/ House (gated communities included.)	Between 400 – 1250 KHR ($0.10 – $0.325) for domestic usage (Direct bill from PPWSA)
Rates* are quoted in USD and the Exchange Rate* is flexible according to the market.

4. Lease Period: Most landlords prefer a 1-year lease. Short-term leases (under 6 months) are limited and usually more expensive and non-negotiable.
5. Agent Fee: At least to the present day, tenants usually do not pay agency fees. A commission is paid to the agency by the property owner; however, good agencies remain neutral as they depend on favoritism from both parties.

Notably, most of the apartments in Phnom Penh are offered to the market fully furnished or almost fully furnished with basic amenities included in the rent.

✅ Housing Types in Phnom Penh

🏢 Serviced Apartments
Best for convenience and expats. Usually include: Cleaning, Wi-Fi, security, maintenance, reception, gym, and pool.

🏬 Apartments / Condos:
No cleaning service. Facilities like gym and pool depend on the building. Maintenance handled by building management or owner.

🏠 Renovated Apartments:
Located in shophouses (no elevator), lower floors, more affordable, limited services. Common in Daun Penh and 7 Makara.

🏡 Villas & Borey Houses:
More space and privacy, good for families. Borey communities offer security and parking but are farther from the city center.
⚠️ Pet-friendly homes are limited in Phnom Penh. Always confirm before viewing.

Note: Do not be surprised when you find out that most of the properties in Phnom Penh are not pet-friendly. If you have a furry friend, you will not find many options to consider, as most owners/ property managers are concerned about the possible damages caused to the furniture.

✅ Practical Tips

✔ Start Early

Good units rent fast. Begin searching 2–4 weeks before moving.

✔ Know Your Priorities

Decide your budget, location, size, and whether you need services like cleaning or parking.

✔ Understand Area Prices

Different districts have very different price levels. Knowing the market avoids surprises.

✔ Work With a Professional Agency

A good agent helps you:

Save time
Avoid bad properties
Negotiate better terms
Understand contracts

✔ Always Read the Contract

Check deposit rules, repair responsibility, and notice period before signing.

Start your property search wisely with our real estate specialist today!

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