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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Cambodia Property Pack
Where are the best places to invest in Cambodia right now? Is Phnom Penh still the top pick, or are cities like Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and Battambang gaining ground? What makes these locations attractive to both local and foreign investors?
We’re often asked these questions because we work directly with notaries, real estate agents, and clients who invest across the country. Our firsthand experience in these markets gives us unique insights into where the real opportunities lie. To save everyone from asking privately, we’ve written this article to share our knowledge broadly.
Our goal is to highlight the hottest markets in Cambodia and explain why they’re worth your attention in 2025.
If you have suggestions or want us to dive deeper into a specific area, let us know. You shoot an email, we answer within 24 hours.
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3) Siem Reap's Wat Bo area is thriving with its blend of traditional and modern properties, attracting strong rental income from tourists
Siem Reap's Wat Bo area is a hotspot for tourists due to its charming mix of traditional and modern properties.
This blend appeals to a wide range of visitors, both local and international, who are eager for diverse accommodation options. The area is bustling with activity, and hotels and guesthouses often enjoy high occupancy rates, reflecting its popularity.
With a median monthly rent of $598, Wat Bo offers a variety of properties for rent, indicating a strong demand for accommodations. This demand is a key driver of rental income, making it a lucrative spot for property investors.
Investors are particularly drawn to Wat Bo because of its competitive rental yields, which range from 7-9%. This means that property owners can expect significant returns on their investments, especially from Western-style villas and strata-title condos.
Moreover, sales profits in the area can reach 20-30%, making it an attractive opportunity for those looking to capitalize on the booming tourism industry in Siem Reap.
Wat Bo's unique appeal lies in its ability to offer both traditional charm and modern convenience, ensuring a steady stream of tourists and a strong rental market.
Sources: IPS Cambodia, FazWaz, Khmer Times
4) Stung Treng is attracting interest for its untapped real estate potential and upcoming infrastructure projects
Stung Treng is catching eyes for its real estate potential, thanks to upcoming infrastructure projects.
One major development is the new rail freight station at Steung Bot, which will boost transport links between Cambodia, Thailand, and other Greater Mekong Subregion countries. This means easier movement of heavy cargo and agricultural goods, making the area more appealing for businesses.
The Cambodian government is pushing regional development in Stung Treng, aiming to draw in investments and tourists by highlighting the province's natural beauty and strategic location. Their focus on sustainable development and eco-tourism shows a strong commitment to the area's growth.
Foreign investors are increasingly interested in Stung Treng, attracted by its untapped potential and serene riverine landscapes. This makes it a prime spot for eco-tourism and sustainable projects, which in turn is expected to boost the local real estate market.
With these developments, Stung Treng is becoming a hotspot for those looking to invest in a region that combines natural beauty with strategic growth opportunities.
Sources: Exploring the Unique Strengths of Cambodian Provinces, Regional Investment Framework (2025–2027)
5) Kampot is attracting interest with its affordable land and high return potential as tourism grows
Kampot is catching eyes for its affordable land prices, even as the economy slows down.
Some areas have seen prices drop by up to 50% from their peak in 2019 and 2020, making it a hotspot for investors seeking budget-friendly options. This price dip is particularly appealing to those looking to get more bang for their buck.
Land transactions are on the rise, with 90% of buyers coming from Phnom Penh. This trend shows that investors and commercial entities are keen to capitalize on Kampot's lower prices and the potential for growth.
The influx of tourism-related businesses, including big names like Starbucks and Brown cafes, highlights a growing demand for consumer goods and services in Kampot. This surge in business activity is a clear sign of the area's increasing appeal.
Real estate prices are climbing, driven by the booming interest in tourism. As more businesses set up shop, the local economy is poised for growth, making Kampot an attractive investment destination.
With tourism on the rise, Kampot offers a unique opportunity for investors to tap into a market with high potential returns. The combination of affordable land and growing tourism makes it a compelling choice.
Sources: Khmer Times, Realestate.com.kh
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6) Sihanoukville's Otres Beach is booming with rapid development and rising rental yields driving property interest
Otres Beach in Sihanoukville is becoming a hotspot for property investors due to rising property prices and development.
Property prices in the area have surged, with prime real estate now costing between $2,500 and $3,500 per square meter. This jump reflects a strong demand and hints at future appreciation, making it a promising investment.
Foreign investment, especially from Indonesian and Chinese investors, is pouring in, revitalizing previously abandoned buildings. This influx of capital is breathing new life into the area, attracting more interest from potential buyers.
Tourism is booming, with more foreign tourists flocking to Cambodia, which is expected to continue. This surge in visitors is boosting the local economy and, in turn, the property market, making it a lucrative opportunity for investors.
Infrastructure improvements are also a game-changer. New transport links and urban projects are making Otres Beach more accessible, likely pushing property prices even higher. This enhanced connectivity is a major draw for those seeking growth potential.
The area is buzzing with over 360 new residential and commercial projects, including eco-friendly resorts and villas. This focus on sustainability is appealing to modern buyers, and increasing rental yields are catching investors' eyes.
Sources: Phnom Penh Post, Khmer Times, Khmer Times
8) Koh Rong is gaining attention for beachfront investments due to its rising popularity with international tourists
Koh Rong is quickly becoming a hotspot for beachfront investments, thanks to its rising fame among international tourists.
In 2023, the island caught the eye of digital nomads who were drawn to its affordability and stunning natural beauty. This trend didn't slow down in 2024, as more foreign tourists flocked to Cambodia, showing a growing interest in places like Koh Rong.
Investments in infrastructure have ramped up, especially in internet connectivity, which is a big deal for digital nomads. The improvements in passenger piers and beach amenities in Preah Sihanouk Province show a real push to boost tourist facilities.
Koh Rong is also seeing a surge in beachfront resorts and hotels, meeting the increasing demand from tourists. The Asian Development Bank predicts a big jump in tourism revenue for the area, underlining the economic promise of investing in Koh Rong's tourism industry.
For those considering property investments, Koh Rong offers a unique opportunity. The island's blend of natural allure and growing infrastructure makes it a compelling choice for investors looking to tap into the tourism boom.
With its pristine beaches and improving amenities, Koh Rong is not just a beautiful escape but a smart investment destination for those eyeing the future of tourism in Southeast Asia.
Sources: Khmer Times, Mighty Travels
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Cambodia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
9) Bavet, near the Vietnam border, is gaining interest for its strategic location in cross-border trade
Bavet is buzzing with real estate activity thanks to its prime spot near the Vietnam border.
With trade between Cambodia and Vietnam on the upswing, Bavet is becoming a hotbed for industrial parks and economic zones. This growth is not just about numbers; it's about the strategic advantage Bavet offers for cross-border trade.
Property prices are climbing as demand from residents and investors heats up. The buzz is partly due to eco-friendly urban projects and mixed-use developments that are turning heads. Plus, the Cambodian government is pouring money into infrastructure, like road extensions and historic renovations, which is boosting property values.
Foreign investors are eyeing Bavet's commercial scene, with a noticeable uptick in foreign direct investment in real estate. New businesses and factories are popping up, drawn by Bavet's trade-friendly location. The logistics and transportation sectors are also on the rise, thanks to infrastructure improvements that make moving goods easier.
All this activity is making Bavet a magnet for those looking to capitalize on its strategic position. The city's growth is a testament to its role as a key player in the region's economic landscape.
Sources: The Investor
10) Poipet is booming with its expanding casino industry driving up property values
Poipet is buzzing with a real estate boom thanks to its thriving casino industry.
With new casinos popping up, foreign investors are flocking to Poipet, drawn by enticing tax incentives. This influx of investment is transforming the town into a real estate hotspot, where property values are on the rise.
Media outlets are shining a spotlight on Poipet, labeling it a burgeoning casino hub. This attention is attracting both tourists and investors, eager to be part of the town's exciting transformation. The steady stream of Thai nationals crossing the border is a testament to the growing demand for housing and commercial spaces.
The Thai government's plans to introduce casino resorts in various provinces signal a strategic focus on the casino industry. This move could spur economic growth and boost real estate development in Poipet, mirroring the success seen in other Cambodian cities like Sihanoukville.
In Sihanoukville, massive investments in real estate have paid off, and Poipet seems to be on a similar path. The town's potential for growth is evident, with the casino industry acting as a catalyst for increased property values.
As Poipet continues to evolve, the real estate market is poised for further expansion, driven by the casino boom and the influx of both tourists and workers. The town's transformation is a clear indicator of its promising future in the property sector.
Sources: Nation Thailand, GGB Magazine, Chulalongkorn University
12) Kampong Cham is gaining attention for its affordable housing and potential as a future regional hub
Kampong Cham is catching eyes for its affordable housing market and potential as a future regional hub in Cambodia.
One big reason is the infrastructure boom happening there. The Ministry of Rural Development is busy building over 110 kilometers of roads, including in Kampong Cham. This kind of development is a game-changer, improving connectivity and making the area more attractive for both living and investment.
The government is also pushing for regional economic growth with projects like the Agricultural Chain Price Promotion and Enhancement Project. Supported by various international and local organizations, these initiatives aim to boost rural infrastructure and connectivity, likely sparking economic activities and drawing more businesses to the area.
Property prices in Kampong Cham are generally lower than in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. This affordability makes it a hot spot for local and international investors seeking cost-effective housing solutions. With ongoing infrastructure improvements, the environment is ripe for future growth.
New businesses and industries are setting up shop in Kampong Cham, adding to its allure. The city's road links to major Cambodian cities, including Phnom Penh, make it easier for new enterprises to establish themselves, leading to job creation and economic development. This can attract more people to the area, boosting demand for housing and services.
All these factors combined make Kampong Cham a promising place for those looking to invest in property, with its growing appeal and potential for future growth.
Sources: Greater Mekong, EAC News, Wikivoyage, Realestate.com.kh
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility.