The Best Places To Teach English In Cambodia

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most inviting countries for English teachers—and yet it’s often overlooked. With a mix of urban energy and small-town charm, it’s a place where the demand for English is growing, but the barriers to entry remain refreshingly low. You don’t need a teaching license or years of experience to get started here.

What makes Cambodia stand out isn’t just the opportunity to work—it’s the lifestyle that comes with it. Life here moves at a slower pace, people are warm and curious, and even in the cities, it’s easy to feel connected to your community. Whether you're looking to start your teaching journey or pivot into something more meaningful, Cambodia gives you the chance to do it all with a sense of purpose—and a sense of adventure.

🏙️ 1. Phnom Penh – The Capital and Economic Hub

Phnom Penh is where most foreign teachers begin their Cambodian journey—and for good reason. As the capital city, it offers the highest concentration of teaching jobs, including roles at private English academies, international schools, NGOs, and universities. If you're looking to teach full-time or move up into more professional roles, this is where the action is.

The city itself is a blend of the old and the new. You’ll find rooftop bars next to Buddhist temples, Western supermarkets alongside bustling wet markets, and tuk-tuks weaving through French colonial streets. While the cost of living is slightly higher than elsewhere in Cambodia, salaries also tend to be more generous, making it easier to save or enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle.

Phnom Penh also boasts a well-established expat scene, with regular events, meetups, and support networks for new teachers. It’s dynamic, sometimes chaotic, but never boring.

Best For: Teachers seeking career opportunities, networking, and city life.
Expect: Competitive job market, traffic, access to resources, and diverse students.

🛕 2. Siem Reap – Gateway to Angkor Wat and a Cultural Haven

Siem Reap is best known as the jumping-off point for exploring Angkor Wat, but it’s also a thriving town with a growing education scene. While the tourist industry dominates the economy, the demand for English—especially through NGOs and local private schools—is strong, particularly in programs supporting underprivileged youth.

The pace of life here is more relaxed than in Phnom Penh, and the cost of living is lower. Many teachers find the town’s creative energy and community-focused atmosphere incredibly rewarding. Opportunities tend to be in smaller schools or grassroots organizations, so salaries may be modest, but the impact of your work can be immense.

Outside of the classroom, Siem Reap offers a rich cultural experience, from traditional dance performances to night markets and artisan workshops. It’s ideal for teachers who want more than just a job—they want to connect with a place.

Best For: Teachers who want a balance of teaching, culture, and lifestyle.
Expect: Modest salaries, engaged learners, and strong community vibes.

🌊 3. Sihanoukville – Coastal City With Rapid Change

Sihanoukville has undergone massive transformation in recent years. What was once a chilled-out backpacker hub has become a fast-developing city, largely fueled by foreign (especially Chinese) investment. Skyscrapers and casinos now define much of the skyline, and while the changes have brought infrastructure upgrades, they’ve also disrupted the local character.

Teaching opportunities here exist but are more limited and unpredictable compared to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Some language schools and private institutions continue to operate, but the rapid pace of development and shifting demographics make job stability uncertain.

Still, Sihanoukville’s access to stunning islands and beach life is a huge draw. If you’re adaptable and looking for a more unconventional adventure, it might be worth considering.

Best For: Teachers who want to live near the coast and don’t mind unpredictability.
Expect: Unstable infrastructure, limited school options, but unique lifestyle perks.

🏞️ 4. Battambang – The Artistic, Under-the-Radar Gem

Battambang is Cambodia’s second-largest city, but it feels far more relaxed and artistic than you might expect. Known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, lively arts scene, and riverside charm, it’s a place where creative types and long-term expats tend to settle.

While it doesn’t have the volume of job listings found in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, you’ll still find opportunities in language centers, local schools, and community-focused NGOs. Salaries are modest, but so is the cost of living—which makes it easy to live comfortably on less.

Battambang offers a more personal and reflective teaching experience, perfect for those who enjoy meaningful relationships with students and a calm pace of life.

Best For: Teachers looking for a quiet, creative, and affordable lifestyle.
Expect: Smaller schools, tight-knit community, slower pace.

🛤️ 5. Kampot – Riverside Charm and Growing Appeal

Kampot has quietly become one of Cambodia’s most beloved expat hubs, known for its peaceful riverside setting, colonial-era architecture, and surrounding natural beauty. Though small, the town punches above its weight in quality of life, attracting teachers, digital nomads, and creative travelers alike.

Teaching jobs here are limited but available—especially in local academies, NGOs, and community centers. While salaries aren’t high, the cost of living is low, and the relaxed pace means you’ll have plenty of time to explore the countryside or enjoy sunset river cruises.

Kampot is ideal for teachers who value lifestyle and connection over climbing a career ladder.

Best For: Teachers seeking peace, nature, and community over career hustle.
Expect: Modest income, friendly locals, and scenic views.

📍 6. Honorable Mentions: Other Towns and Rural Areas

Cambodia is full of smaller towns and countryside communities where English teachers can make a meaningful impact—especially those interested in volunteering or grassroots education.

• Kep: A tranquil coastal retreat perfect for those who want serenity. Teaching opportunities are rare and often limited to private tutoring or remote work.
• Takeo & Pursat: More rural and off the beaten path, these provinces are ideal for volunteer placements, NGOs, or community outreach programs.
• Kandal Province: Situated just outside Phnom Penh, Kandal offers a blend of rural charm and easy city access—making it a good choice for teachers who want both peace and proximity.

These areas offer cultural depth and connection, but may lack the infrastructure or job variety found in larger cities.

Best For: Adventurous teachers or volunteers.
Expect: Deep cultural immersion, low cost of living, and fewer resources.

📝 Conclusion: Find the Right Fit for Your Goals

Whether you're chasing career growth, craving a peaceful riverside escape, or hoping to contribute to grassroots education, Cambodia has a teaching destination that fits your vibe. From Phnom Penh’s fast-paced urban scene to Kampot’s slow, scenic rhythm, each place offers its own blend of opportunities and lifestyle.

The key is knowing what kind of experience you want—then leaning into it with openness, flexibility, and a sense of adventure. Teaching English in Cambodia isn’t just about a job—it’s about discovering a different way to live, connect, and grow.

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