Moving near the Central Business District could be such a chore, yet a good thing for some. With the demands of this era’s on-the-go lifestyle, it is no surprise how some people end up trotting from one district to another—either to keep up with the fast pace of city living or to take a breather and slowdown in the suburbs.
Whether you’re changing zip codes for work or pleasure, here are some questions you have to consider when finding a new address in the city.
Can I afford it?
While the posh central business district of Phnom Penh is attractive for each city dweller, not everyone can afford to live in Cambodia’s capital. The cost of living in the city is often more costly compared to rural areas due to them being hot zones for economic activity. This means that you need to know your financial situation and compute an accurate estimate of what you can afford when you factor in the true cost of living in the city.
When you’re looking for real estate, either to buy or rent in cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap or Sihanoukville, make sure that you stick to the budget you allot. Additionally, take into consideration the following to have a more accurate computation for the cost of living:
- Taxes
- Transportation
- Groceries
- Utilities
- Insurance
- Rent/Mortgage
- Gas
- Mobile plan
- Leisure and more.
Take note though that common leisure activities like going to a bar, watching movies, and others can have different costs depending on the city.
Is it safe?
When you’re moving to a new city in Cambodia, your priority should be your safety. Check the crime rate of the area and the most common crimes that occur there. While it’s unavoidable that crime occurs anywhere, you need to make sure that the area you’re looking to move into only has a low crime rate.
If you’re planning on living in a condominium or a gated community, make sure that it has security measures in place like guards and CCTV cameras.
Is it accessible?
The first thing you need to consider when finding the right place in the city for you is its accessibility. If it is close to your job and other conveniences like grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals and more, then the place is good for you. For expats, check if the city you’re eyeing has access to your home country’s embassy in case you need to fix your papers.
Additionally, you need to determine if the place is near where your family and friends live. It depends on you if you want to live close or far from them but you have to factor in their accessibility and proximity to your place as well.
Is there opportunity?
Finding a job in the city means you can get higher compensation compared to jobs in the province. However, not all cities have a thriving job market so make sure to check if they have numerous positions available in the industry you work in. Whether you are looking for a job right now or not, it is a great idea to live in a city that offers competitive salaries, opportunities, and career growth.
Will I feel at home?
At the end of the day, nothing beats the feeling of being at home. Scout units or houses in the city closest to your lifestyle.
If you’re a bona fide city dweller, Phnom Penh is your best bet. In love with the culture, yet prefer city living? The cultural melting pot that is Siem Reap is the city for you. Beach lovers could find heaven in Sihanoukville, whilst retirees can find refuge in the quiet district of Kep and Kampot.
Cambodia is made up of a number of cities and districts with unique characteristics that can surely fit every individual needs. Start your home search in the cities of Cambodia by visiting IPS-Cambodia.
