Cambodia, a Southeast Asian country rich in history and culture, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international teachers. With its affordable cost of living and a growing demand for English language instruction, it offers an attractive opportunity for those looking to embark on a teaching career abroad. But where exactly in Cambodia should you consider teaching? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best paying cities for international teachers in Cambodia.
Phnom Penh
As the capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is often the first choice for international teachers. The city is home to a large number of international schools and language centres, offering a wide range of teaching opportunities. The cost of living in Phnom Penh is relatively low compared to other capital cities in Southeast Asia, which means your salary will go a lot further.
Salaries for international teachers in Phnom Penh can vary greatly depending on the school and your qualifications. However, on average, you can expect to earn between $1,000 and $2,500 per month. This is significantly higher than the national average salary in Cambodia, which is around $250 per month.
Living in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is a bustling city with a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of cultural attractions. It’s a city that never sleeps, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and markets to explore. The city is also home to several historical sites, such as the Royal Palace and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Despite its bustling nature, Phnom Penh still retains a certain charm with its French colonial architecture and wide boulevards. The cost of living is affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costing around $300 to $500 per month.
Siem Reap
Siem Reap, known for the world-renowned Angkor Wat, is another popular destination for international teachers in Cambodia. The city has a growing number of international schools and language centres, and with the influx of tourists, there is a high demand for English language instruction.
Salaries in Siem Reap are slightly lower than in Phnom Penh, with international teachers earning between $800 and $2,000 per month. However, the cost of living in Siem Reap is also lower, which means your salary will still go a long way.
Living in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a smaller city compared to Phnom Penh, but it is not lacking in charm or things to do. The city is home to a vibrant expat community, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and markets to explore. The cost of living is also lower than in Phnom Penh, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costing around $200 to $400 per month.
One of the main attractions of living in Siem Reap is the proximity to Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient temple complex is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia, and it’s a must-visit for anyone living in or visiting Cambodia.
Battambang
Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, is another option for international teachers. The city has a slower pace of life compared to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, but it still offers plenty of teaching opportunities.
Salaries in Battambang are lower than in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, with international teachers earning between $500 and $1,500 per month. However, the cost of living in Battambang is also significantly lower, which means your salary will still go a long way.
Living in Battambang
Battambang is a peaceful city with a relaxed pace of life. It’s a great place to live if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The city is home to several historical sites, such as the Battambang Museum and the Phnom Sampeau hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The cost of living in Battambang is very affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costing around $150 to $300 per month. The city also has a lower cost of living compared to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, which means your salary will go further.
Conclusion
Choosing the best city to teach in Cambodia depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Phnom Penh offers the highest salaries and a bustling city life, Siem Reap offers a mix of city life and historical attractions, and Battambang offers a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle.
Regardless of where you choose to teach, Cambodia offers a unique opportunity to live and work in a fascinating country while earning a competitive salary. So why not take the plunge and start your teaching adventure in Cambodia?
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