Phnom Penh is a great alternative to any Thai city.
Of course Thailand is about 10 years ahead of Cambo in urban development but in PP you have every bit of the comfortable amenities that BKK has to offer for a cheaper price.
And even if it didn't have those, anything is better than having to deal with the unorganized Thai immigration.
"You want to stay here and have your children go to school here? Welcome, sir. Just pay the visa fee at the airport and then fuck off until you need an extension next year. Welcome to beautiful Cambodia oh, and if you want to work here just get a job and then change your visa to a work visa whenever you want."