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Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area)
Phnom Penh, Cambodia · Neighborhood Guide
A vibrant, slightly grittier neighborhood centered around the famous Russian Market. Great street food, local cafes, and a younger, more budget-conscious expat crowd.
Last updated March 2026
Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) at a Glance
Mid-Range
Cost Level
$250–$500/month for 1-BR
Rent Range
Generally safe — busy market area. Watch for bag-snatching on motorbike. Quieter streets at night need awareness.
Safety
20–50 Mbps — improving fibre availability. Cafés have reliable Wi-Fi.
Internet
Who Lives in Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area)?
NGO workers, young budget expats, Khmer families, market vendors, and backpackers turned long-term residents. Average age 22–35.
Living in Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) — Practical Details
Walkability
Good — compact neighborhood with the Russian Market, cafés, and restaurants all within walking distance.
Grocery & Food Access
Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung Market) for fresh produce, meat, and household goods. Small supermarkets and street food everywhere.
Getting Around
- Grab: $1–$2 to BKK1 or riverside
- Tuk-tuk: $1–$2 for local trips
- Walking covers most neighborhood needs
Nearby Coworking
- SmallWorld ($7/day)
- Workspace 1 ($5/day)
- Multiple café-coworking options near the market
Insider Tips for Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area)
- 1Russian Market is a treasure trove — designer outlet clothes, Khmer crafts, and the best fresh fruit shakes for $1
- 2The cafés on Street 440 and 450 have the neighborhood's best Wi-Fi and atmosphere for working
- 3Rent here is 30–40% less than BKK1 for similar quality apartments — genuine budget living
- 4Street food around the market is some of Phnom Penh's best and cheapest — try the num pang (Khmer baguette)
FAQ — Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area), Phnom Penh
What is Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) like for expats?
Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) is a mid-range neighborhood in Phnom Penh. A vibrant, slightly grittier neighborhood centered around the famous Russian Market. Great street food, local cafes, and a younger, more budget-conscious expat crowd. Best for: Budget-conscious expats, young professionals, and NGO workers wanting an authentic Phnom Penh experience at lower cost.
How much does it cost to live in Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area), Phnom Penh?
Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) is classified as "Mid-Range" in Phnom Penh. Typical rent: $250–$500/month for 1-BR. Total monthly budget in Phnom Penh: $800–$1,400.
Is Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) safe for expats?
Generally safe — busy market area. Watch for bag-snatching on motorbike. Quieter streets at night need awareness.
Who lives in Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area)?
NGO workers, young budget expats, Khmer families, market vendors, and backpackers turned long-term residents. Average age 22–35.
Other Neighborhoods in Phnom Penh
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
Higher-EndPhnom Penh's definitive expat neighborhood. Tree-lined streets packed with international restaurants, boutique cafes, yoga studios, and Western-standard apartments. Walkable and convenient.
Tonle Bassac
Higher-EndAdjacent to BKK1 with riverside views, upscale condos, rooftop bars, and a growing restaurant scene. Slightly more polished and quieter than BKK1.
Toul Kork
Mid-RangeA rapidly developing residential district north of the center. Newer apartment buildings, local Khmer restaurants, and a quieter pace of life. Less walkable but affordable.
Chbar Ampov / Koh Pich
Budget-FriendlyPhnom Penh's emerging districts. Koh Pich (Diamond Island) has modern condos, malls, and riverside paths. Chbar Ampov across the river is very local and very cheap.
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