How expensive is life in Russia really?

A key factor when choosing your new home is, of course, rent. And here, there’s a huge difference between the two countries! In major German cities like Berlin, Hamburg, or Munich, rent prices have skyrocketed in recent years 🚀. It’s not uncommon to pay at least 1,000 euros per month for a small apartment. In Moscow, Russia’s most expensive city, prices are also high, but you’ll still get a better deal.

🏙 Moscow
For a 2-room apartment in the city center, you’ll pay around 60,000 rubles (approx. 600 euros) per month. In smaller cities like Krasnodar or Novosibirsk, prices drop to around 30,000 rubles (approx. 300 euros).

🏙 Berlin
A comparable apartment in the city center often costs 1,200 euros or more. In smaller cities, you might get away with 800 euros – but that’s still significantly more expensive than in Russia.

💡 Tip: If you’re considering moving to a small Russian town, you could easily save half the rent you’d pay in Germany. In Moscow, prices are higher but still cheaper than in major German cities.

Daily life also includes grocery shopping, and here, too, there are significant price differences.

Let’s look at some basic food items:

🥛 Milk (1 liter)
In Russia, you’ll pay around 60 rubles (0.60 euros), while in Germany, it’s about 1.10 euros.

🍞 Bread (500 g)
In Russia, a loaf costs around 30 rubles (0.30 euros), while in Germany, you’ll pay at least 1.50 euros.

🥩 Chicken breast (1 kg)
In Russia, it costs around 300 rubles (3 euros), while in Germany, it’s at least 7-8 euros.

Of course, prices depend on where you shop and the brands you prefer. But overall, food in Russia is significantly cheaper than in Germany, especially at local markets. 🥕🍎

💡 Tip: Fresh produce at Russian farmers’ markets is available at unbeatable prices! If you value quality and saving money, you’re in the right place.

In Germany, a monthly public transport pass often costs over 80 euros, especially in big cities. In Moscow, a monthly pass for all public transport costs around 2,500 rubles (25 euros). And in smaller cities like Yekaterinburg or Kazan, the costs are even lower. 🚇

When it comes to driving, there’s also a big difference: gas prices!

In Germany, you’ll currently pay around 1.80 euros per liter of gas, while in Russia, it’s about 60 rubles (0.60 euros). No wonder so many Russians rely on their own cars, while in Germany, owning a car is more of a luxury. 🚘

💡 Tip: If you switch to public transport in Russia, you can save a lot! Or treat yourself to a car – even that is more affordable here than in Germany.

Movies, theater, dining out – all of this is part of a fulfilling life! But here, too, the differences between Germany and Russia are significant. 🍿🎟️

🎥 Movie ticket
In Moscow, a ticket costs around 300 rubles (3 euros), while in Germany, it’s often 12 euros or more.

🍝 Dining out
A simple lunch at a restaurant costs around 500 rubles (5 euros) in Russia, while in Germany, it’s more like 15 euros.

Cultural activities like museum visits, theater tickets, or concerts are also cheaper in Russia – especially in smaller cities.

You can enjoy just as many activities as in Germany, but with a much smaller budget! 😄

Don’t forget: Russia also has a health insurance system, though it’s different from Germany’s. Many expats opt for private health insurance, which is often cheaper than in Germany.

Other costs like electricity and internet are also generally lower in Russia.

💡 Electricity costs
In Russia, you’ll pay around 2 rubles (0.02 euros) per kWh, while in Germany, it’s 0.30 euros.

🌐 Internet
Monthly costs for fast internet in Russia are around 500 rubles (5 euros), while in Germany, it’s often 30-40 euros.

The cost comparison clearly shows...

Life in Russia is generally much cheaper than in Germany. 🤑 Especially in small and medium-sized cities, the cost of living is unbeatable.

Rent, food, gas – all of these put less strain on your budget in Russia.

Of course, it depends on your lifestyle and the city you choose, but overall, you can save a lot in Russia while still enjoying a high quality of life.

With smart planning and adapting to local conditions, you can live a great life in Russia and have more money left for leisure or travel.

💡 My tip: If you’re considering moving to Russia, it’s important to do your research beforehand. There are many exciting cities and regions that are affordable and livable.

However, one of the most important things you shouldn’t underestimate is the language.

Without Russian, daily life can quickly become challenging – whether it’s shopping, dealing with bureaucracy, or simply talking to locals. Russian culture is warm, but speaking the language will help you integrate faster and gain a whole new perspective on life.

With the right language course, you can prepare yourself and make the transition to Russia much easier. I recommend this course: Learn Russian – Simple & Effective. 🚀