Cost of Living in Russia


Depending on where you live, the cost of living in Russia could be extremely expensive or very cheap. Moscow has a reputation as one of the ten most expensive cities in the world, and you will find that food and accommodation in Moscow is very expensive. However, in smaller cities in Russia accommodation will be less in demand and you will be able to find cheaper solutions.

During winter, fresh fruit and vegetables are mostly imported so these become more expensive. Russian production of foodstuffs has increased and many products are now produced locally. Most supermarkets will stock a full range of products comparable to European supermarkets, with European products obviously more expensive than local products. If you are not in Moscow, St Petersburg or another large city you will struggle more to find imported foodstuffs.

A 2-bedroom flat in Moscow or St Petersburg will cost you around 24,000 roubles per month. A loaf of bread costs 20 roubles, an imported can of beer 100 roubles, a meal out with drinks is around 1000 roubles and a pack of cigarettes 50 roubles.Clothing and shoes are particularly expensive and it is a good idea to arrive in Russia fully stocked!

1.00 USD = 30.40 RUB

Here follows a cost guide for Russia:
Accommodation (monthly cost in good area)
Furnished 2 bedroom apartment RUB 30,500
Unfurnished 2 bedroom apartment RUB 24,000
Room in shared apartment RUB 12,000
Food and Drink
Milk RUB 30
Butter RUB 33
Cheese RUB 80
Bread (white loaf) RUB 20
Spaghetti RUB 45
Sugar RUB 25
Coca Cola RUB 30
Still mineral water RUB 30
Potatoes RUB 20
Tomatoes RUB 65
Apples RUB 120
Bananas RUB 29
Fresh beef filet RUB 400
Chicken RUB 170
Fresh white fish RUB 500
Imported can of beer RUB 100
Cigarettes RUB 50
Household
Laundry detergent RUB 85
Dishwashing liquid RUB 40
Soap RUB 18
Toothpaste RUB 45
Shampoo RUB 75
Deodorant RUB 67
Utilities
Telephone line (monthly rental)    RUB 300.00
Purchase of low cost cell phone    RUB 3,000
3 minute cell phone call RUB 18
Monthly energy costs apartment RUB 1,000
Eating Out, Entertainment & Health
Three-course dinner in restaurant RUB 1,000
Fast-food meal    RUB 190
Cup of coffee in bar/cafe    RUB 100
Annual gym membership  RUB 45,000
Doctor consultation RUB 2,000
Public Transportation
Taxi rate per km RUB 120
City centre bus fare RUB 20
Car hire daily RUB 3,500

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