Living expenses in Russia | Budget for a month in Moscow & small cities

How much does it cost to live in Moscow vs in provincial Russian cities. How much money you need for food, supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, renting an apartment and transportation. I've talked about my monthly expenses, and I also discussed how much you would need for luxurious life in Russia. In this video, you can count an approximate budget for traveling in Russia.
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What do I do?
My name is Elina, some friends call me Eli. I am from Russia, but always travel for studying or working abroad.
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Here I share my experiences of finding scholarships to study abroad for free, opportunities all over the world; I also talk about my home country Russia and compare cultural aspects of different countries.
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• Russian phrases for be... - Russian phrases for beginners | Greetings & Goodbyes | Lesson 1
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• Learning Slavic Langua... - Learning Slavic Languages | Differences in Russian and Ukrainian
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[@jakkapobdach-in1085]

I am a foreign student and have been studying in Perm for already 2 years now, enjoying every moment here in Russia :)

[@hemanshuchudasama3535]

What are you studying there

[@irinadream1936]

If there is a pool, gym, etc you’d have to pay for those. If you just buy an apartment in a usual apartment block and it’s a new apartment , then you’d have to pay for maintenance and like rates ( for lawn maintenance, lifts, concierge , heating( if you can’t switch it off individually in your apartment), and the rates will depend on the area of the apartment and how many people are registered to live there( if no one lives there , they’ll charge you for one person for rubbish removal anyways ).

[@vassily239rus]

@beswick1111 Hi! I'm from St.-Petersburg (Russians call our city "Piter"). Firstly, I laughed when I read about pools or gyms in a complex... Only elite-class complexes have ones, in locations like Krestovskiy Ostrov, and apartments there cost $ 1 000 000 and more. Did you ask about them? Ordinary Russians attend public jyms and pools ;)) Secondly, every apartment owner is obliged to pay "kommunalnyye uslugi", "communal services", Every building taller than 5 storeys has a lift, every building has public spaces which need light, heating in winter, cleaning, many buildings have concierges who need salary etc. That is divided for all property holders, in proportion of their share of area of the apartment. That makes "communal services". Plus you need to pay for electricity and water you've spent inside your apartment. If we speak about ordinary 1-2 bedroom apartment, not Krestovskiy Ostrov, that usually makes not more than 100$ per month. A bit less in summer, a bit more in winter, cause there is heating in winter. In Russia it is cheaper than in Europe. It is paid every month to the "управляющая компания", "the managing company". ;))

[@vassily239rus]

@beswick1111 @beswick1111 yes, every apartment has the community service fee, even if it is in a 3-storey building. Because of "space of common usage", but it is usually corridors and stairs, not jyms and pools ;)) Also it is garbage takeaway and recycling etc. Here are more presize figures: I have a small 1-bedroom apartment, I paid about 60$ per month during winter, and about 40$ for May, when the heating was off. My mother has bigger 3-bedroom apartment, and a concierge service in a building, she pays about 100-120$. I don't know whether it is a lot or not, I only know my relatives in Europe pay more. Also there are state taxes in addition to that. General real estate tax rate is 0,1% of a price per year, but you better ask a lawyer. Did I help you? ;))

[@vassily239rus]

@beswick1111 and, of course I meant, these figures, $50-$100 per month, are total community service fees. Public areas, garbage takeaway, your own water and electricity and heating taken together ;))

[@nastasjaparschew7019]

I am living in Germany and I have only seen the US do the weird thing of not including the taxes into the price before check out.. I believe all of Europe includes them prior. Also in Germany it's also quite normal in some supermarkets to weigh the fruits and vegetables, others have built-in scales though like someone else commented

[@thomasdaniels5555]

Yeah it is strange because I live in South Carolina and there’s not tax on food- however; there is in North Carolina… each state regulates there own taxes vs the federal gov controlling it

[@michaeljhirz]

The USA is made up of states and they all have a taxation system they are different between states. Sales taxes are at the point of purchase and also regional based on a county. Where I reside part of it goes to public transit and also regional parks. For example, the state sales tax may be 7% and then an additional %0.05 goes to parks and another additional 1% to support the public transit. These are voted on in levies. The total tax on purchases exclude food and other items like alcohol and tobacco have higher taxes and they are also voted on. The USA does not have VAT like Europe, if I pay the tax on a sale, I can get an exemption if it is for resale. The vendor or retailer submits the tax to the governments, the totals of inventory bought and sold should match… When we purchase gas or electricity we pay excise taxes, phones are charged with communication taxes. It’s a diversified tax system, then there are auditors also voted in by the public to ensure the funds kept accountable. There is more…

[@NoMady688]

​@@michaeljhirz ive Heard once that Water and internet was free... I mean no tax. But does It change in country to country ?

[@BrianMolstad]

It varies from state to state, but in most states, food bought at a grocery/super market is tax free.

[@lt1148]

I love Russia. I went there in 2016 and I had an amazing experience! Good food, stunning women, the subway is beautiful!

[@mvp019]

Having been to both Moscow and St. Petersburg, I have to say I preferred St. Petersburg - such a great city. Moscow is nice, but a little overpowering. However, Moscow Metro is the best people moving system I have ever seen, and I have used the Metros/subways in NYC, Chicago, Milan, Dusseldorf, Peter, and others.

[@stanspb763]

The Metro in St Petersburg is a little more modest except the RED line but Moscow's city center stations are spectacular. Too bad they are so busy it is hard to stop and enjoy the stunning beauty. I never liked Moscow as much as SPb but in the last 10 years or so, the "new" mayor has transformed the city with making it one of the nicest most livable large cities on earth. Adding the pedestrian streets and the access to views and the rivers, the coordination of architecture it has become very appealing ti live in. Both St Petersburg and Moscow are being cited as top European foodie destinations with great good at moderate prices with thousands of very creative chef owned small and mid-sized restaurants with a fresh creative approach.

[@mvp019]

@@stanspb763 I love Starry Arbat too.

[@Thetequilashooter1]

I think the subways in DC are pretty good, especially in comparison to NYC.

[@mvp019]

@@Thetequilashooter1 The only reason to like the NYC subway is if you enjoy the smell of stale hot dogs and dried urine...

[@ffwast]

Hehehe "I have to say I preferred peter"

[@quaintonquaint5486]

My mom was born and raised in Kiev, her mother and father grew up an hour away from Moscow. My grandmother is still living, I hope after covid-19 I can visit her. Spasiba! This video makes me want to live there for sure.

[@AdriellAraujo]

Such a complete video!! I'm moving to Russia maybe next year, and definitely, It is a really useful video!

[@maros1974]

Hi Adriell, so how's your life in Russia now ?

[@louiesy2427]

I can't believe that is cheaper to buy goods from groceries in Russia than here in Manila. Even the transportation is a lot more cheaper. Almost same value for the housing, but all other expenses are so affordable 😍

[@osamabinladen824]

That's it. I'm moving to Russia.

[@ghostspirit6918]

@@osamabinladen824 u came back from hell how did you do it ?

[@osamabinladen824]

@@ghostspirit6918 I never died. That was my stunt double that got killed.

[@peterlj613]

Because in Philippines hardly anything is being manufactured.

[@michaelkitner9631]

Your country is on my bucket list. St. Petersburg and Moscow

[@Bender81]

Been there in 2019. Would recommend 100%

[@michellesouders2627]

Not me!! I love the USA

[@vladruiz9853]

those aren’t really russia lol

[@zayn2241]

*our

[@mysymphony67]

@@vladruiz9853 😂

[@julzjohan4755]

As I was there in mid 2019, I was surprised how beautiful and safe it was. I thought Sydney was clean, but Moscow and st Petersburg topped it. I can't wait for the C19 to be over and I'm there... Thank you

[@davidmeakin2610]

We spent a month in Russia in 2019. Rented an apartment, shopped at local supermarkets and used the Metro to get around. Loved our time there. Prices are much cheaper than Australia. We can't wait to return.

[@irinadream1936]

The average cleaner in Oz earns more in an hour than a specialist in Russia per day. That’s why it all seems cheap for us. In fact, clothes and shoes are more expensive compared to Aus( especially considering the wages). But true, very affordable for tourists. Before covid, we lived going to Moscow for Xmas and Krasnodar for summer holidays (from Melbourne), for two people it was cheaper to go to Russia ( including the flights ) and really live a dream for a couple of months than go to Queensland for two weeks 😂 seriously , can’t afford going to Great Barrier Reef , but can afford going to Paris because it was cheaper pre covid 😂🤷‍♀️

[@solarpoweredrainbow7591]

@irena everything’s relative.

[@redakaroum7945]

In France, you have the final prize too, only in USA as far as I know where they do not mention the full prize... Same for the weight process, we do it ourself in France ;) For the cheeses and breads, I do not need to mention where you can find the best in the world ;) But i am planing to visit Russia this summer so i will try all those foods ;) Thanks for those videos, very nice.

[@cosmicsection1263]

Alors tu as pu y aller ? Et si oui c’etait comment ?

[@russb3240]

In the USA there is no federal sales tax. The sales tax depends on the state. Most states have a sales tax and the amount of the tax varies by state. In the state I live, unprepared food items (like pasta, cans of soup, raw meats and vegetables) do not have sales tax. Prepared food items (like premade sandwiches, salads, rotisserie chicken, soda) are taxed. General merchandise (like cleaning supplies, bath soap, and toilet paper) are taxed. Again what is taxed and by how much is determined by the state and in some cases the city. In large cities (NY, Chicago) there are also city sales taxes.

[@naturalexplorer]

Excellent summary of the cost of living in Moscow. Well done! It is a lot cheaper compared to cost of living in Australia - especially Sydney. But the salary/expenses ratio between the countries would make it somewhat more balanced living.

[@АнтонОлейник-ъ9д]

An important note. It is necessary to consider not the total income, but the free balance. In Russia, there is no need to pay for medical insurance separately, as it applies to all employees. Therefore, the incomes of Russians are not as low as it seems.

[@indiawale3077]

We are very thankful to Russia. Because Russia is true friend of Indians❤️

[@zexalex]

Final price is also shown in most european countries that i know of. And you need to use the scales for fruit and vegetables too. Some supermarkets have the scales built in the cash register desk / check out

[@maper343]

May be she hasn't enough travels, but she want to be famouse youtuber ;)

[@markopodganjek845]

Yeah, at hoffer it weight it at cashier automaticly.

[@Shteno]

Yes, that's absolutely the case in my country (I live in Macedonia, in the Balkans). As a matter of a fact, they're going towards ONLY scales at cash register!

[@loa367]

We do the same in Portugal, in some supermarkets, at least in Lisbon

[@jofusgreen5104]

Well they do it at the register in the US so people don't cheat and lie about how much they actually are buying.

[@calripson]

Those same luxury apartments in New York would be $20,000 a month

[@tonytemple4351]

Same thing I was thinking too

[@bekjohansson3016]

Damn, now I am rethinking my cheap ass. I knew New York was expensive but damn. No thanks, I want to move to Russia for other reasons but now I have one more reason. This country bumpkin going to be living up in Moscow.

[@Thetequilashooter1]

I lived in Manhattan around 35 years ago, and even then its costs were more expensive than what they’re commonly here in San Diego. I remember going into bars in NY and it would cost &20 just to get in, and then $10 for a Rolling Rock beer. It was ridiculous. I spent more than I made so I didn’t last there long.

[@dulaclancelot9528]

Interesting, real discovery. Thanks to these various short videos, the image I get from Russia is frankly different than what's given by "main stream" medias. I'll think about visiting Russia...

[@annawarner1078]

Yes - I thought the same. The main stream media is concerned primarily with "evils of Putin", while people in Russia are just living normal lives, similar to ours. I guess we need a boogie man to justify our $700+ Billion a year military budget. What I like about Russia is vastness of unspoiled nature. It is a beautiful country.

[@dulaclancelot9528]

@@annawarner1078 i'm chekking out how to get a visa.

[@annawarner1078]

@@dulaclancelot9528Make the video while you are travelling in Russia. Bon voyage.

[@NYCTOMOSCOW888]

I’m a native Moscovite/New Yorker and every time I visit Moscow everything seems to be SO CHEAP comparing to Manhattan prices. Btw, the fanciest neighborhoods would be Patriki which is the Patriarch Ponds (similar to Soho in NYC) and Tsvetnoy Boulevard area. Moscow city is no longer a thing..

[@cristinaelisabet9370]

Moscow city is no longer a thing?

[@bjturnipatch]

I’m a retired pharmacist living in Omaha Nebraska. It’s mostly less expensive to live in Moscow compared to Omaha. I love the idea of public transportation. Thanks....gotta go now !!

[@DarkRuins]

as an american i got so confused the first time i tried to buy produce, cause i didnt put a sticker on it and the cashier literally rolled their eyes and had to get someone to do it for me. they even do it when you buy individual candies! also, i found moscow fairly cheap. though compared to spb it is definitely more expensive. as a tourist i sincerely have no complaints though, i love russia wholeheartedly. moscows metro is the best in the entire world, and probably my favorite part of the city.

[@DerpEye]

Well, you have to weigh the vegetables in most of europe too.

[@solracer66]

I'd had to do that in other European countries before I went to Russia in 2012 so it didn't surprise me. I had actually gone to Russia back in the 1990s as well but back then it was either like the US or it was the old Soviet system where the clerk got everything for you after you had paid.

[@spacenoodles5570]

@@solracer66 that system still exists in most smaller countryside shops

[@gabrielavateferfutr685]

@@solracer66 Podobny system z naklejkami był w niektórych sklepach w Szwajcarii.

[@normanhill535]

Washington DC is expensive too.

[@mysymphony67]

Ur vlog is very educational in many various aspects of Russia 👍 Enjoying ur clips! Thank You 🙏🏼 Keep it up 👍

[@Thevault741]

This was very helpful. I've been wanting to visit a few places in Russia just needed to know what I should save up for it. Thanks

[@VegasNegus]

Very helpful Eli. Well made video and most interesting.

[@westernwanderer8397]

My dream is to move to Russia. Always wanted to since I was young. I don't know why, just have always been drawn there. Maybe someday my dream will come true.

[@biggerbitcoin5126]

Because women are women there.

[@БиггиСмолс-ю6ь]

I know why coz you don’t get any where you live

[@ferdrewflores3612]

DO IT ! U CAN !! ☝️💯💯👏👏🙏

[@neokianweejimmy4739]

Reasonable living cost to stay in🙏

[@annemarieradova]

i have been with my boyfriend in Moscow for a week exactly year ago (in December) and it was my nicest vacation. Definitely we want to visit Moscow again !! and we in czech republic we also have to weigh veg and fruits first :D For compare rents are higher in Moscow and food in supermarket is same, some products are more expensive and some are cheaper :)

[@wdchapman1969]

Just a friendly note, when listing a price or monetary value in the US, we use a decimal or period between the dollars and cents and only use commas between dollar amounts i.e. $2.80 or two dollars and eighty cents. If the number is above $999.00, it would be $1, 000.00 or one thousand dollars and zero cents.

[@stanspb763]

Russia used the most common international currency notation.

[@Woc1919]

I live in San Diego, The prices that you were quoting were unbelievably cheap, The cheese that you put in your basket would cost $15 in San Diego. The little bottle of water that you pointed to, cost $2.50. A dozen eggs, would cost you $4.00 renting a four bedroom average house in San Diego, 3500 ft.² , is $5000 per month. If I moved to Russia I would be considered very very rich. I think your country is beautiful❤️

[@theincantrix1144]

I live in MI and a dozen eggs is $1.50. Also, who the fk rents a 3500 sqft home? But, 70% of that and an acre of land for $950/mo - buying. You simply pay more because you want to live in a socialist-communist state.

[@Woc1919]

Oh my gosh, I would never live in Deerborn Michigan, they have sharia law there, And American law has no jurisdiction, it’s fucking disgusting what is happening in Deerborn Michigan😂 , and to boot, the population of the sharia law lovers is growing exponentially, and it will start to spread throughout Michigan, and there’s nothing you can do to stop it😂

[@ceomike5178]

😂😂😂u told no lies here 😂. Bruh we move there from United States straight balling outta control in Russia 🇷🇺 😂😂

[@hershellacey9405]

At my store in upstate N.Y. 32 bottles of water cost $5 with tax.

[@Woc1919]

@@hershellacey9405 Wow that’s insane

[@MsNoerchen01]

Could you do more videos in Russian, with subtitles? It's great to learn! Love!

[@TravelingMan63]

A one room apartment (studio) here in San Francisco is $2,000 USD or approx. 151,622.00 rubles. A one bedroom rents for $3,000 USD or 227433.00 rubles. Thank you for showing us what it costs to live in Moscow.

[@christianlibertarian5488]

@@ElifromRussia San Francisco is the highest cost in the US.

[@Kosiso-by1mc]

I school in Russia, it's a nice country, I like the language but its hard to learn, it's so funny when I try to speak to other Russians, but I will learn and I love your videos ❤

[@christopherlauter9403]

Eli, your English is wonderful your personality is perfect thank you for taking the time to dude this short documentary. I really enjoy seeing how cheap it is to live in Russia. I would love to visit your country one day the people seem so lovely

[@diegoserna5481]

I'm from Texas and it's the first time I've heard farmers cheese, we call it cottage cheese!!

[@irinadream1936]

Cottage cheese is still different , it’s more like “quark”( but usually only sold in smaller shops and independent international grocers )

[@theowl2044]

It's not the same.

[@ursa8400]

I'm from GA, we also call it cottage cheese. I've never heard farmer's cheese.

[@josephglenny9540]

They are different but similar, I believe only the US calls the cheese Cottage cheese, I was in Central and South America and it is called farmers.

[@peanut71968]

Great info and presentation! Thanks for sharing!

[@tdawk7]

What a great video! So much information! I caught myself wishing things were that price where I live in the USA but it’s all relative, wages or income vs COL. I did see someone mention we have to weigh our produce but it is built into the cashiers machine. And my house per month is on your high end scale. That is an average suburban family home in a quality neighborhood. So interesting. I’m new to your channel so I haven’t looked yet but it would be great to hear what hair salon prices are (I’m a stylist) and what clothing costs. And what women pay to maintain themselves. Thanks for the video!

[@RicardoTeixeira1993]

Hello, I'm Portuguese and I found your channel today. I loved your video, a lot of info, very interesting! I'm excited to see more, stay well, big hug from Portugal!

[@t.g.5250]

Russia is crazy about potatoes. Once I put just a handfull of potatoes in a plastic bag. My boyfriend watched this and said: Tanja, thats not enough. Not ENOUGH. haha 😂

[@fredpearson5204]

I love how you pronounce "rubles" as if you think that's how an English speaker would say the word, but we actually pronounce it much as a Russian would, with an double o sound, as in cool. Also, in America and England (both places I have lived), in some cases we also weigh our vegetables when we buy them. I enjoy your videos.

[@hershellacey9405]

Rooble.

[@SerpentineUsurper]

Always planned to visit Russia. Love your informative presentations.

[@swedish_delight]

I love your channel, Elina! I looooove Russia and you're doing great. We also have to use scales when buying vegetables or fruits. About your question... It's almost impossible to live with less than 1,500€ a month in Helsinki. Life is extremely expensive here

[@jameshart5522]

I am so impressed with your English speaking skills. You have my greatest admiration.

[@DanyCesc83]

Gotta love the nice exchange rate 😂 I pay 3350 a month for my house which I own add utility and all the other minor costs and you can easily be paying 3700+

[@chuckyu2878]

Great job in explaining the cost of living in Moscow. I will visit the city after I retire from my work in 3 years. I was once fascinated by Rassia literatures in my youth and wanted to see Russia from then.

[@Stemal39]

In Finland, we have to weigh our greens, (potatoes) as well! All the best to Russia!

[@josephjoe9775]

Why is that if I may ask?

[@yad-thaddag]

@@josephjoe9775 Because products are sold by weight.

[@josephjoe9775]

@@yad-thaddag that's great for consumers

[@marmusmula]

Same in Serbia. :)

[@siriboonkotchaseth297]

Hi Elina. Thank you for your nice VDO. I am your follower from Thailand.

[@TatisRingwormCreme]

I thought it would be super expensive as some Russians would tell me but I thought it was moderately well priced and public transport was cheap. Lots to do and great nightlife as well. Loved my 2 years in Moscow and intend to visit once this covid stuff dies down. Спасибо!

[@RBLXGaming23]

In America in the 1960's and 70's we would weigh our produce to know how much we needed at a certain price per pound. We put the weight on the bag and the cashier would ring it up. Since the late 1980's the cashier always does that and scales are not even provided to customers anymore.

[@hershellacey9405]

To cheat us.

[@fabriziop8298]

Ciao, Elina! I had been living in Moscow for almost 6 months until three weeks ago, when i came back to Milan. I got a bit confused by listening to your video. By my perspective, Moscow's prices were pretty different: just about my renting in the city, me and my other two roommates who I shared the big flat with, we used to pay it 35k rubles/500€ per month just for one room (I lived in Botanichesky Sad in a new built three rooms apartment, in a half suburban area of the city). When i ate at mu-mu sometimes, i payed averagely 8€ minimum for a meal at lunch, composed by three courses at least (salad, pasta and another dish with vegetables/purée)..Yeah, surely Moscow is quite different in term of prices, by considering its huge offer's variety (it has 5 kind of supermarkets levels, e.g.) but I didn't find out it so cheap, though. I'm used to living with a lot of costs in my native city in Italy, due even to my own flat and other expenses but Moscow to me, can be compared to a NY city of the East. Russians are more lucky in that way, because they got their "крушевка" from the ex Soviet government and they bought it at a very cheap price, to renovate it then and maybe for renting it yet by earning some great sums from such a speculation. Keep on going with your channel, i'm very interested to everything about Moscow and Russia! Даваи, Россия! 💪😉🇷🇺

[@fabriziop8298]

@@ElifromRussia сеичас я тоже вернулся в Милане 😁 Но я всегда очень люблю Москву! 🇷🇺💙

[@fabriziop8298]

@@ElifromRussia Really? Зто круто! 😊😉👍

[@dsarkozi1968]

Hi Eli Living in Toronto or in a vicinity of Toronto will give a shiver 😊

[@buckmaster5552]

Eli, you are smart enough to know what your viewers want to know

[@faveladanger8490]

We measure the weight of groceries in Serbia ourselves as well! Big love from here!

[@hellyhandokopoerwo4482]

Your english is perfect. I like the way you report things. Cool

[@ghulammursaleen]

Informative video. Love from Budapest, Hungary

[@thualfiqar87]

Спасибо или Great and helpful video, can't wait to start my study in Russia

[@Jiffzzy]

I never understood why tax would not be included in some countries. As a Dutch person I was so confused, good to see you guys are nice and clear as well. XD love your videos! Compared to Amsterdam it is super cheap though, apart from maybe eating out.

[@harrisonchevy4452]

Because the store wants you to know what you pay for the food and what the government taxes you for the food.

[@franciscoespiritu9020]

I enjoy watching your videos... so many things to learn about your country

[@drisslaroussi8687]

I have already paid my tuition fees there, I will be in Russian soon 😊😊

[@malikzain601]

me too, pay today for people friendship university vet medicine

[@714ldenton]

well done Eli and enjoyed every bit of your video

[@LaLa-ck9zp]

Weighing produce has been the norm throughout the US my entire life. When I was younger, they had manual scales set up throughout the produce area of grocery stores, and you’d bag and weigh it before checking out - now the scales are digital and built into the checkout tables (including self-checkout). Really interesting that you’ve not seen that elsewhere in your travels

[@solarpoweredrainbow7591]

You’re mistaken. We weigh our produce in America ONLY IF WE WANT. The cashier is the one who weighs our produce providing the final cost.

[@michellemauk7781]

There are scales in the US for your convenience so that you will know before you get to the checkout how much something may cost, but there are no stickers to apply to your produce bag; the cashier will do the final weighing and charge you appropriately.

[@hershellacey9405]

Often the weight at the checkout tables are not accurate in favor of the supermarket.

[@RickJZ1973]

This was very interesting. Really enjoyed seeing a Russian grocery store. I will be a new subscriber.

[@Hanna-yn5ou]

Thanks for the video - I like your content! Lower prices than anywhere in the EU that I have been to... Omg, I am paying such insanely high prices and tons of taxes on food here in Sweden. 3-4 times more for the eggs (PS - It's normal in Europe to weigh vegetables and put a sticker on the bag - unless they are already pre-packaged in a bag. :) Why do you buy bottled water - is the tap water in Moscow unsafe?

[@olekscap4620]

It's not unsafe - but we prefer to filter it and boil because infrastructure is in different conditions across the country.

[@hershellacey9405]

It's usually toilet water treated at a water treatment plant with chemicals added.

[@jamesdenning1028]

I'm going to be a graduate student soon, and I plan to use my summers to visit Russia. I am very excited to learn the language and experience living there in spurts.

[@facebooksmith1269]

I live in Silicon Valley California - and $2,700 to $4,000 a month sounds really really cheap for luxurious apartment. That's the price for a cheap apartment in Silicon Valley. You guys are lucky. It sounds like a wonderful place and very affordable.

[@bjsf24]

Wow im from boston Massachusetts and 2700 to 4000 for a luxury appointment over there would be enough for maybe a one bedroom in south boston or something in the neighboring towns. You would pay 4000 for a studio accually in Boston's city.

[@lawabidingcitizen223]

In the provinces, many people receive $ 200-250 per month and half of it should be paid for utility bills. Food prices are even higher than in Moscow. Poverty and dullness.

[@lucky.one22]

keep in mind that the salaries in Russia are ten times smaller than in the US. It's cheap for you, but expensive af for ordinary russians.

[@stanspb763]

@@lucky.one22 That is not true,30% of Americans earn the federal wage or lower of $7.35/hour with no vacations no health care and need two full-time jobs to survive. The vast majority of Russians own their home free and clear and only have modest utility costs. The cost of medical care alone bankrupts millions of US families every year. After living in both the US and St Petersburg off the local economy in both Russia is much cheaper to live in and actually have savings and a social life.US wages are quoted before all the city, state, county federal taxes, property taxes, etc so take home is a lot lower than the gross salary.

[@markbd9775]

@@stanspb763 Maybe get a decent job instead of being a minimum wage slave? (Live in US)

[@gentlemane27]

Thanks. A cool idea would also be costs for sports inside and just outside Moscow. Sports like tennis, badminton maybe even basic gyms. I would so watch that. Keep up the great videos I have become a fan ❤🎉

[@ericthiel4053]

So from what I saw in the video, Russia cost of living isn't too bad. I'm retired and if I just wanted to quit my new job and live off of my pension, Russia is a place I could do quite well with it. I never knew this and will keep it in mind. Great video.

[@hershellacey9405]

In U.S. Social Security pension is not allowed in Russia.

[@ericthiel4053]

@@hershellacey9405 it's not social security. Pension from a job I retired from.

[@hershellacey9405]

That may be true but Social Security is not paid in Russia in case retirees might think they can count on it if they move there.

[@ericthiel4053]

@@hershellacey9405 it wouldn't be any payment from social security so I wouldn't use it anymore.

[@hershellacey9405]

But others might think THEY could. It isn't all about you.

[@homeyg7543]

Very cool video! I have lived in Moscow and in a few other cities of Russia. I found the video interesting but I think it would have been cool to show life in Perm or another city to give a different perspective. Excellent English too...way fewer mistakes than my Russian.))))

[@yglie]

We actually have the weighing things in South Africa, in most places there's someone there to weigh it for you!

[@tonytemple4351]

Why does someone weigh it for you? Is this to prevent stealing?

[@markkelly9095]

Nice to see one of ur earlier videos before we can say your world and my family world (my wife is russian) changed in February 2022. At same time this video and others u made before and after shows what ur channel is about and why u made it. So please I know it can be hard cause I deal with it myself, but when get trolls, just remember you a good person yourself. Just want to show world how good world is around u.

[@sebastianminney4696]

I would like to either move to Russia or live in Russia part time and start a family one day this helps alot thank you and hopefully the visa process for US Citizens will get a little easier again thank you 😁🙂🇷🇺🇺🇲

[@sebastianminney4696]

@@ElifromRussia it is but its not at the same time you have to jump through alot of hoops etc

[@bjsf24]

I applaud and really appreciate that you are coming to the states the legal way. I know its a difficult process although I have faith in you that you will secede. You go get your American dream

[@juvenalrosales6764]

We love you Elli. !!!! You are the Best !!!!

[@vijayanathanstephen9308]

I would love to visit Russia one day !

[@adamLE05401]

Putting potatoes and other vegetables/fruit on scale by yourself in supermarket is common also in central europe - Czech republic and Slovakia for instance. But depends on the supermarket, not everyone is the same.

[@notinvogue4287]

She had me at potatoes 🤩🇺🇸 why am I in such awe for Russia ? 🇷🇺🥰🥳

[@gregjohnston9287]

If the Covid situation allows, my wife and I are doing a Moscow to St Petersburg River cruise this fall. We were in St Petersburg in 2019 and loved it. Our 2020 trip was cancelled. First time on your channel. Love your hair!

[@vladimirnikolskiy]

A river cruise is the best solution you can think of. Three weeks ago, my wife and I returned from the cruise St. Petersburg - Myshkin (town on the Volga) - St. Petersburg. The eight days of travel were great. I must say right away that this is not our first trip along the rivers, this time we did not see foreign guests.

[@aramisone7198]

In many countries in Europe you have to weigh fruit and vegetables.

[@soundart1760]

True for Greece. Always weight your vegs

[@leander204]

Also in France

[@SekutLiut]

Also in Malaysia

[@Daveaaaaa]

True for Switzerland

[@tonytemple4351]

Same in the U.S. if you use the self-checkout lines.

[@pilotgirl5953]

I spent time in Moscow and Sochi. Loved both. Being Canadian, prices in Russia are much less. However it would be totally different earning money in Russia and living on it! Love your vids.

[@datadriventhinking5055]

Wow) this video is interesting even for russians) Thank you for such content

[@PopoyDominguez]

Thank you for this. Just want to add, you are very pretty by the way.

[@shuvankarsingha4183]

Love From India I & we Love Russia & Russians So Much !!! 🇮🇳❤️🇷🇺 ❤️🇮🇳❤️🇷🇺❤️🇮🇳❤️🇷🇺

[@dilipjadhav2578]

Food is cheap but can you cook in apartment or yr rooms Is Indian glossary is available

[@janisjersovs4714]

Considering free healthcare, free education and childcare, it looks good value for money to live there. In Ireland people pay 700 euros per month for single room to rent. Salary on average 2000-3000 euros per month.

[@bennyblanco14]

My rent in San Francisco,California,US was $1800 for a single bedroom...I would live like a king in russia

[@stanspb763]

That is really low for San Francisco, where in the city? I am from Marin but I have not been back to check my house in 9 years. I have lived in St Petersburg 21 years.

[@GEEKICIDALTENDENCIES]

Groceries were About $40/week Monthly transit about $ 50/month Rent 1 bedroom apartment about $ 533/month these are converted to Canadian I live in Central Canada.. i Pay... Groceries $65.week Bus pass $85/month rent is $500/month for my room.. A 1 bedroom apartment starts at $800.....Also i do not live in a major metropolis! Great video Eli...thank you!

[@Souza-cf2rk]

Parabéns, eu sigo seu canal do Brasil. 😍

[@joeskeptical4762]

*No Brasil é o português que se fala, né?* 🙂

[@sallylambert7552]

Eli your videos are great! Very informative and intertaining! Russia is definitely cheaper than St Louis, Missouri. Yes we eat a lot of potatoes because oh yum, so good. Price of food is going up fast here, its scary. Rent here varies depends on what area. A cheaper price $600 to $800 may not be in a good area. Some areas sadly at the moment have a lot of crime. Then utilities would be gas electricity, maybe sewer, water, trash, and transportation, food, health insurance and phone. Im older, on social securIty and live in senior housing with no utilities and have medicare insurance. But all prices are rising and covid has made life more difficult. I would love to visit. But im older now and i get tired. Cant walk too much. I see many places to sit, parks, street cafes on the videos of Russian cities. Many good wishes for you and your family. Thank you for the video. Bye!

[@GhanaviTVselorm]

Very useful

[@Thetequilashooter1]

Very informative video. Thank you! Many of the grocery store items and travel costs are comparable to some of the lower cost of living cities in the USA. Rent is much higher here, especially in cities like NY or San Francisco.

[@patrickmaher7941]

wow compared to Canada it is cheap to live there . loved your video . i just subbed to your channel

[@dawm12711]

It's NOT cheap to live there as an average Russian (who lives and work there) where the GDP per capita per person is among the lowest in the world (2020 - GDP per capita per person in U.S. Dollars = 9,972.50). From an outsider's or tourist perspective it is cheaper of course but to live and earn there is an ENTIRELY different story.

[@f9658]

@@dawm12711 as an Average Russian it is not expensive also, its more of a balanced cost because you have enough for your necessities and you also have enough to buy things you want. I’ve lived most of my childhood in Moscow as an average household and my dad moved to Canada back then just to make our life “above average” in Russia. My dad got a job in the financial sector in Canada and started earning about 150K+ CAD a year. Now we have a very nice house in Moscow Oblast. But I mostly stay in Canada and study here to get a job in the financial sector like dad while my parents stay back in Moscow and have fun in their retired life.

[@jasonred1258]

We also weigh our stuff and the ticket prints out. if you forgot, the cashier mostly remembers all the codes and weighs at the cashier station too, no problem. In the automated cashier check out, you can select the items from the screen or start to type the name and select the picture or name. All these have the weigh, scan built in.

[@637mathias]

In Sweden we are weight vegetables and put on a price tag. Also Sweden and every European countries I visited have tax included so you don't get surprised then you pay. Would it not be great if Russia and Ukraine becomes part of EU, so peace will be permanent and also easier to travel. Russia could earn a lot on tourism... only problem is the invasion of Ukraine.

[@ulbert11]

Ошибаетесь. Единственная проблема в том что ЕС отказался принимать Россию. Говорят что ссср развалили именно поэтому : что бы росси, Украина, Беларусь, и вся западная Европа стали частью ЕС. И таким образом они хотели противостоять США. Поэтому Россия не сильно возражала против расширения НАТО, не смотря на то что это было договорённостью. Зачем, если Россия и так собиралась вступать в ЕС ? Чего ей бояться? Но в 2008 году ЕС дал уже ответ: если Россия и будет принята, то только по частям. На это уже никто согласен не был. Никто не хотел снова проходить через тот ужас который прошла Россия в 90е. В результате Россия в ЕС не вошла. Но получила разрушительные последствия развала СССР. И сейчас можно было бы всего этого избежать, если бы соблюдали минские соглашения.

[@mariahsmom9457]

Finland has same practice of weighing produce. I found out the hard way and got sent back to do it while everyone else checked out and I got back in line. 😄

[@exilover1]

First time i see your video's , i like it. So i now more about Russia ! Thank you for sharing them with us ;-)

[@YMT_N_Oro]

I'm surprised, even living in the most expensive russian city seems reasonable in comparison to other countries's "elite" cities and neighborhoods. I always loved Krasnoyarsk and it is getting more tempting by the day 😂😂.

[@soulextinguisher]

It's because they make less money technically

[@mariahsmom9457]

I encountered the same fruit and vegetable weighing process in Finland. I had never seen it before and got to the check out without weighing my groceries or getting the stickers.

[@aysyluionova5636]

Во Франции тоже взвешивать надо фрукты и овощи)

[@ericgorder1]

Hi Elina. My name is Eric. Thanks for the video!

[@jebbroham1776]

Damn, I could live like a king on my monthly income if I lived in Russia!

[@CJ-nj2dm]

Ha nice comment 🧐

[@wingy200]

Most expensive place I've lived was in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. My two bedroom apartment was $1400 per month back in 2006. I'm sure it's much more expensive now, after factoring for inflation.

[@therealmcgoy4968]

In America the price only changes on groceries if your a “member” 😂

[@m1a1abrams93]

and if you buy a non grocery item. lol

[@crescentprincekronos2518]

Very nice. I enjoyed the video. Москва Сити looks very interesting and luxurious. My new favorite vlog along with yeah russia.

[@ethanyfrach1966]

Lmao In my country It is extreamly expensive to live in sky scrapers the prices in russia is ver very cheap.

[@ethanyfrach1966]

Oh ok what are the salaries I’m thinking of moving there?

[@twi-a]

@@ethanyfrach1966 1200$ avrg in Moscow

[@josedosanjos2200]

Nice post ! Thanks for sharing this.

[@JonJonUptown]

Way cheap. I could live much nicer in Russia than USA

[@peonyblossom1800]

Not really, the wage/ salaries are low.... unless you’re retired?

[@stanspb763]

@@peonyblossom1800 Yes, median family net worth of Russian families is about $10,000 more than Americans because the bottom 60% in the US have no savings or positive worth. It is hard to compare because everything costs a lot in the US as extra-cost services. My sister pays $240 a month for internet and cable TV from Comcast. I pay $6 for much faster-unmetered fiber optic. internet and if I wanted 178 channels of TV it would be $2 more. She pays She pays $780a month for health insurance with $4000 deductible. I pay $5/month for unlimited calls and 8 gig of data for my phone and she pay $85/month for 1/2 the data. She has about 100 bills to be paid a month for basic living expenses. I have one bill for all utilities and cleaning, maintenance etc. No medical costs, no car costs. Wages are not as low as you think, in the US 1/3 makes less than the federal minimum wage of $7.35/hour and no paid vacations. It is easy to live debt-free in Russia and almost impossible in the US not to be in debt. Everyone in the US is one medical problem away from bankruptcy. Lab tests that are $20 in Russia are $2400! A birth is $50,000 in the US and free in Russia and in fact the new family is given a years worth of income for the child.. Few Russians even could understand the stress American families are in and only see $80k uppwe income salaries and imagine that is all free pocket money. A family for 4 on $80k in the US ha a pretty limited life and are in debt and that is 3 times what 1/3rd the population lives on. That $80k is before taxes. So a street musician here in Russia can have more savings than an upper-middle-class American with a high-paying job. After living in both countries there is no question which offers the, most quality of life.

[@Hybridhuman100]

Now I found a real Russian Vlogger, keep your vids coming.

[@krisitak]

Woooow. Great video! Russian influence is still super strong in Bulgaria because everything is exactly the same as you showed us! We must weight products in the super market too :D