How does the cost of living in Russia compare with India for me as an Indian student?
Russia can be more expensive than India for many everyday expenses, although the actual difference depends on city and lifestyle. Comparison figures put overall living costs around 106.2 percent higher and rent around 212.8 percent higher. Choosing shared or university accommodation can reduce your biggest expense.
Russia can be more expensive than India for several everyday expenses, though the gap depends on your city and lifestyle. Comparison figures show overall living costs around 106.2 percent higher and rent around 212.8 percent higher. These numbers shift as prices and exchange rates change.
Price Comparison: Russia and India
| Item | Russia (RUB) | India (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | 500 to 1,700 (approx INR 578 to 1,964) | INR 150 to 400 |
| Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | 2,499 to 6,000 (approx INR 2,887 to 6,931) | INR 800 to 2,500 |
| Monthly public transport pass | 1,450 to 4,489 (approx INR 1,675 to 5,185) | INR 500 to 2,000 |
| Milk (1 litre) | 75 to 132 (approx INR 87 to 152) | INR 55 to 75 |
| Eggs (12) | 78 to 180 (approx INR 90 to 208) | INR 70 to 120 |
| 1BHK in the city centre | 30,000 to 118,700 (approx INR 34,653 to 1.37 L) | INR 10,000 to 30,000 |
| Basic utilities (monthly) | 7,556 to 17,000 (approx INR 8,728 to 19,637) | INR 2,000 to 5,000 |
Housing Makes the Difference
For Indian students, accommodation usually has the biggest effect on the final monthly budget. A shared apartment or university accommodation can help reduce this expense.
My Advice
Decide on housing before you finalise your budget, since it moves your totals more than any other category. Ask the university about its accommodation options and compare them with the open market.
How much will a month abroad cost you?
Rent, food and travel. A real monthly budget, city by city.
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