Which Russian cities are the most expensive for an international student like me?
Moscow has the highest cost of living among Russian cities, based on city data from July 2026, followed by Kaliningrad and Saint Petersburg. Regional cities such as Perm and Novosibirsk generally cost less. Estimated everyday monthly costs in Moscow run around RUB 55,000 to 65,000, excluding rent.
Moscow is the most expensive Russian city for living costs, followed by Kaliningrad and Saint Petersburg, according to July 2026 city data. Regional cities such as Perm and Novosibirsk generally have lower costs. Costs vary considerably between cities.
Cost of Living by City
| City | Cost of Living Index | Estimated monthly everyday cost, excluding rent (RUB) |
|---|---|---|
| Moscow | 49.9 | 55,000 to 65,000 (approx INR 63,531 to 75,082) |
| Kaliningrad | 43.2 | 50,000 to 60,000 (approx INR 57,755 to 69,306) |
| Saint Petersburg | 42.4 | 48,000 to 58,000 (approx INR 55,445 to 66,996) |
| Novosibirsk | 37.7 | 43,000 to 53,000 (approx INR 49,669 to 61,220) |
How to Read These Figures
The index ranks each city, and the monthly estimate covers everyday expenses without rent. Your actual spending depends on accommodation, lifestyle and personal needs.
Smaller regional cities can reduce your costs noticeably compared with Moscow.
My Advice
If cost matters to you, compare the monthly totals of each city, including rent, before you choose a university. Moscow offers a lot, but a regional city could stretch your budget further.
How much will a month abroad cost you?
Rent, food and travel. A real monthly budget, city by city.
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