Frequently Asked Questions about Moscow

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area's volatile political situation.

Many expats moving to Moscow have similar questions about how they will adapt to life in the Russian capital. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about expat life in Moscow.

What is the cost of living in Moscow?

The cost of living in Moscow depends heavily on what kind of lifestyle an expat leads. In general, Moscow is more expensive than any other place in Russia, and some prices, particularly those of accommodation, can be high. That said, expats can live a comfortable life in Moscow if they are willing to live like the locals. Cooking at home most nights of the week is one sure way expats can save money.

Does a person need to learn Russian before moving to Moscow?

Yes, this is an extremely good idea. It is best to learn some basic Russian, and at least to know how to read the Cyrillic alphabet before arriving. Grammar is quite complicated and it can take some time to master the language.