How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Moscow? | Easy Russian 85

Summary

The video script explores the financial realities of living in Moscow, with interviews revealing that a comfortable living wage ranges from 250,000 to 1,300,000 rubles annually. It delves into what Moscow residents consider necessities and luxuries, and how they would cut back if needed. Official statistics from Rosstat are mentioned, showing average salaries in Russia and Moscow, which are higher but still a point of contention. The video also touches on the high cost of living, particularly housing, and the aspirations of Muscovites, including the desire for travel and material possessions, all within the context of economic constraints.

Takeaways

• 💼 The average salary in Moscow is significantly higher than the national average, with 2022 figures suggesting around 120,000 RUB or 1,200 EUR, and 2023 estimates at 140,000 RUB or 1,400 EUR.
• 🏙️ Many Muscovites believe that a comfortable living wage in Moscow is around 25,000 to 30,000 RUB, while some suggest needing up to 13,000 EUR for a stable lifestyle.
• 💰 The script highlights the disparity between official statistics and the actual living conditions of residents, with some skepticism towards the optimism of Russian official data.
• 🏠 The high cost of living in Moscow, particularly housing, is a common concern, with the average price of an apartment starting from 100,000 EUR.
• 🛍️ People are willing to cut back on non-essentials like Apple products, coffee shops, and cabs to save money, indicating areas where Muscovites might adjust their spending.
• 💬 The script includes a range of opinions from residents on what they would sacrifice first if they had to economize, reflecting different lifestyles and priorities.
• 🌐 The desire to move to Moscow is driven by higher salaries and opportunities, but it also leads to a negative perception of Muscovites in other regions of Russia.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The script touches on the Soviet-era anecdote about the average, highlighting the difference between individual experiences and statistical averages.
• 🎓 The interviewees represent a variety of professions, from sales to television, indicating the diversity of the workforce in Moscow.
• 🌟 The video script also promotes educational materials and a discussion club for language learners, suggesting additional resources for those interested in Russian language and culture.

Q & A

What is the approximate average salary in Moscow according to the Russian statistics service?

According to the Russian statistics service, the average salary in Moscow in 2022 was a little over 120,000 rubles, which is approximately 1,200 euros, and in 2023, it was 140,000 rubles or 1,400 euros.

What is the general perception of the cost of living in Moscow among the people interviewed in the script?

The general perception is that to live comfortably in Moscow, one might need a salary of around 25,000 to 30,000 rubles, with some suggesting that 13,000 rubles could be enough to comfortably exist.

What are some of the items or services that people are willing to forgo to save money, as mentioned in the script?

People might consider giving up luxury items like iPhones, eating out at cafes, taking taxis, and non-essential food items like sweets to save money.

What is the typical reaction of the interviewees when asked if they are satisfied with their income?

The reactions vary, with some expressing satisfaction with their income, while others indicate they are not satisfied, and some are neutral, stating they are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied.

What is the significance of the phrase 'to live comfortably' in the context of the script?

In the context of the script, 'to live comfortably' refers to having enough income to cover basic needs and some luxuries without financial stress, which is estimated to be around 25,000 to 30,000 rubles per month.

What are the official statistics regarding the average salary in Russia and Moscow for the years mentioned in the script?

The official statistics from the Russian statistics service indicate that the average salary in Russia in 2022 was 65,000 rubles (approximately 650 euros), and in 2023, it was 70,000 rubles (approximately 700 euros). In Moscow, the average salary was over 120,000 rubles (over 1,200 euros) in 2022 and 140,000 rubles (1,400 euros) in 2023.

What is the general sentiment about the reliability of official Russian statistics as expressed in the script?

The script expresses skepticism about the reliability of official Russian statistics, suggesting that they might be more optimistic than the actual situation.

What are some of the dreams or desires that people in Moscow have, as mentioned in the script?

Some of the desires mentioned include owning property in Moscow, traveling more, buying a car, and purchasing a camera for a person who is an operator.

What is the significance of the quote from Bulgakov's 'The Master and Margarita' in the context of the script?

The quote from Bulgakov's 'The Master and Margarita' about the housing issue reflects the ongoing struggle that many people face in affording housing in Moscow, which has become increasingly expensive.

What is the 'thirty-day Challenge' mentioned in the script, and how can people participate?

The 'thirty-day Challenge' is an initiative by the creators of the script to engage with their audience, likely involving a series of tasks or activities over thirty days. People can participate by following the link in the video description and subscribing to their channel.

What additional benefits do the creators of the script offer to their paid subscribers?

Paid subscribers are offered numerous educational materials, including video lessons and weekly podcasts, as well as access to a discussion club for literary discussions and additional materials for learning Russian.