Is Moscow more expensive than Saint Petersburg?

Moscow is 65.6% more expensive than Saint Petersburg overall. Rent is 87.6% higher, groceries 18.2% more expensive, and restaurants 22.1% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Saint Petersburg or Moscow?

Saint Petersburg has a purchasing power index of 72.4 while Moscow has 77.2 (NYC = 100). Moscow offers better purchasing power.

Saint Petersburg vs Moscow: Moscow is 65.6% more expensive, rent 88% higher (2026)

Category	🇷🇺 Saint Petersburg	🇷🇺 Moscow	Difference
Cost of Living	24.1	39.9	+65.6%
Rent	17.0	31.9	+87.6%
Groceries	39.0	46.1	+18.2%
Restaurants	42.1	51.4	+22.1%
Purchasing Power	72.4	77.2	+6.6%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Explore

🇷🇺 Cost of Living in Saint Petersburg

Explore

🇷🇺 Cost of Living in Moscow

Explore

🇷🇺 Should I Move to Saint Petersburg?

Explore

🇷🇺 Should I Move to Moscow?

🇷🇺 Saint Petersburg vs 🇷🇺 Moscow

Add your salary for a personalized comparison