Cost of Living in Russia: Monthly Expenses for Students in 2025

Do you know?   Rent in Russia is, on average, 182% higher than in India.  Planning to study or live in Russia? Understanding the cost of living in Russia is essential for students and expats who want to budget effectively and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

The cost of living in Russia is relatively affordable for international students compared to other European destinations. On average, students spend between RUB 50,000 and 80,000 (₹55,000–₹89,000) per month Studying in Russia, covering essentials such as accommodation, food, utilities, and transport. While cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg have higher rent and living expenses, smaller towns such as Kazan or Tomsk offer a much lower average cost of living in Russia per month, making them ideal for budget-conscious students. 

In this guide, you’ll read more about the cost of living in Russia for Indian and international students, including detailed breakdowns of cost monthly expenses, accommodation prices, grocery and transportation costs, utility bills, city-wise comparisons, and useful budgeting tips for 2025. 

Thinking about Why Study in Russia? The reasons are quite convincing! Read the Guide!

Overview of the Cost of Living in Russia

The overall cost of living in Russia for students largely depends on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices. International students can expect to spend anywhere between RUB 50,000 and 80,000 (₹55,000–₹89,000) per month, which includes accommodation, meals, transport, and utilities. Larger metropolitan areas such as Moscow and St. Petersburg have higher rental and food expenses, while mid-sized cities like Tomsk or Kazan offer more affordable living conditions. 

Most universities in Russia are located in urban centers, where students often balance between comfort and affordability. Rent remains the highest expense, followed by groceries and commuting costs. Those living in dormitories or shared apartments tend to save significantly compared to students renting private flats. Below is a breakdown of typical monthly expenses in Russia for 2025. 

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (RUB)	Equivalent in INR
Accommodation	25,000–40,000	₹27,750–₹44,400
Food & Groceries	12,000–18,000	₹13,320–₹19,980
Transportation	2,000–3,000	₹2,220–₹3,330
Utilities & Internet	4,000–6,000	₹4,440–₹6,660
Miscellaneous	6,000–10,000	₹6,660–₹11,100

In total, students studying in major cities typically spend around RUB 70,000 (₹77,700) each month, while those in smaller university towns manage comfortably at about RUB 55,000 (₹61,050). It’s worth noting that Russia’s public universities often provide subsidised dormitory housing and meal options, further reducing overall living costs. 

When compared to Western Europe or North America, Russia offers a far more economical lifestyle without compromising on education quality or infrastructure. Students benefit from affordable public transport, student discounts, and low-cost food markets, which help keep the average cost of living in Russia for international students within reach. 

Overall, careful budgeting and smart spending choices can make living in Russia both manageable and rewarding for Indian students planning to study abroad in 2025. 

Accommodation Costs in Russia

Accommodation takes up the largest share of a student’s monthly budget. Choices range from university dormitories to private apartments and shared flats. Your city, proximity to campus, and choice of amenities will determine how much you pay. This section breaks down typical housing options, cost ranges, and practical tips to find affordable student housing in Russia in 2025. 

University Dormitories 

University dormitories are the most affordable housing option for students. They usually cost RUB 10,000–20,000 (₹11,100–₹22,200) per month. Basic utilities are often included. Rooms may be shared. Many universities offer canteens or subsidised meal plans. Dorms are convenient because they are close to campus and student services. The trade-off is less privacy and simpler facilities. 

Practical points: 

• Apply early through the university housing office. 
• Expect communal kitchens and shared bathrooms in lower-cost dorms. 
• Dorms often require a refundable deposit. 
• Student dorms help lower the overall cost of living in Russia per month significantly. 

Private Apartments 

Private apartments give more comfort and privacy. A one-bedroom apartment rent ranges from RUB 25,000–50,000 (₹27,750–₹55,500) per month, depending on city and location. Central locations in Moscow and St. Petersburg command higher rents. Private rentals usually mean separate utility bills. Furnished units are common but may cost more. 

Quick guidance: 

• Check the distance to your university and public transport links. 
• Factor in utilities and internet when calculating monthly costs. 
• Short-term leases can be expensive. Aim for a student-friendly lease term. 
• Use trusted platforms or university notice boards to avoid scams. 

Shared Accommodation 

Shared flats or rooms in shared apartments are popular among students. Typical costs are RUB 15,000–25,000 (₹16,650–₹27,750) per month per person. Shared housing balances cost and comfort. It offers more privacy than dorms and is cheaper than a private one-bedroom. 

Shared living tips: 

• Clarify bills splitting rules before moving in. 
• Meet potential flatmates in person or via a university student group. 
• Shared places close to metro stations save commuting time and money. 

Housing Cost Table

The cost of student housing in Russia varies based on the city, university, and type of accommodation. On average, international students spend between RUB 10,000 and 25,000 per month, which is approximately ₹11,000 to ₹27,700, as shown in the table below. 

Housing Type	Monthly Cost (RUB)	Equivalent (INR)
University dormitory	10,000–20,000	₹11,100–₹22,200
Shared accommodation	15,000–25,000	₹16,650–₹27,750
Private 1BHK apartment	25,000–50,000	₹27,750–₹55,500

How to Reduce Accommodation Costs?

Rent is usually the single biggest element of the average cost of living in Russia. Picking the right housing option can reduce monthly expenses by a large margin. Here are a few ways how you can try reducing the accommodation costs: 

• Choose university dorms for the lowest rent. 
• Share a flat with 1–3 students to split rent and utilities. 
• Live slightly outside the city center and use public transport. 
• Ask your university about partner housing and verified listings.

Food and Grocery Expenses 

Food in Russia is affordable for students, especially if you prefer home-cooked meals over frequent dining out. On average, a student spends RUB 12,000–18,000 (₹13,320–₹19,980) per month on groceries and meals. Prices vary slightly by city, but most essentials like milk, rice, bread, and vegetables are reasonably priced across the country. Those living in dormitories or shared apartments often cook together, helping reduce monthly expenses further. 

Grocery Costs in Russia 

Cooking at home remains the best way to manage the cost of living in Russia per month. Supermarkets like Pyaterochka, Magnit, and Auchan offer affordable options for fresh produce, dairy, and packaged food. Local markets also provide seasonal fruits and vegetables at lower prices. Below is a list of common grocery items and their average prices in 2025. 

Item	Average Price (RUB)	Equivalent (INR)
Milk (1 litre)	80	₹89
Bread (loaf)	60	₹67
Rice (1 kg)	120	₹133
Chicken (1 kg)	350	₹389
Meal at local restaurant	600–800	₹666–₹888

Most students prefer shopping weekly to keep track of spending and avoid food waste. Imported goods tend to be more expensive, so choosing local brands can keep costs low. If you enjoy Indian cuisine, many Russian cities have Indian grocery stores and online platforms that deliver spices, grains, and other essentials at reasonable rates. 

Eating Out and Meal Plans 

Dining out occasionally won’t strain your budget if done moderately. A meal at an affordable restaurant costs around RUB 600–800 (₹666–₹888), while fast-food outlets may charge less. University cafeterias offer student meal plans starting from RUB 3,000–4,000 (₹3,330–₹4,440) per month for daily lunch and dinner. 

Tips to save on food expenses: 

• Buy groceries in bulk and split costs with roommates. 
• Cook at home at least 5 days a week. 
• Take advantage of university cafeterias and student discounts. 
• Track monthly grocery spending to stay within your budget. 

In summary, food and grocery prices make up a manageable portion of the average cost of living in Russia for Indian students, allowing you to enjoy nutritious meals without overspending. 

Transportation and Utilities 

Transportation and utilities form an essential part of the cost of living in Russia for international students, but they are quite affordable compared to other European countries. Public transport systems in most Russian cities are reliable, efficient, and budget-friendly. Meanwhile, utility costs such as electricity, water, and internet depend on the type of accommodation and city of residence. On average, students spend RUB 6,000–9,000 (₹6,660–₹9,990) per month on these combined expenses. 

Transportation Costs in Russia 

Russian cities have well-developed networks of buses, trams, and metros. Students often use monthly public transport passes to save money. These typically cost between RUB 1,500 and 2,500 (₹1,665–₹2,775), giving unlimited rides within city limits. Moscow and St. Petersburg also offer student discount cards and metro passes for reduced fares. Smaller cities like Tomsk and Kazan are compact enough to allow for cycling or walking to campus. 

Tips to save on transportation: 

• Apply for a student metro or bus card for discounted fares. 
• Use ride-sharing apps only when necessary. 
• Opt for housing near your university to cut down on travel time and costs. 

Utility and Internet Expenses 

Monthly utility bills generally include electricity, heating, water, and gas. Costs vary depending on the city and housing type. Students living in university dorms often have these utilities included in rent, while private apartments require separate payments. Internet and mobile data services are widely available and competitively priced. 

Expense Type	Monthly Cost (RUB)	Equivalent (INR)
Public Transport Pass	1,500–2,500	₹1,665–₹2,775
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water)	3,000–5,000	₹3,330–₹5,550
Internet & Mobile	800–1,200	₹888–₹1,332

Utility-saving suggestions: 

• Turn off lights and heating when not in use. 
• Use shared laundry facilities in dormitories. 
• Choose budget mobile plans with student discounts. 

For Indian students managing the average cost of living in Russia, combining public transport with energy-efficient habits can help keep total monthly expenses under control. 

Russian Universities are considered best in providing good quality medical education in budget. Explore MBBS from Russia in 2025. 

City-Wise Cost Comparison 

The cost of living in Russia can differ significantly depending on the city you choose to study in. Major urban centres like Moscow and St. Petersburg are naturally more expensive due to higher rent, transport fares, and dining costs. In contrast, cities such as Kazan and Tomsk offer a more affordable lifestyle while maintaining good academic infrastructure and student facilities. Understanding these variations helps international students plan their monthly budgets effectively before moving to Russia. 

Average Monthly Costs by City

Here’s a comparison of average living expenses for students across popular Russian study destinations: 

City	Average Monthly Cost (RUB)	Equivalent in INR (Approx.)
Moscow (student budget)	25,000 – 35,000 RUB	₹27,750 – ₹38,850
Moscow (private housing)	50,000 – 70,000 RUB	₹55,500 – ₹77,700
Tomsk	50,000 – 60,000 RUB (includes rent ~10,000 – 20,000 RUB)	₹55,500 – ₹66,600
Kazan	50,000 – 55,000 RUB	₹55,500 – ₹61,050

Breakdown and Analysis

• Moscow: As Russia’s capital, Moscow has the highest living costs. Rent and dining are expensive, though student transport passes and canteen meals help balance expenses. 
• St. Petersburg: Slightly cheaper than Moscow, this cultural hub offers quality student life and affordable public transport. 
• Kazan: Known for its large student population and safety, Kazan offers a moderate cost of living in Russia for Indian students, with reasonable accommodation and food costs. 
• Tomsk: One of the most budget-friendly university towns, Tomsk’s smaller size and low rent make it ideal for those looking to manage expenses efficiently. 

Key Observations 

• Choosing a smaller city can reduce your total monthly cost by up to 30–40% compared to Moscow. 
• Students studying outside major metros spend less on entertainment, transportation, and accommodation. 
• Public services and student discounts are equally accessible in smaller cities, ensuring comfort without added expense. 

For students planning long-term study programs, comparing city-wise costs is essential to determine where the average cost of living in Russia per month aligns best with their financial goals and lifestyle preferences. 

Budgeting Tips for Students

Managing your budget wisely can make a huge difference to your overall cost of living in Russia. Many international students save substantially by making smart daily choices — from housing to transport and meals. Since the average cost of living in Russia per month can range between RUB 50,000 and 80,000 (₹55,000–₹89,000), keeping track of expenses ensures you stay within your budget while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. 

Quick Tips to Save More

By adopting these simple habits, students can easily bring down their monthly living expenses to RUB 50,000–60,000 (₹55,000–₹66,600) without compromising comfort or experience. 

Expense Area	Budgeting Tip	Impact on Savings
Accommodation	Choose universities offering on-campus dorms or shared rooms.	Saves up to 50% on rent.
Food	Cook meals instead of dining out. Buy groceries from local markets.	Reduces food costs by 30–40%.
Transportation	Use student metro cards and public transport instead of taxis.	Cuts travel expenses by nearly 60%.
Utilities & Internet	Split bills with roommates and choose student mobile plans.	Saves around RUB 1,000–2,000 monthly.
Budget Tracking	Maintain a monthly expense tracker via apps like Wallet or Mint.	Keeps spending under control.

Tip: Many universities and city transport systems in Russia offer student discounts on passes, meals, and even cultural events, helping reduce monthly spending further. 

Comparison – Cost of Living in Russia vs India 

When comparing the cost of living in Russia vs India, Russia is slightly more expensive overall but still much cheaper than most Western countries. The difference is mainly due to higher rent and transportation costs in major Russian cities like Moscow or Saint Petersburg. However, day-to-day expenses such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare remain reasonably affordable. 

Below is a quick comparison between both countries based on 2025 averages: 

Parameter	Russia (RUB / ₹)	India (₹)
Average Monthly Cost	RUB 65,000 (₹71,500)	₹55,000
Rent (1BHK Apartment)	RUB 30,000 (₹33,300)	₹20,000
Meal at Restaurant	RUB 700 (₹777)	₹500
Transport Pass (Monthly)	RUB 2,000 (₹2,220)	₹1,000

While Russia’s living costs are around 20–30% higher than India’s, students benefit from extensive discounts on accommodation, metro passes, and campus facilities. Smaller Russian cities such as Kazan or Novosibirsk can be even more economical than metropolitan areas in India. 

Conclusion

The cost of living in Russia for international students in 2025 typically ranges between RUB 50,000–80,000 (₹55,000–₹89,000) per month. This includes rent, food, transport, and other basic expenses. While Moscow and St. Petersburg are slightly more expensive due to higher housing and travel costs, regional cities like Kazan, Tomsk, and Novosibirsk offer more budget-friendly living options without compromising on education quality. 

Careful budgeting, cooking at home, and choosing on-campus accommodation can help students manage expenses effectively. Overall, Russia remains one of the most affordable European study destinations. 

To explore university options and get personalised guidance on studying in Russia, connect with UpGrad’s Study Abroad experts and start planning your academic journey today.