BeijingvsMoscow
Overall
💰-19.4%
Beijing is 19.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-30.0%
Housing is 30.0% lower
Dining
🍽️+31.0%
Restaurants 31.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒-30.8%
Food shopping 30.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Beijing, China and Moscow, Russia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Beijing is more affordable than Moscow by approximately 19.4%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Beijing are higher than in Moscow by 43%. A one-bedroom apartment in Beijing's city center costs around CN¥7,500, while the same in Moscow is approximately RUB 80,000.
Dining out in Beijing offers significant savings compared to Moscow. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CN¥30 in Beijing versus RUB 600 in Moscow.
Public transportation in Beijing is more affordable, with monthly passes at CN¥200 compared to RUB 2,700 in Moscow.
Purchasing power in Beijing is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Moscow.
Grocery shopping in Beijing is more expensive by approximately 44%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Beijing can expect to spend approximately CN¥1,746 per month (excluding rent), while in Moscow, the same lifestyle would cost around RUB 23,560. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CN¥6,111 monthly in Beijing versus RUB 82,460 in Moscow. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Moscow to Beijing, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Beijing to Moscow requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Beijing
Moscow
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beijing more expensive than Moscow?
No, Beijing is approximately 19.4% cheaper than Moscow. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Beijing compared to Moscow?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 84% of your Moscow salary when living in Beijing. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Moscow, you'd need about $41,892 in Beijing for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Beijing and Moscow?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 44%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Beijing offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Beijing provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Beijing if you prioritize earning potential, or Moscow for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Beijing vs Moscow?
In Beijing, a single person needs approximately CN¥5,746 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CN¥15,111. In Moscow, these figures are RUB 68,560 for singles and RUB 167,460 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Beijing and Moscow in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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