Cost Comparison 2025

Buenos AiresvsMoscow

Argentina
Russia

Overall

šŸ’°

+25.0%

Buenos Aires is 25.0%more expensive

Rent

šŸ 

+40.0%

Housing is 40.0% higher

Dining

šŸ½ļø

+57.1%

Restaurants 57.1% pricier

Groceries

šŸ›’

+18.4%

Food shopping 18.4% more

Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Moscow, Russia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Moscow by approximately 25.0%. 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 Buenos Aires are lower than in Moscow by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARSĀ 400,000, while the same in Moscow is approximately RUBĀ 80,000.

Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Moscow. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARSĀ 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus RUBĀ 600 in Moscow.

Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more affordable, with monthly passes at ARSĀ 2,500 compared to RUBĀ 2,700 in Moscow.

Purchasing power in Moscow is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.

Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 16%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARSĀ 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Moscow, the same lifestyle would cost around RUBĀ 23,560. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARSĀ 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus RUBĀ 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

Item
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Moscow, Russia

šŸ  Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
ARSĀ 400,000
RUBĀ 80,000
1BR Outside Center
ARSĀ 300,000
RUBĀ 45,000
3BR City Center
ARSĀ 800,000
RUBĀ 150,000

šŸ½ļø Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
ARSĀ 4,000
RUBĀ 600
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
ARSĀ 20,000
RUBĀ 3,000
Cappuccino
ARSĀ 1,200
RUBĀ 200
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
ARSĀ 1,500
RUBĀ 200

šŸ›’ Groceries

Milk (1L)
ARSĀ 500
RUBĀ 90
Bread (500g)
ARSĀ 600
RUBĀ 45
Eggs (12)
ARSĀ 1,000
RUBĀ 120
Cheese (1kg)
ARSĀ 5,000
RUBĀ 700

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
ARSĀ 50
RUBĀ 60
Monthly Pass
ARSĀ 2,500
RUBĀ 2,700
Taxi Start
ARSĀ 600
RUBĀ 150
Gasoline (1L)
ARSĀ 400
RUBĀ 55

šŸ’” Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
ARSĀ 15,000
RUBĀ 8,000
Internet (60 Mbps)
ARSĀ 6,000
RUBĀ 600
Mobile Minute
ARSĀ 10
RUBĀ 3

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Buenos Aires to Moscow, 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 Moscow to Buenos Aires 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

Buenos Aires

Cost of Living Index40
Rent Index25
Purchasing Power Index30

Moscow

Cost of Living Index50
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index50

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Moscow?

Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 25.0% more expensive than Moscow overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Moscow?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Moscow salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Moscow, you'd need about $62,500 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Moscow?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 36%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Moscow offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Moscow provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Moscow for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Moscow?

In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARSĀ 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARSĀ 956,650. In Moscow, these figures are RUBĀ 68,560 for singles and RUBĀ 167,460 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Moscow in 2025 shows significant 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.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Moscow to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers