Cost Comparison 2025

MoscowvsAuckland

Russia
New Zealand

Overall

💰

+56.0%

Moscow is 56.0%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+85.7%

Housing is 85.7% higher

Dining

🍽️

+41.8%

Restaurants 41.8% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+77.8%

Food shopping 77.8% more

Comparing the cost of living between Moscow, Russia and Auckland, New Zealand reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Moscow is more expensive than Auckland by approximately 56.0%. 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 Moscow are lower than in Auckland by 46%. A one-bedroom apartment in Moscow's city center costs around RUB 80,000, while the same in Auckland is approximately NZ$2,400.

Dining out in Moscow offers significant savings compared to Auckland. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs RUB 600 in Moscow versus NZ$25 in Auckland.

Public transportation in Moscow is more expensive, with monthly passes at RUB 2,700 compared to NZ$215 in Auckland.

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

Grocery shopping in Moscow is more affordable by approximately 44%. 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 Moscow can expect to spend approximately RUB 23,560 per month (excluding rent), while in Auckland, the same lifestyle would cost around NZ$893. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about RUB 82,460 monthly in Moscow versus NZ$3,126 in Auckland. 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
Moscow, Russia
Auckland, New Zealand

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
RUB 80,000
NZ$2,400
1BR Outside Center
RUB 45,000
NZ$1,900
3BR City Center
RUB 150,000
NZ$4,200

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
RUB 600
NZ$25
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
RUB 3,000
NZ$120
Cappuccino
RUB 200
NZ$6
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
RUB 200
NZ$12

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
RUB 90
NZ$3
Bread (500g)
RUB 45
NZ$3
Eggs (12)
RUB 120
NZ$6
Cheese (1kg)
RUB 700
NZ$13

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
RUB 60
NZ$4
Monthly Pass
RUB 2,700
NZ$215
Taxi Start
RUB 150
NZ$5
Gasoline (1L)
RUB 55
NZ$3

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
RUB 8,000
NZ$170
Internet (60 Mbps)
RUB 600
NZ$85
Mobile Minute
RUB 3
NZ$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Moscow to Auckland, 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 Auckland 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

Moscow

Cost of Living Index50
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index50

Auckland

Cost of Living Index78
Rent Index65
Purchasing Power Index88

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Moscow more expensive than Auckland?

Yes, Moscow is approximately 56.0% more expensive than Auckland overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Moscow compared to Auckland?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.6x of your Auckland salary when living in Moscow. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Auckland, you'd need about $78,000 in Moscow for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Moscow and Auckland?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 46%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

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

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Moscow vs Auckland?

In Moscow, a single person needs approximately RUB 68,560 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about RUB 167,460. In Auckland, these figures are NZ$2,793 for singles and NZ$6,326 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Moscow and Auckland 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 Auckland to maintain your lifestyle from Moscow

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers