MoscowvsBuenos Aires
Overall
💰-20.0%
Moscow is 20.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-28.6%
Housing is 28.6% lower
Dining
🍽️-36.4%
Restaurants 36.4% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-15.6%
Food shopping 15.6% less
Comparing the cost of living between Moscow, Russia and Buenos Aires, Argentina reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Moscow is more affordable than Buenos Aires by approximately 20.0%. 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 higher than in Buenos Aires by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Moscow's city center costs around RUB 80,000, while the same in Buenos Aires is approximately ARS 400,000.
Dining out in Moscow is notably more expensive compared to Buenos Aires. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs RUB 600 in Moscow versus ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires.
Public transportation in Moscow is more expensive, with monthly passes at RUB 2,700 compared to ARS 2,500 in Buenos Aires.
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 Moscow is more expensive by approximately 18%. 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 Moscow can expect to spend approximately RUB 23,560 per month (excluding rent), while in Buenos Aires, the same lifestyle would cost around ARS 101,900. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about RUB 82,460 monthly in Moscow versus ARS 356,650 in Buenos Aires. 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 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
Moscow
Buenos Aires
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Moscow more expensive than Buenos Aires?
No, Moscow is approximately 20.0% cheaper than Buenos Aires. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Moscow compared to Buenos Aires?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 83% of your Buenos Aires salary when living in Moscow. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Buenos Aires, you'd need about $41,667 in Moscow for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Moscow and Buenos Aires?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 57%, 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 Moscow if you prioritize earning potential, or Buenos Aires for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Moscow vs Buenos Aires?
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 Buenos Aires, these figures are ARS 401,900 for singles and ARS 956,650 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Moscow and Buenos Aires 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Buenos Aires to maintain your lifestyle from Moscow
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