Cost Comparison 2025

MoscowvsDoha

Russia
Qatar

Overall

💰

+30.0%

Moscow is 30.0%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+57.1%

Housing is 57.1% higher

Dining

🍽️

+18.2%

Restaurants 18.2% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+33.3%

Food shopping 33.3% more

Comparing the cost of living between Moscow, Russia and Doha, Qatar reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Moscow is more expensive than Doha by approximately 30.0%. 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 Doha by 36%. A one-bedroom apartment in Moscow's city center costs around RUB 80,000, while the same in Doha is approximately QAR 7,000.

Dining out in Moscow offers significant savings compared to Doha. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs RUB 600 in Moscow versus QAR 35 in Doha.

Public transportation in Moscow is more expensive, with monthly passes at RUB 2,700 compared to QAR 200 in Doha.

Purchasing power in Doha 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 25%. 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 Doha, the same lifestyle would cost around QAR 1,876. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about RUB 82,460 monthly in Moscow versus QAR 6,566 in Doha. 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
Doha, Qatar

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
RUB 80,000
QAR 7,000
1BR Outside Center
RUB 45,000
QAR 4,500
3BR City Center
RUB 150,000
QAR 14,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
RUB 600
QAR 35
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
RUB 3,000
QAR 200
Cappuccino
RUB 200
QAR 20
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
RUB 200
QAR 50

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
RUB 90
QAR 6
Bread (500g)
RUB 45
QAR 4
Eggs (12)
RUB 120
QAR 10
Cheese (1kg)
RUB 700
QAR 40

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
RUB 60
QAR 8
Monthly Pass
RUB 2,700
QAR 200
Taxi Start
RUB 150
QAR 10
Gasoline (1L)
RUB 55
QAR 2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
RUB 8,000
QAR 300
Internet (60 Mbps)
RUB 600
QAR 350
Mobile Minute
RUB 3
QAR 1

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Moscow to Doha, 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 Doha 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

Doha

Cost of Living Index65
Rent Index55
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Moscow more expensive than Doha?

Yes, Moscow is approximately 30.0% more expensive than Doha overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Doha salary when living in Moscow. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Doha, you'd need about $65,000 in Moscow for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Moscow and Doha?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 36%, 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?

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

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

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 Doha, these figures are QAR 6,376 for singles and QAR 15,566 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

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

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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