Cost Comparison 2025

MoscowvsEdmonton

Russia
Canada

Overall

💰

+36.0%

Moscow is 36.0%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+28.6%

Housing is 28.6% higher

Dining

🍽️

+27.3%

Restaurants 27.3% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+73.3%

Food shopping 73.3% more

Comparing the cost of living between Moscow, Russia and Edmonton, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Moscow is more expensive than Edmonton by approximately 36.0%. 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 Edmonton by 22%. A one-bedroom apartment in Moscow's city center costs around RUB 80,000, while the same in Edmonton is approximately CA$1,400.

Dining out in Moscow offers significant savings compared to Edmonton. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs RUB 600 in Moscow versus CA$18 in Edmonton.

Public transportation in Moscow is more expensive, with monthly passes at RUB 2,700 compared to CA$100 in Edmonton.

Purchasing power in Edmonton 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 42%. 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 Edmonton, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$695. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about RUB 82,460 monthly in Moscow versus CA$2,431 in Edmonton. 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
Edmonton, Canada

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
RUB 80,000
CA$1,400
1BR Outside Center
RUB 45,000
CA$1,100
3BR City Center
RUB 150,000
CA$2,400

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
RUB 600
CA$18
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
RUB 3,000
CA$80
Cappuccino
RUB 200
CA$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
RUB 200
CA$6

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
RUB 90
CA$2
Bread (500g)
RUB 45
CA$3
Eggs (12)
RUB 120
CA$4
Cheese (1kg)
RUB 700
CA$14

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
RUB 60
CA$4
Monthly Pass
RUB 2,700
CA$100
Taxi Start
RUB 150
CA$4
Gasoline (1L)
RUB 55
CA$1

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
RUB 8,000
CA$200
Internet (60 Mbps)
RUB 600
CA$75
Mobile Minute
RUB 3
CA$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Moscow to Edmonton, 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 Edmonton 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

Edmonton

Cost of Living Index68
Rent Index45
Purchasing Power Index95

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Moscow more expensive than Edmonton?

Yes, Moscow is approximately 36.0% more expensive than Edmonton overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Edmonton salary when living in Moscow. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Edmonton, you'd need about $68,000 in Moscow for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Moscow and Edmonton?

The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 42%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

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

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

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 Edmonton, these figures are CA$1,795 for singles and CA$4,331 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

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

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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