Cost Comparison 2025

MoscowvsMexico City

Russia
Mexico

Overall

💰

-10.0%

Moscow is 10.0%cheaper

Rent

🏠

0.0%

Housing is 0.0% same

Dining

🍽️

-27.3%

Restaurants 27.3% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

-11.1%

Food shopping 11.1% less

Comparing the cost of living between Moscow, Russia and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Moscow is more affordable than Mexico City by approximately 10.0%. 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 similar than in Mexico City. A one-bedroom apartment in Moscow's city center costs around RUB 80,000, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.

Dining out in Moscow is notably more expensive compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs RUB 600 in Moscow versus MX$100 in Mexico City.

Public transportation in Moscow is more expensive, with monthly passes at RUB 2,700 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.

Grocery shopping in Moscow is more expensive by approximately 13%. 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 Mexico City, the same lifestyle would cost around MX$5,050. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about RUB 82,460 monthly in Moscow versus MX$17,675 in Mexico City. 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
Mexico City, Mexico

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
RUB 80,000
MX$15,000
1BR Outside Center
RUB 45,000
MX$8,000
3BR City Center
RUB 150,000
MX$30,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
RUB 600
MX$100
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
RUB 3,000
MX$700
Cappuccino
RUB 200
MX$60
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
RUB 200
MX$40

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
RUB 90
MX$25
Bread (500g)
RUB 45
MX$35
Eggs (12)
RUB 120
MX$35
Cheese (1kg)
RUB 700
MX$120

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
RUB 60
MX$5
Monthly Pass
RUB 2,700
MX$500
Taxi Start
RUB 150
MX$40
Gasoline (1L)
RUB 55
MX$23

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
RUB 8,000
MX$1,000
Internet (60 Mbps)
RUB 600
MX$500
Mobile Minute
RUB 3
MX$2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Mexico City 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 Mexico City 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

Mexico City

Cost of Living Index45
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index45

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Moscow more expensive than Mexico City?

No, Moscow is approximately 10.0% cheaper than Mexico City. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Moscow compared to Mexico City?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 91% of your Mexico City salary when living in Moscow. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $45,455 in Moscow for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Moscow and Mexico City?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 38%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable 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 Mexico City for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Moscow vs Mexico City?

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 Mexico City, these figures are MX$13,050 for singles and MX$35,675 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Moscow and Mexico City in 2025 shows moderate 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 Mexico City to maintain your lifestyle from Moscow

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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