MoscowvsSantiago
Overall
💰+10.0%
Moscow is 10.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-9.1%
Restaurants 9.1% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+22.2%
Food shopping 22.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Moscow, Russia and Santiago, Chile reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Moscow is more expensive than Santiago 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 Santiago. A one-bedroom apartment in Moscow's city center costs around RUB 80,000, while the same in Santiago is approximately CLP 500,000.
Dining out in Moscow costs about the same compared to Santiago. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs RUB 600 in Moscow versus CLP 7,000 in Santiago.
Public transportation in Moscow is more affordable, with monthly passes at RUB 2,700 compared to CLP 33,000 in Santiago.
Grocery shopping in Moscow is more affordable by approximately 18%. 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 Santiago, the same lifestyle would cost around CLP 286,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about RUB 82,460 monthly in Moscow versus CLP 1,003,100 in Santiago. 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 Moscow to Santiago, 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 Santiago 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
Santiago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Moscow more expensive than Santiago?
Yes, Moscow is approximately 10.0% more expensive than Santiago overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Moscow compared to Santiago?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Santiago salary when living in Moscow. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Santiago, you'd need about $55,000 in Moscow for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Moscow and Santiago?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 18%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Santiago offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Santiago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Moscow if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Santiago for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Moscow vs Santiago?
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 Santiago, these figures are CLP 636,600 for singles and CLP 1,653,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Moscow and Santiago 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Santiago to maintain your lifestyle from Moscow
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