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Digital Nomad Guide to Moscow, Russia | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Moscow, Russia

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Moscow, Russia because of its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and affordable cost of living. The population of Moscow, Russia is approximately 12.6 million people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Moscow is estimated to be around $1,000 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Moscow is approximately $1,000 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Moscow is likely the Arbat district, which is known for its lively atmosphere, numerous cafes, and historic architecture. The weather in Moscow, Russia is generally cold, with temperatures ranging from -4°F to 86°F throughout the year.

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How do I meet people in Moscow?

When we asked people living in Moscow about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Moscow often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining online forums, or attending meetups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local churches, volunteer organizations, or other social groups. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals," said one person in Moscow.

What is life like in Moscow?

When we asked people living in Moscow what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Moscow as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of culture, history, and modern amenities, making it an ideal place to live and work. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate with other professionals in the city. The cost of living in Moscow is relatively high, but there are plenty of affordable housing options available. Public transportation is reliable and efficient, making it easy to get around the city. The city also offers a wide variety of entertainment and leisure activities, from museums and galleries to parks and nightlife," remarked one member in Moscow.

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Where should I live in Moscow?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Moscow is to use online rental platforms such as Avito, Cian, and Yandex.Realty. These websites offer a wide range of rental options, from apartments to houses, and can be filtered by location, price, and amenities. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties on social media platforms such as VKontakte and Facebook. It is also possible to find a place to live in Moscow through real estate agencies, which can provide more personalized assistance in finding a suitable property," explained one expat living in Moscow, Russia.

"We chose a family friendly area - Chisty Prudi - and used Evans estate agent for our first two apartments and Penny Lane for our last one. We used others too but Evans worked out to be the most reasonable overall and their agent actually listened to what we wanted, rather than showing us a whole load of rubbish. Penny Lane did a great job helping us find our last apartment," said one person in Moscow.

What do I need to know before moving to Moscow?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Moscow, they said:

"Before retiring in Moscow, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. It is important to research the visa requirements and to make sure that all necessary documents are in order. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language and culture, as well as the healthcare system. It is also important to research the availability of housing and to make sure that the area is safe and secure. Finally, expats should be aware of the climate and the potential for extreme weather conditions," said one expat who made the move to Moscow.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Moscow?

"Expats in Moscow appreciate the city's rich history and culture, which is evident in its many iconic landmarks and monuments. They also enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's diverse cultural offerings, from its world-class museums and galleries to its many theatres and opera houses. Finally, expats enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city, which makes it easy to make friends and feel at home," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Moscow.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Moscow?

"Expats in Moscow often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the city's large size and complex public transportation system can be difficult to navigate. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. Additionally, the cost of living in Moscow is quite high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Finally, the winter weather can be quite extreme, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the cold temperatures," said one person in Moscow.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Moscow for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Moscow for a while, you will need to obtain a valid Russian visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit or a long-term residence permit. You will also need to register your place of residence with the local authorities. Additionally, you may need to obtain a work permit if you plan to work in Russia," explained one expat living in Moscow, Russia.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Moscow?

We asked people in Moscow if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Moscow. It is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to dining, as it is considered rude to start eating before the host does. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public, as it is considered impolite. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to gift-giving, as it is considered rude to give an expensive gift to someone you do not know well," remarked one member in Moscow.

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What are healthcare services like in Moscow?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Moscow, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Moscow, are a mix of public and private facilities, offering a wide range of medical services to residents and visitors. The public healthcare system, which is funded by the government, provides free basic medical care to Russian citizens, including general practitioners, specialists, and emergency services. However, public hospitals and clinics in Moscow may face issues such as long waiting times, outdated equipment, and a lack of English-speaking staff. On the other hand, private healthcare facilities in Moscow offer a higher standard of care, with modern equipment, shorter waiting times, and English-speaking staff. These facilities cater to both locals and expatriates, providing a wide range of services, including dental care, maternity services, and specialized treatments. However, private healthcare can be expensive, and it is recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover the costs. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Moscow, with many open 24 hours a day. Prescription and over-the-counter medications are generally easy to obtain, although some specific medications may not be available or may require a prescription from a local doctor. In case of emergencies, Moscow has a well-developed ambulance service, which can be reached by dialing 112. However, response times may vary, and language barriers can be an issue. It is advisable for foreigners to have a basic understanding of Russian or have a translation app handy to communicate with emergency responders. Overall, healthcare services in Moscow are accessible and offer a range of options for both public and private care. However, it is essential to have adequate health insurance and be prepared for potential language barriers when seeking medical assistance," said one member in Moscow.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Moscow?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Moscow, often like the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. They appreciate the efficient and affordable public transportation system, which includes the metro, buses, and trams. Moscow offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. The city also has numerous parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the harsh winters and cold weather that Moscow experiences. The language barrier can be a significant challenge, as not everyone speaks English, and learning Russian can be difficult. The cost of living in Moscow can be high, particularly for housing and some goods and services. Traffic congestion is a common issue, and air pollution can be a concern. Additionally, some expats may find it challenging to navigate the bureaucracy and complex visa regulations in Russia. Finally, cultural differences and the political climate may be off-putting for some individuals," explained one digital nomad living in Moscow, Russia.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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