Cost of Living in Chelyabinsk, Russia

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How Much Does It Cost to Live In Chelyabinsk?

Chelyabinsk is an industrial city in Chelyabinsk Oblast, Russia.

However, the fact that it’s an industrial city shouldn’t stop you from visiting it: the fact that it’s situated in the heart of the Urals made way for such marvelous sightings as Tanganay National Park and Lake Turgoyak.

It has great nature to offer: plenty of beautiful places are surrounding the city within a radius of 100–150 km, like lakes, mountains, ski and health resorts.

The prices in Chelyabinsk are cheaper compared to other Russian cities, because it’s not exactly a tourist destination.

RESTAURANTS

In Chelyabinsk, you can – of course – find restaurants that offer world class dining, but you can also eat for less money – and eat well – without going to the many western fast food chains that have opened up. Russians have their own versions of fast food restaurants where you can eat for only 6$. Mixed alcoholic beverages and beers at nightclubs are extremely expensive.

MARKETS

As for grocery shopping, there are some supermarkets that are more expensive than others, like Billa or Perekrestok. As for fresh fruits and vegetables, you can always buy them at one of the open markets that pop up daily all throughout the city. It’s always fresh, and usually much cheaper than the produce in supermarkets.

TRANSPORTATION

Cheap transportation is one of the good sides of this city. There’s not too much traffic and taxis are actually very cheap, starting from $1. The best part of Chelyabinsk transport are the so-called “Marshutnoye Taxis” which are basically small minibuses that can hold up to 8 people. The prices are reasonable and they move quickly through the city. The lack of a metro is the biggest weakness for Chelyabinsk.

UTILITIES (MONTHLY)

Utilities in Chelyabinsk are very cheap, and for an apartment of 85m2 all basic utilities, including electricity, gas, garbage services, heating and cooling cost around 100$. Calls to landlines from mobile phones are more expensive than calls to other mobile phones. The coverage is good in urban areas and the tariffs are some of the cheapest in the world.

SPORTS & LEISURE

Chelyabinsk is filled with natural beauties like lakes and mountains, ski and health resorts – where you can practice sports outside and have a great time doing it. However, if you’re more of an indoor type of person, you can exercise in a gym or a fitness club for around 35$ fee a month. As for other types of leisure, there are theaters and cinemas throughout the country, and a ticket for a cinema costs close to 4$.

CLOTHING & SHOES

There are many shops and some malls in Chelyabinsk, and though they might not be as gorgeous Moscow GUM — one of the world’s most beautiful shopping malls, you will find your favorite brands there. As for the prices, they are far lower than in other cities. You can buy a pair of quality jeans for around 45$, while a pair of running shoes of brands like Nike costs around 65$.

RENT PER MONTH

Rent isn’t too expensive, but it does largely depend on where you want to live and the size of the apartment you’re renting. If you’re looking for an apartment in the very center of Chelyabinsk, it will cost you around 240$. However, if you have your eye on the Chelyabinsk suburbs, the price will drop to at around 165$.

Cost of Living Averages Table for Chelyabinsk

How Does the Average Person Spend Their Money in Chelyabinsk?

Like in most countries, the people of Chelyabinsk spend the biggest part of their incomes on food and groceries.

The second biggest expense for the people living in Chelyabinsk is rent, which is expected since rent is a big financial burden for any home.

The interesting thing here is that many smaller cities in Russia have rent prices so low, that they’re monthly cost is very close to the monthly cost for restaurant expenses.

Transportation is also an important financial burden for everyone since it has to be paid, whether you use your private car or public transport.

Average Costs Breakdown

Chelyabinsk: Average Salary, Minimum Wage & Mortgages

The average salary in Chelyabinsk is relatively low, taking into consideration the rents and the prices of utilities, transportation and other expenses.

However, the business tax rates are also very low (compared to European rates), so the situation is good if you want to establish your own small business.

With an average monthly income of around 400$ you can cover all basic expenses, but you can’t save up or indulge in experiences and adventures like traveling.

Minimum wage in Chelyabinsk is around 150$ and, though this isn’t staggeringly low, it definitely isn’t enough to cover all basic needs.

Cost of Living by City in Chelyabinsk