Moving to RussiaShare
Russia is a solid destination for global professionals, featuring a moderate tax burden of 27.8%. With a very high English proficiency score of 521, daily communication and business integration are seamless.
Lifestyle & Vibe
Russia is currently waging an active war of aggression against Ukraine and is under comprehensive Western sanctions, with most major international payment systems including Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal having exited the country - making it functionally impossible for most foreign remote workers to manage international finances. The country poses extreme legal and personal safety risks for foreign nationals, including arbitrary detention, restrictions on freedom of expression, and risk of forced military conscription for those with dual citizenship. Internet censorship is extensive, VPN use is increasingly restricted, and the geopolitical environment renders Russia entirely unsuitable and inadvisable as a base for any remote worker or entrepreneur. This is not a destination for relocation under current circumstances.
Digital Freedom & Remote Work
Censorship and network interference data is currently being collected for Russia.
Society & Demographics
Russia presents a complex demographic landscape with 53.59% of its population being female and 46.41% male, reflecting an imbalance that has been attributed to historical factors such as the Great Patriotic War and more recent health issues. With 94.36% internet penetration, digital connectivity is widespread, facilitating modern communication and access to information across diverse regions. The country's EF English Proficiency Score of 521 indicates a moderate level of English proficiency, underscoring both strengths in education and areas needing improvement. Urbanization stands at 75.11%, reflecting significant population movement towards cities, while a GINI Index of 33 suggests a relatively equitable distribution of income, compared to other countries globally.
Gender Distribution
Aging Society
Population over 65 years old
Education Spending
UNESCO Data. Indicates focus on public schooling.
Quality of Life
In Russia, the quality of life is reflected in a life expectancy of 70.02 years, though it's important to note that this figure can vary significantly between regions. The country boasts an impressive ratio of medical doctors at 51.11 per 10,000 people and a high Universal Health Coverage Index of 81, indicating robust healthcare access and services. However, health metrics such as the 17.61% obesity rate suggest challenges in public health. Russians report an average happiness score of 5.83 out of 10, balancing productivity with about 39 hours worked per week, while air quality is relatively good at 11.27 µg/m³, and the low homicide rate of 6.77 per 100,000 people points to generally safe living conditions.
Economic Freedom & Business Climate
The Russian economy currently operates within a framework that is moderately free according to the Overall Economic Freedom Score of 50.3000. Despite an unemployment rate of only 2.1300%, indicative of robust demand for labor, Russia faces significant challenges including high tax burdens (81.9000) and weak property rights (18.6000), which can stifle business growth and investment. The financial sector's freedom is notably low at 30.0000, suggesting limited opportunities for fiscal and monetary policies to support economic activities effectively.
Evaluated across 12 quantitative factors. Scores span 0-100, where higher scores indicate greater economic liberty, lighter tax burdens, and stronger property rights.
Climate Profile (Moscow)
Russia's climate is a quintessential example of a humid continental type, with frigid winters and warm summers, where expats and digital nomads can expect to experience a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. The country's hottest period typically occurs in July, with average maximum temperatures reaching 24.20°C, while the rainiest months are July and December, with 14 rainy days, and the best season to relocate or visit for comfortable weather is from May to September, when mild temperatures and fewer rainy days create an ideal atmosphere for exploration and outdoor activities. During this period, the average maximum temperatures range from 17.87°C to 24.20°C, making it an attractive time for expats and digital nomads to experience Russia's vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and exciting urban life without the harsh winter conditions.
Political Stability & Governance
Evaluated across Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI). Scores span approximately -2.5 to 2.5, where higher scores indicate stronger governance, better stability, and lower corruption.
Relocation Guides & Articles
We're currently working on an in-depth expat guide for Russia.
Browse all 98 expat guidesFrequently Asked Questions
What is the tax burden in Russia?
The tax burden in Russia is approximately 27.8%, according to World Bank data.
Is Russia safe?
The homicide rate in Russia is 6.8 per 100,000 people (World Bank).
Are people happy in Russia?
The World Happiness Report scores Russia at 5.8 out of 10.