75% of Russians Donʼt Have Enough Money for Basic Living

Nearly half – 47% of Russians – said their financial situation had worsened in 2025 compared to the previous year and 75% reported that they often lack money for everyday needs, The Moscow Times reported, citing an Anderida Financial Group survey.

For 40% of Russian residents, the income level remained unchanged, while only 13% reported an increase in earnings.

Three-quarters, 75% of respondents, said they don’t have enough money for everyday needs. Over half, 56%, stated they need more than 20,000 rubles ($248.5) per month to plan their budget more comfortably, the survey showed. 

For 23% of Russians, 20,000 rubles was enough, according to the survey. Another 21% said they critically need an additional 15,000 rubles ($186.3) monthly.

The Russian economy is further weakening due to falling oil prices, budget constraints, and rising corporate debt. The situation is also complicated by a labor shortage, a weak national currency, and high interest rates. 

According to the survey, 29% are looking for side jobs to increase their income, and 15% are hoping for a salary raise. Every fourth respondent is ready to borrow money, while 18% have fully switched to a strict saving mode, and 10% rely on passive income – interest from deposits, rental income, etc.

The Russian government forecasts that real wages will grow by 19.8% over four years, and nominal incomes by 43.8%.

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Although the Russian authorities had promised rapid income growth due to a labor shortage and salary competition, this process has already stopped. In particular, wages in the defense industry are no longer rising, MT wrote, citing Russian Deputy Minister of Industry Vasily Osmakov.

According to the Russian Statistics Service, in 2024, average wages in Russia increased by 18.3%, but taking inflation into account – only by 9.1%.

Earlier in autumn 2024, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported that Russia’s economy is overheating.