According to VCIOM, the wealth threshold in Moscow is about 547 thousand rubles per month – many locals consider this level rich. The average Russian threshold sits at 393 thousand rubles, while in rural areas it falls to roughly 295 thousand rubles. Such differences said the researchers, according to VCIOM. Источник: VCIOM.

During two decades, the bar for being called wealthy has shifted noticeably. In 2005, a person needed roughly eleven median salaries to reach this status, but today only about four are considered enough. This decline indicates that average earnings are rising, though the cost of living also plays a role.

Attitudes toward money are mixed. About forty percent of Russians do not chase wealth at all, preferring a simpler life. Meanwhile, roughly thirty percent doubt they will ever become rich, reflecting a sense of limited opportunities. These views show that material ambition is not universal.

By economists note that the new thresholds still exceed the official median wage, meaning that true affluence remains out of reach for most families. The gap between the richest and the average citizen persists, suggesting that while wealth appears more accessible, structural inequalities stay strong.

To put these numbers in perspective, the current median wage is roughly 80 thousand rubles, so the required income for “rich” status is still many times higher than what a typical family earns. Such disparity highlights why many continue to view the definition of wealth with skepticism.

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