Some people found themselves in some cities by chance while others intentionally chose them before they came to Russia or even after living here for some time.
When an African in Russia is choosing a city to live in, it depends on so many factors such as school rankings, university life, cost of living, job/business opportunities, social life, safety, and so on.
Just for the fun of it, we decided to take a playful tour through A FEW of Russia’s most popular cities, rating them from south to north based on vibes, standard of living, and the perception of Africans living there.
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1. Krasnodar: The Sunny Escape
Overall Score: 7.9/10
If you’re running from the cold, Krasnodar is your spot! This southern city has a warm, pleasant climate and a booming atmosphere, much like a rapidly growing city like Abuja, Nigeria. It’s seen as a very desirable place to move to within Russia, and for good reason. The standard of living is good, with a reputation for great food and amazing agricultural products. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the good life without the harsh winter.
2. Rostov-on-Don: The Southern Capital
Overall Score: 80/100
You might have heard that Rostov is the “ghetto,” but don’t let that fool you because the people of Rostov love their city aggressively! Considered the capital of the south, it’s a large, peaceful, and homely city. The standard of living is solid for a Russian regional center, and it’s a major transport hub for rail, road, and river travel. The vibe is what truly sets it apart. It has a reputation for being a bit “rough around the edges,” but that just adds to its unique character and charm.
3. Voronezh: The Student Hub
Overall Score: 70/100
Hello, Voronezh! This city feels like a large university town, like Kumasi in Ghana, known for its many educational institutions. It’s youthful, vibrant, and full of international students. The standard of living is decent and, most importantly, very very affordable. The transport system mainly relies on buses, which get the job done. The city’s strongest point is its vibe. The large international community means you’re more likely to find familiar faces, foods, and a small but strong support network, which makes settling in so much easier.
4. Moscow: The Hustle Capital
Overall Score: 85/100
Welcome to the city that never sleeps! People in Moscow tend to think every other city is a village, and you can’t really blame them. Moscow is the Lagos of Russia: very fast, intense, and buzzing with energy and endless opportunity if you know where to look.
As a world-class megapolis, the standard of living is the highest in the country, but so is the cost. You can find anything and everything here. The vibe is pure hustle. While a city this big can feel lonely and you might encounter some rudeness, it’s also incredibly exciting. The famous Moscow Metro is not just transportation but a work of art. For career-driven individuals, this is the place to be.
5. Kazan: The Harmonious Hub
Overall Score: 92/100
Of course, residents of this city think they’re elite! If you’ve ever heard someone from Kazan speak, it’s obvious they are proud of their city. They can be a bit extra about it, but it’s all love. Often called Russia’s “third capital,” Kazan is known for its incredibly friendly and tolerant atmosphere, where different cultures and religions coexist in harmony.
It’s clean, modern, and has a high standard of living that’s more affordable than Moscow. It’s also a very sporty city with fantastic facilities. The transport system is modern and efficient, making it easy to get around. The vibe here is chill and welcoming.
6. Saint Petersburg: The Cultural Jewel
Overall Score: 88/100
Saint Petersburg is a timeless beauty that never ages. With the artistic soul and stunning beauty of a city like Cape Town, South Africa, it is a breathtaking coastal city with a sophisticated, European feel. It’s all about art, history, and incredible views, so it’s no wonder its residents are so proud.
After Moscow, everyone knows St. Petersburg is the city. The standard of living is excellent, though slightly cheaper than the capital. You’ll never run out of museums, theatres, or beautiful canals to explore. The vibe is very cosmopolitan and intellectual. While it can feel a bit reserved compared to southern cities, its sheer beauty makes it an amazing place to live. Perfect for the artist, the historian, and the romantic at heart, and for a quick getaway holiday.
If you want us to feature your city in our next article, drop a comment and tell us what you think about where you live!
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