Russia's Top Earners: Wages in 24 Industries Surpass 150,000 Rubles
In August 2025, a significant shift occurred in Russia's wage landscape. While the average salary rose to 92,900 rubles, wages in 24 industries surpassed 150,000 rubles, more than double the previous year's figure. Notably, residents of Moscow and St. Petersburg set their happiness bar at 695,000 rubles, significantly higher than the national average.
The highest wages were recorded in maritime freight, finance, insurance, fishing, pipeline transport, and oil extraction, ranging from 180,000 to 200,000 rubles. Software developers and passenger air transport workers also earned over 200,000 rubles. Meanwhile, gas extraction workers led the pack with earnings of 327,600 rubles, closely followed by software publishing (216,700 rubles) and pesticide and agrochemical production (215,800 rubles).
A VTsIOM survey from 2021 revealed that Russians believe they need an average monthly income of 227,000 rubles to feel happy, roughly 2.5 times the national average wage. Regional differences were evident, with Moscow and Central Russia having the highest aspirations, followed by Northwest Russia (St. Petersburg and surroundings). In peripheral regions like Siberia and the Far East, much lower incomes were deemed sufficient for happiness.
In conclusion, while the average Russian salary increased in August 2025, certain industries experienced significant wage growth. However, the perception of happiness varies greatly by region, with Moscow and St. Petersburg setting the bar significantly higher than other parts of the country.
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