Where an individual lives is very vital to the development process of the state of mind. Choosing the best place to live often comes down to more than just statistics and headlines.

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin has signed a decree that allows foreign citizens to apply for temporary residency if they share the nation’s traditional spirit.

However, is Russia worth the application compared to the land of the free, United States of America ?

Let’s go through a brief look and comparison between the US and the Kremlin.

Happiness

The United Nations’ World Happiness released a report in 2024, indicating that Americans are significantly happier than Russians based on factors including social support and freedom.

The US ranked 23rd of 143 countries compared to Russia’s 72nd ranking.

Income

The average monthly salary in the US is summed up at $4,482, while Russians earn $806.

Working residents in the United States receive a lot more income than those in Russia on a monthly basis.

Housing

In this category, Russia defeats the US as rental value of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center in the US is about US$1,763, while Russians only pay $405.

Goods, Products, Services

Again, Russians enjoy in this feat as residents pay significantly less for goods and services.

For goods worth around $17 in America, Russians could pay $6.

Public Transportation

In all ramifications, Russian public transportation is far better than that in the United States, with a a single ride on public transport in the Russian capital city of Moscow is about US$0.71, while residents of Washington, D.C. can pay up to $4.50.

Gender Equality

This factor is very essential. The US is currently the 43rd best country for gender equality.

In the United States, the number of women in the House of Representatives is currently 128 of 435 members, compared to Russia’s 100 women out of 450 members.

Women in the US earn slightly higher than women in Russia.

Domestic violence

Compared to the US, Russia does not have legislation put in place to address domestic violence.

In summary, Russia introduced a legislation in 2017 known as the “slapping law,” which decriminalizes many types of violence in the home.

Healthcare

Russia offers universal healthcare to its citizens unlike the US.

Russia have more hospital beds than the US.

Although, Russia’s healthcare ranking sits at 84, while the US sits at 69.

Life Expectancy

Compared to Russia, the United States has better life expectancy.

In Russia the male life expectancy is 67, while in US, it is 76. For females, Russia sits at 77 while the US sits at 80.

Homicides

In the US crime rates are significantly higher compared to Russia.

However, when it comes to murder, Russia is higher, although this figure has actually gone down by almost double in recent years.

Religious Freedom

The US strongly upholds religious freedom, allowing individuals to practice any religion. Russia has been criticized for favoring the Russian Orthodox Church and restricting other religious practices.

After the comparisons, it becomes clear that living in the United States is objectively better than Russia.