Choosing the best place to live often comes down to more than just statistics and headlines. Oftentimes, it’s about the lifestyle, opportunities, and freedoms that define daily life. Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, has recently signed a decree that allows foreign citizens to apply for temporary residency if they share the nation’s traditional spirit. But how does life in Russia truly compare to that in the United States? Are things better there, or would residents find it worse?
According to the United Nations’ World Happiness Report released in 2024, Americans are significantly happier than Russians based on a number of factors, including social support and freedom. Indeed, the US ranked 23rd of 143 countries, while Russia was only 72nd.
In terms of population density, Russia is certainly the better option. Not only is it the biggest country in the world, but its current density sits at about 21 people for every square mile (eight for every sq km). This compares well to the US, which has 91 people per sq mile (35 per sq km).
Between sunny beaches and snowy mountains, the US offers a diverse climate. Russia, with its vast territory, also has a diverse climate, but is known for its harsh winters, particularly in Siberia. For those preferring milder climates and geographic variety, the US is a far better option.
On a monthly basis, working residents in the United States receive a lot more income than those in Russia. Indeed, the average monthly salary in the US sits at around US$4,482, while Russians earn $806.
The gender gap also has a significant influence on a country’s happiness. In the United States, the number of women in the House of Representatives is currently 128 of 435 members, which is a record so far. In Russia, however, there are only 100 women out of 450 members of the State Duma.
