A recent household survey shows that just under half of Russians, 47 percent, believe prices for essential foods, goods, and services rose more quickly in March than in February. The findings come from a survey conducted by the Public Opinion Foundation, reflecting the views of ordinary households across the country.
Meanwhile, 28 percent of respondents said prices continued to rise at the same pace as before, while 5 percent reported a slower pace of increase. About 10 percent did not notice any change in the cost of living. These figures illustrate a broad sense of ongoing inflation while also revealing pockets of stability in certain consumer categories or locations.
Looking ahead, roughly a quarter, 23 percent, anticipate faster price growth next month, whereas 45 percent expect prices to hold steady, and 8 percent predict a slowdown. Around 10 percent do not foresee any shift in the cost of basic goods and services. The survey surveyed 1,500 adults across 104 cities, offering a snapshot of regional differences and national sentiment.
In the broader context of consumer mood, several indicators point to a lift in willingness to spend among Russians in the first quarter of the year. Analysts and observers have linked this uptick to a combination of stronger employment, higher wages in real terms, and pension adjustments that improved household purchasing power. At the same time, a softer ruble has contributed to certain price dynamics, nudging some households toward more rapid spending as families prepare for future inflation expectations. These factors together have shaped a nuanced picture: confidence rising in some domains even as price pressures remain a consideration for household budgets. The results underscore how sentiment and actual price movements can diverge in the short term, yet still influence daily spending decisions. The overall tone suggests households are balancing optimism with caution as they navigate evolving cost trends. A market watcher noted that surveys like these capture the lived experience of families who must budget for groceries, utilities, and services in a climate of fluctuating exchange rates and ongoing economic shifts. The public sentiment aligns with other data showing modest improvements in consumer readiness to purchase, even as price trajectories remain a key consideration for many households. (Public Opinion Foundation)