Recent results from a VTsIOM survey conducted at the end of July reveal that more than 40 percent of Russians view the current inflation level as too high. The organization published the detailed results on its official site.
When compared with June, the share of respondents who highlighted high inflation rose from 35 percent to 41 percent. About one in three people, 33 percent, described inflation as moderate, while 14 percent consider it unimportant or not a concern.
Looking ahead, the survey shows that half of the participants expect only a slight rise in prices in the near term, whereas 28 percent foresee a substantial increase. These outlooks suggest persistent concerns about price movements among the public.
VTsIOM sociologists note that Russians have maintained consistently elevated inflation expectations since 2012, indicating a general belief that prices will climb regardless of the broader economic climate. This mindset appears to be resilient even when other economic indicators shift.
The survey drew responses from 1,600 adults aged 18 and older from across Russia, and VTsIOM states that the margin of error does not exceed 2.5 percent, underscoring the reliability of the snapshot given the sample size and coverage.
In mid-August, VTsIOM conducted another poll with results suggesting a strong belief among Russians that their country holds advantages relative to many other states. This sentiment adds another layer to understanding public perception during a period of evolving economic and geopolitical circumstances.
The data also reflect a broader pattern in financial behavior, with many Russians showing a tendency to reassess household budgets in light of ongoing price changes. The results imply that inflation expectations are deeply embedded in everyday decision making, influencing savings, spending, and the strategies families use to manage risk.
Experts point out that inflation forecasting among the public is not solely a reflection of recent price movements but also of long-standing patterns in wages, utilities, and consumer goods. While some respondents expect only gradual changes, others anticipate sharper price surges, shaping how households prioritize essential purchases and discretionary spending alike.
Analysts who monitor the data emphasize the importance of clear government communication and credible monetary policy to anchor expectations. When people perceive that price increases are controlled and predictable, confidence tends to stabilize, reducing the likelihood of sudden shifts in consumer behavior that could amplify economic volatility. Conversely, persistent uncertainty can reinforce cautious spending and delayed investment decisions, creating a cycle that is hard to break without decisive policy signals.
Overall, the July and August surveys illustrate a public that remains vigilant about inflation while simultaneously displaying a mix of optimism and concern for the future. As policymakers weigh steps to stabilize prices, public sentiment will likely continue to respond quickly to new information, reinforcing the need for transparent, data-driven approaches to economic management.
In summary, VTsIOM’s findings highlight a nation attentive to price dynamics, with a substantial portion of the population perceiving inflation as a ongoing challenge. The presence of a substantial segment expecting only modest price increases suggests a nuanced landscape where household resilience varies by region, income level, and personal experience. Ongoing monitoring will be essential to understand how these expectations evolve in response to policy actions and global economic trends.
Notes: The July data come from a nationwide survey administered by VTsIOM, with 1,600 respondents aged 18 and over from all regions. The reported margin of error is within 2.5 percent. The August poll reflects continued public sentiment relative to inflation and national comparisons. All figures are provisional and attributed to VTsIOM research communications.