In 2022, the share of Russians earning more than 100 thousand rubles per month peaked at 7.4 percent, according to Rosstat data cited by RIA News. This marks a jump of 1.7 percentage points from the previous year and represents the first notable rise in this bracket since Rosstat began tracking such figures in 2013. Alongside this, the portion of people with salaries in the 60 to 100 thousand ruble range rose by 2.7 points to 15.3 percent. Increases were also observed in the 45 to 60 thousand ruble bracket, up 1.8 points to 13.5 percent, and the 27 to 45 thousand ruble band, rising 1.5 points to 27.4 percent. Each of these shifts reflects an overall movement toward higher monthly incomes across several middle and upper segments of the earnings distribution.
While higher income groups gained ground, the share of low earners continued to shrink. Those making 19 to 27 thousand rubles a month dropped by one percentage point to 16.1 percent, the 10 to 19 thousand ruble group fell by 3.9 points to 15.9 percent, and those earning under 10 thousand rubles decreased by 2.8 points to 4.4 percent. These changes indicate a broad easing in lower-income levels alongside rising middle income categories.
Earlier statements from MP Svetlana Bessarab raised discussions about pension levels, specifically questions around how Russians might access pension payments around 50 thousand rubles. This topic is often linked to broader debates about social support and income security within the country.
Meanwhile, commentators in the West have noted setbacks for Russia’s economic isolation, suggesting that external pressures and policy responses are influencing the domestic economic landscape. The ongoing dialogue points to a complex interaction between market forces, government measures, and international dynamics that shape household incomes and living standards.
In summary, 2022 saw a pronounced reshaping of income distribution in Russia, with stronger earnings in several mid to upper ranges and a steady decline in low-wage categories. The data point to a shifting economic structure that affects consumer behavior, savings, and long-term financial planning for many families. Analysts continue to monitor these trends to understand how they translate into everyday life and public policy choices in the years ahead.