In recent years, the housing choices that stand out in Russia have been compact, efficient living spaces. One-room flats and the familiar compact “kopek piece” have become the norm for many urbanites, reshaping how new homes are designed and priced. As a result, the average usable area of newly constructed apartments has edged downward, reflecting both consumer demand and the evolving economics of residential development.
Analysts tracking urban housing markets note a clear trend: from 2010 to the early 2020s, the typical size of a fresh-build apartment declined noticeably. This shrinkage in space accompanied a sharp rise in overall price tags for new residences, which helped push many buyers toward smaller configurations. The shift is not simply about wanting less space; it is tied to a complex mix of affordability pressures, financing considerations, and the broader macroeconomic environment that shapes what households can realistically invest in when acquiring a home.
For several years now, buyers have shown a preference for compact one-bedroom or two-room layouts. The pandemic era amplified this inclination as costs surged and the available budget for housing tightened. In such conditions, larger apartments have become less accessible for a majority of residents, prompting developers to optimize floor plans for cost efficiency without sacrificing functional livability. Government incentives and policy signals can further influence these decisions, potentially guiding the market toward smaller units as a means to curb construction costs and expand housing supply at a more attainable price point. Without policy support, the incentive for builders to trim space could intensify, which would keep price per square meter elevated even if total area shrinks.
Industry observers indicate that across major urban centers, the average price of new homes has risen substantially over a multi-year horizon. This price acceleration, combined with changes in consumer preferences, has positioned smaller, well-planned apartments as a practical path to ownership for many households. Looking ahead, projections for large metropolitan areas suggest that affordability pressures may persist, with prices stabilizing around current levels or easing slightly if local markets benefit from policy interventions or improved supply chains. The balance between unit size, price, and livability remains at the heart of ongoing debates about urban housing strategies and the goal of making quality homes more accessible to a broader segment of the population. These dynamics are of interest not only to residents but also to real estate professionals and policy makers seeking sustainable growth in urban housing markets (Institute of Urban Economy researchers).