Which place is cheaper, Washington or Moscow?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Moscow or Washington?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Moscow and Washington. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Where Should I go: Moscow or Washington?
Moscow
Moscow is the capital of Russia and is notable for its important role in history. It's a very sprawling city with many museums and fascinating buildings. Ten percent of Russia's population lives in this capital city and it's a financial and political center for the country. The Moskva River weaves its way through the city and you will find most of the city's sights and attractions on the northern side of the river.
Washington
Washington, DC is the capital city of the United States of America. It is also a city rich in history and culture. The city dates back to 1791 when the states of Maryland and Virginia donated the land to create the capital. In 1846, Congress returned the land that was ceded by Virginia and in 1871 it created a single municipal government with the remaining area. Today, Washington, DC has a population of over 600,000 people. The metropolitan area includes suburbs in Maryland and Virginia and has a population of about 5.8 million.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMoscow $62Washington $198
The average daily cost (per person) in Moscow is $62, while the average daily cost in Washington is $198. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Moscow and Washington in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMoscow $39Washington $113
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMoscow $78Washington $226
Compare Hotels in Moscow and Washington
Looking for a hotel in Moscow or Washington? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Washington Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Moscow $6.06Washington $47
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Moscow
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Moscow are as follows:
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Two Metro Passes$1.45
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Moscow
Also for Moscow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer from Singkarak to Padang Airport (PDG): $167
- Private Transfer from Balai Batu Sadara to Padang Airport (PDG): $167
- Private Transfer from Nagari Sikucur to Padang Airport (PDG): $133
- Private Transfer from Padang Panjang to Padang Airport (PDG): $133
- Private Transfer from Nagari Sungai Asam to Padang Airport (PDG): $133
- Private Transfer from Palembang Airport (PLM) to Sei Selayur: $92
- Private Transfer from Palembang Airport (PLM) to Palembang: $92
- Private Transfer from Palembang Airport (PLM) to 8 ILIR: $92
- Private Transfer from Palembang to Palembang Airport (PLM): $92
- Private Transfer from Sei Selayur to Palembang Airport (PLM): $92
- Private Transfer from Palembang Airport (PLM) to Bukit Baru: $92
- Private Transfer from Karya Baru to Palembang Airport (PLM): $92
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:
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Metro Day Pass$9.00
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington
Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- private Ronald Reagan, Washington National Airport transfer: $150
- Washington, DC: Airport Transfer to/from DCA or IAD: $350
- Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
- Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $198
- Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA): Transfer to Washington: $173
- Washington DC: Private Transfer to Airports or Baltimore: $160
- Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110
- Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
- Washington City to Philadelphia City - Private Car Transfer: $135
- Washington City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $63
- Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
- Try find your better than us! Airport transfer in Washington HTL-APT (IAD),(DCA): $180
Is it cheaper to fly into Moscow or Washington?
Prices for flights to both Washington and Moscow change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayMoscow $14Washington $38
Typical Food Prices in Moscow
For Moscow, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Lunch for Two$5.89
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Lunch in the Center Market$3.21
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Breakfast for 2$11
Typical Food Prices in Washington
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:
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Water$2.00
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Snacks on Monuments Tour$6.15
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington
For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
- Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $67
- Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
- DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
- Dupont Circle Food Tour: $80
- Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $96
- Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
- Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
- Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
- Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
- Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $150
- Washington DC Christmas Eve Plated Dinner Cruise: $206
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Moscow $16Washington $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Moscow
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Moscow's activities, tours, and tickets:
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Theater Tickets$12
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Kremlin Entry (2)$11
Tours and Activities in Moscow
For Moscow, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 2 Days Private Tour to See Bull Race and Raflesia Arnoldi Flower: $250
- Custom Private Tour in Palembang with English Speaking Driver: $85
Tours and Activities in Washington
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.
- See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour : $99
- 1.5 Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour with Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: $40
- 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
- 2 Hours Book Store Tour in Capitol Hill: $80
- 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC: $25
- 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour : $75
- A Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC's Monumental Marvels: $25
- African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $450
- African American History Tour with Museum Admission: $89
- Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour from Washington DC: $99
- America’s Main Street and White House – Full-Day Tour: $727
- American History/Natural History Museum Combo Guided Tour: $69
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayMoscow $7.79Washington $19
Sample the Local Flavors in Washington
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:
- Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
- DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $35
- Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
- Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
- DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
- DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
- From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
- Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Moscow and Washington, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Moscow much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Moscow is in Europe and Washington is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Moscow would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Moscow and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington than you might in Moscow.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Moscow Expensive? and Is Washington Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Moscow or Washington?
Moscow has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Moscow and Washington, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
When is the best time to visit Moscow or Washington?
Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
Should I visit Moscow or Washington in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Moscow and Washington. Furthermore, many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
Moscow is cooler than Washington in the summer. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).
In July, Moscow usually receives around the same amount of rain as Washington. Moscow gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyMoscow 19°C (67°F)Washington 79°F (26°C)
Should I visit Moscow or Washington in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Moscow as well as Washington. Additionally, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In the autumn, Moscow is much colder than Washington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Moscow in October average around 6°C (43°F), and Washington averages at about 60°F (15°C).
Moscow usually gets less rain in October than Washington. Moscow gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberMoscow 6°C (43°F)Washington 60°F (15°C)
Should I visit Moscow or Washington in the Winter?
Both Washington and Moscow are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
The weather in Washington can be very cold. Moscow can be very cold during winter. In January, Moscow is generally much colder than Washington. Daily temperatures in Moscow average around -8°C (17°F), and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).
In January, Moscow usually receives less rain than Washington. Moscow gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryMoscow -8°C (17°F)Washington 35°F (1°C)
Should I visit Moscow or Washington in the Spring?
Both Washington and Moscow during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.
Moscow is much colder than Washington in the spring. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).
Moscow usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Moscow gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilMoscow 7°C (45°F)Washington 56°F (14°C)
Typical Weather for Washington and Moscow
| Moscow | Washington | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | -8°C (17°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 35°F (1°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) |
| Feb | -7°C (20°F) | 37 mm (1.5 in) | 37°F (3°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) |
| Mar | -1°C (30°F) | 34 mm (1.3 in) | 47°F (8°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
| Apr | 7°C (45°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 56°F (14°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) |
| May | 14°C (57°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 66°F (19°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
| Jun | 18°C (64°F) | 76 mm (3 in) | 75°F (24°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
| Jul | 19°C (67°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) | 79°F (26°C) | 3.5 inches (88 mm) |
| Aug | 18°C (64°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) | 78°F (26°C) | 3.9 inches (98 mm) |
| Sep | 12°C (54°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) | 71°F (22°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
| Oct | 6°C (43°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 60°F (15°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) |
| Nov | -0°C (32°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 50°F (10°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
| Dec | -5°C (23°F) | 52 mm (2 in) | 39°F (4°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.