I’m reading the chat and feel like adding my two cents

Many people here compare life in Germany and Russia. They say that here in Russia salaries are low and prices are high. Allow me to disagree. I don’t know what it’s like in Germany; I moved here from Latvia myself. So, to me, prices in Russia aren’t high. Utility bills are downright laughable. We’ve been living here for 5 months, and every month when I pay the utility bill, I’m delighted. It comes to about 3 thousand for everything—that includes building maintenance, video surveillance, electricity, gas, water, and even internet and TV. In Latvia, we paid around 45 euros for electricity alone. For all 5 months, my husband has been the only one working. And we can live on one salary, even though we rent an apartment and have 2 pets that eat only premium food because they have allergies, so you can’t buy them just any food or cheaper food. In Latvia, I can say that with these circumstances we wouldn’t have been able to live even a month on one salary. My daughter and I also go out, sometimes to exhibitions, sometimes to the cinema. And almost every month someone comes to visit, which means extra expenses too. I’ve now found a job with a decent salary for the region. You just have to look. I think that once I start earning too, things will become much easier. And I can say for sure that when choosing Russia, you have to understand that this is not a country for high earnings and social benefits. Russia is a country where what matters is how you can realize your potential and contribute something to the country’s development—and then you’ll get something in return. First you give, then you get more. I’ve also noticed, while looking for a job, that formal education isn’t as important here as your skills and abilities. You may not have any diplomas, but if you’re handy and smart and willing to learn new things, many doors are open to you.