What Languages Do They Speak In Russia?

Explore the languages spoken in Russia on an interactive map.

Russia Languages: Quick FactsRussia flag

Languages

1

Russian

Population

143,400,000

Cost of living

~ $1065

Index: 21.3

Safety / crime index

High

Crime Index: 39.7

Language Spoken in Russia Percentage

LanguagePercentagePopulation
RussianOfficial
85.7%122,893,800

Do They Speak English in Russia?

English proficiency

Moderate

Ranked #40 on the EF English Proficiency Index.

In short

In major cities and tourist-facing businesses across Russia, English is common enough to help you get by. In smaller towns and more local situations, knowing some Russian is recommended.

FAQ

Russia Language FAQ

Short answers to common questions about the main languages, English usage, and communication in Russia.

  • Russian is the main language spoken in Russia.

  • Russian is spoken by about 85.7% of the population in Russia.

    That corresponds to roughly 122,893,800 people.

  • Often yes in major cities and common travel situations, but not everywhere. If you plan to spend time outside the main urban areas, some Russian is helpful.

What languages do they speak in Russia?

Russian is the main language spoken in Russia.

How widely spoken is Russian in Russia?

Russian is spoken by about 85.7% of the population in Russia.

That corresponds to roughly 122,893,800 people.

Can you get by with English in Russia?

Often yes in major cities and common travel situations, but not everywhere. If you plan to spend time outside the main urban areas, some Russian is helpful.

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