The Impact of Urbanization on Living Standards of the Population in Russia

Urbanization has a significant impact on the development of human civilization. At the same time, the way civilization develops generates urbanization. The growth of large million-plus cities is changing the quality and style of life of an individual, family, household, as well as society, region and country. Large urban formations in modern conditions are both a consequence and indicator of the development of a country and the engine of its economic development. The greater the number and size of urban agglomerations and the faster their growth, the faster economic growth occurs. Under the conditions of urbanization, the structure of household incomes and expenditures, average wage and other factors affecting the standard of living of the population are changing. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between individual aspects of the standard of living of the population in large cities of Russia. In particular, the dependence of the average wage and the purchasing power of the population on the size of the city’s population is considered. The article provides a more detailed analysis of the purchasing power of the population in the 15 largest cities of Russia and the degree of its dependence on the size of the city, as well as its growth rate. The relationship of urbanization with other factors affecting the standard of living of the population during the period of constant reform of the country’s economy has been studied. The analysis carried out is the basis for further forecasting of changes in the standard of living of the population and other aspects that affect household finances. The findings of the study make it possible to understand in general the main changes in the standard of living of the population in the conditions of urbanization, and sometimes deurbanization. The study was carried out on the basis of official statistical data of Rosstat, analysis of materials and works of other authors carrying out scientific activities in this direction.