Areas and suburbs in Moscow

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area's volatile political situation.

The best places to live in Moscow

Moscow has neighbourhoods to suit all lifestyles and preferences, each with its own quirks and conveniences. From outlying areas filled with quiet gated communities perfect for raising a family to trendy city-centre spots for young professionals with busy social schedules, there's something for everyone. 

The Russian capital is arranged around the Kremlin, with four major roads that encircling it. The different areas and suburbs of Moscow are distinguished according to their relative location to the major ring roads.

These four ring roads are the Boulevard Ring, the Garden Ring, the Third Ring, and the Moscow Automobile Ring Road. All areas between the Kremlin and the Garden Ring Road are deemed to be in ‘the centre’ of Moscow. Accommodation prices in these areas tend to be higher than anywhere else. Beyond the Garden Ring are the outer areas of Moscow.

Here are some worthwhile neighbourhoods for expats to consider. 

Boulevard Ring

Patriarshiye Prudy

Patriarshiye Prudy is a calm and quiet residential neighbourhood close to the centre of Moscow. It's expensive but popular with both expats and locals. It's conveniently located close to metro stations and offers direct access to the main city traffic routes. A beautiful city park with a pond is the focal point. Plenty of restaurants, theatres, embassies and museums are in the vicinity.

Tverskoy District

The most central and lively of Moscow’s expat residential areas, Tverskoy District is centred around Tverskaya Street, which connects the Red Square and the Kremlin to the far north of the city. This area is convenient as it’s close to all transport routes and attractions, but it can get noisy. Some of its side streets, such as Kamergersky Lane, boast beautiful housing in quieter, more charming areas.

Garden Ring

Arbat District

Arbat is centrally located and is widely considered to be the most attractive and architecturally beautiful area of Moscow. There is a lot to see and do in Arbat. The area is located next to the golden dome of the Christ the Saviour Cathedral and is dotted with Art Nouveau buildings and trendy modern residences. This is a premium area popular among expat executives and is consequently extremely expensive.

Zamoskvorechye District

Zamoskvorechye, home of the Tretyakov Gallery, is an area known for its central location and attractive two- and three-storey buildings. The main roads of Pyatnitskaya and Ordynka are busy, but the quieter offshoots are more congenial. The area has a lively nightlife with plenty of cafés, cinemas, boutique bars and coffee shops.

Third Ring

Presnensky District

Situated just outside of the Garden Ring, in the northwest of the city, is the Presnensky District. Accommodation here is good value for money and, as a result, has become home to many expats. The Moscow Zoo and the Embassy of the United States are also located here, and access to public transport is nearby.  

Khamovniki District

Centred around the Frunzenskaya Embankment, the Khamovniki District has lots of greenery and a park-like feel to it. The area is hemmed in by the Moscow River and overlooks Gorky Park. It is most popular among families with children, but apartments in the area tend to be small and are expensive.

Tagansky District

Positioned to the east of the Garden Ring, this old Moscow area was originally encircled by monasteries. Today the area is home to many businesses and a lively nightlife district. The accommodation in Tagansky Area is good value for money, but it can be noisy in the evenings.

Beyond the Third Ring

Leningradsky Prospekt

Leningradsky Prospekt is a busy avenue that runs up from Tverskaya Street. Parts of it have long been associated with artists and bohemians. The ‘Artist’s Village’ still exists, and is a popular choice for expats who prefer a quirky, eccentric neighbourhood feel. The only drawback is the relatively long commute to the city centre during rush hour.

Pokrovsky Hills

In Pokrovsky Hills, expats will find one of the well-known gated communities and secure compounds in Moscow. This type of accommodation is popular among expat families in Moscow. It is situated northwest of the city and is conveniently located near the Anglo-American School of Moscow for expats with school-aged children.