Tips & Advice on Moving to Moscow?

Hello, Im contemplating a move to Moscow for work.

At the moment due to some commitements here in England its likely to be around June/July 2014 when id make the move. Ive had a look through all the topics available on this website but wanted to get a better idea of what its like to actually live in Moscow? I guess some of things im most interested in are...

- Moving out there, any key tips/advice? things to do before moving out? - Cost of living, from my understanding and research ive conducted it seems that rental prices would be my main concern when compared to living in Manchester. But wondered if anybody had an idea of what would be a good salary to live comfortably in a 1/2 bedroom apartment in the city centre (preferably western style apartment). - Language, ive started to try and pick up some russian and the cyrillac alphabet but wondered how people got in living in moscow. Id like to learn russian to a half decent standard just to make day to day life more comfortable. Im sure ill have more questions along the way - but thanks in advance for any help.

Thanks Matt