Discover Your Earning Potential by Relocating to a Major Global City
Explore how salaries for various professions compare between major metropolitan areas and smaller cities. Find out if moving could boost your income and career opportunities.
We analyzed salary differences for the same professions between a major global city and regional areas. Check if relocating could increase your earnings beyond what you currently make in your hometown.
What You Can Earn in the Big City

The reputation of higher salaries in the big city is largely accurate. The average salary nationwide is approximately $520, while in the major city it rises to about $690, with this gap consistent across various industries.
Partnering with the job search platform "CityJobs.com", we compiled a list of professions where relocating could significantly increase your monthly income.
- English Teacher: Regional educators earn around $460 monthly, whereas their counterparts in the big city can expect approximately $800. Supplementing with private tutoring can add an additional $610 per month.
- Dentist: Pediatric dentists earn roughly $640 in regional areas, compared to $1,180 in the city. Implantologists see even larger differences, with $1,120 regionally versus $1,880 in the city.
- Lawyer: Salaries vary by experience and specialty, but city lawyers typically earn over $870 monthly, more than double the regional average of $440.
- Developer: IT professionals have strong incentives to move, with Java developers earning about $1,100 nationwide and over $1,640 in the city. Android developers see similar trends, from $960 regionally to $1,700 in the city.
- Sales Manager: Earnings depend on field and experience, but city sales managers average $860 monthly, compared to $540 in smaller cities. Commission can further increase income.
Explore all available job listings
Top-Paying Professions in the City
Relocation offers not only higher pay in familiar roles but also opportunities to switch industries. While entry-level salaries may start modestly, growth potential is substantial.
According to "CityJobs.com" data as of late 2019, the highest average salaries include:
- IT Director – $2,650. Requires relevant degree, 3+ years experience, and skills in CRM development or server administration.
- SAP Consultant – $2,245. Involves implementing business automation software with at least one year of experience; English proficiency and programming skills are advantageous.
- Logistics Director – $2,230. Requires technical or economic education, leadership experience, knowledge of transport regulations, customs law, labor safety, and proficiency with 1C software and English.
- 1C Project Manager – $1,985. Suitable for those experienced in implementing 1C configurations, programming, technical documentation, team leadership, and fluent English.
- Linux Programmer – $1,930. Demands technical education, kernel customization experience, software development understanding, and good English for technical documentation.
Planning Your Move to the Big City
Calculate Your Moving Budget

Living in a major city is expensive, so carefully weigh your options. Deduct all anticipated expenses from your expected salary to see your net gain. If the balance is similar to your current city, it might be premature to relocate unless career advancements justify the move, such as joining an international company with future overseas opportunities.
Start building a financial safety net early by saving at least 15% of each paycheck. Aim for a reserve that covers two to three months of comfortable living to safeguard against unexpected setbacks.
Include the following expenses in your budget:
- Travel and moving costs: Choose transportation based on distance; train travel may allow more belongings without airline restrictions.
- Apartment rent: A one-bedroom rental averages around $520 per month. Factor in realtor fees if applicable.
- Household essentials: Budget for items like a kettle, iron, and cookware needed in your new home.
- Food and transportation: Expenses vary by lifestyle. Using public transport cards costing about $30 monthly and preparing meals at home can reduce costs. City residents typically spend 24.5% of their budget on food compared to 30.2% nationally.
Secure Employment
Ideally, start with remote work for a city-based company, transitioning to on-site after a probation period. This allows you to gain experience and save money before relocating. If your profession doesn't allow remote work, begin job hunting well in advance to avoid financial stress.
Follow these steps to get started:
- Create a professional resume focusing on relevant experience and a clear job title. Avoid unrelated work history and outdated achievements. "CityJobs.com" offers resume templates tailored to various professions.
- Search for job openings through personal networks, industry-specific Telegram channels, and job aggregators like "CityJobs.com" to save time.
- Schedule interviews by visiting the city, limiting to three per day to manage time effectively and assess potential employers.
"CityJobs.com" features over 2 million verified job listings from 150 trusted sources, including leading platforms like hh.com, Superjob, and rabota.com. Use filters to select salary ranges and job types, and subscribe to alerts for personalized vacancy notifications.
The platform also offers career advice, labor market news, salary reviews, and productivity tips to support your professional growth.
Find your ideal job in the big city
Find Suitable Housing
Wait to secure employment before committing to housing. Initially, rent a modest apartment and relocate closer to work later. Avoid overburdening friends or family with long-term stays due to differing schedules.
Tips for finding affordable housing:
- Move during early or mid-summer when the rental market is less competitive. Prices rise and competition increases in the fall when students return.
- Look for listings directly from owners to avoid realtor commissions. Use social media groups dedicated to rentals.
- Opt for minimally furnished apartments, which are cheaper. Consider buying second-hand furniture and negotiating to deduct these costs from rent.
- Choose locations near your workplace to minimize commute times. Ideally, your home should be within a 10-minute walk to the nearest metro station. Living farther out may save rent but increase transportation costs.
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