Effect of the Crisis on the Level and Quality of Life

The author examines trends in the distribution of wages, business incomes, and social benefits in 2009 and estimates the distribution of per capita household incomes across various social groups. Distinctive characteristics of the Russian economy are revealed. These predetermine that, in the economy's present condition, the social consequences of the financial and economic crisis in 2009 have not been overly dramatic. Factors are identified that prevent a rapid reversal of the negative situation, especially in the labor market and household incomes.