The number of lonely people in Russia has increased.

      According to the results of a survey conducted by VCIOM, nearly half of Russians (45%) note an increase in the number of people living alone. A year earlier, this figure was 40%. At the same time, the majority of respondents—75%—are confident that loneliness is more often not a conscious choice, but a consequence of life circumstances. In addition, 66% of respondents believe that a person who lives alone and manages their household independently cannot be called a family. Opinions on the financial aspect of the issue are divided. Thus, 43% of survey participants believe that living alone is more expensive, while another 42% think it is cheaper. Among the reasons for the increase in expenses are the lack of joint savings, high housing costs, and mandatory payments. At the same time, some Russians note the advantages of single life: fewer obligations, more control over personal budgets and expenses. The survey was conducted on April 2 among 1,600 adult residents of Russia. The margin of error does not exceed 2.5%.