Rent spikes in Georgia and Armenia as Russians flee fearing mobilisation

Rental prices in Georgia and Armenia rose 20–30% year on year over the summer as Russians fearing a new wave of mobilisation for Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine sought accommodation in former Soviet republics where they can stay without a visa. Georgia remains the most accessible destination: Russian citizens can stay for up to 360 days without a visa and reset the clock with a brief visit to a neighbouring country. Tens of thousands now live there. In Tbilisi, monthly rents for standard housing start at €450–730, rising to €910–2,700 or more for larger flats or upmarket apartments. The average nominal monthly wage in Georgia stands at around 2,165 lari, or roughly €750, according to the National Statistics Office.