Interregional comparison of some living standard indicators (by the example of the steppe regions of the European part of Russia)

The current state of the population income is characterized by high polarization, resulting in growing problems in the social sphere, which can lead to instability and unrest in society. In this regard, the state pays special attention to the growth of the population well-being: the growth of the standard and quality of life, as well as the population income, are defined as strategically important areas for the development of our state. By the level of differentiation of the structure of consumer spending, we can talk about the degree of development of individual territories, and, accordingly, about the living standard of the population. Consumer behavior is one of the main indicators of the living standard, which is the main factor in the migration motivations of young people. Using the example of the steppe zone of European Russia, territorial features of the material situation of the population in the peripheral regions of the country are revealed. The object of the study is the material well-being of the population, expressed through the income and expenses of the population, as well as the structure of consumer behavior. The study is based on data from the federal and regional state statistics services for 2000-2021. By means of analysis, as well as graphic and cartographic methods, the consumer behavior of the population in terms of the living standard, income and expenses of the steppe regions of the European part of Russia was assessed, and trends in its change for 2000–2021 were determined. The study revealed significant differences in the level of material well-being between the regions of the steppe zone. A widespread increase in per capita income and expenditure of the population over the study period was noted. Regional specificity of food consumption was revealed. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that food consumption of the population reflects the level of population wellbeing. The rating of regions by the level of material well-being generally corresponds to the differentiation of subjects by per capita consumer income and expenditure.

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