Moscow vs Shanghai - City Size Comparison

Is Moscow Bigger Than Shanghai?

Shanghai is significantly larger, covering 2.5 times the area of Moscow. Shanghai spans 6,341 km² (2,448 mi²) while Moscow covers 2,511 km² (970 mi²) — a difference of 3,830 km². You could fit Moscow inside Shanghai approximately 2 times.

About Moscow

Russia's capital and largest city. Known as "The Third Rome", Moscow covers 2,511 km² with a population of 12.5 million. The city was established in 1147. Moscow is known for The Kremlin, Red Square, Saint Basil's Cathedral, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Moscow Metro.

Moscow's metro stations are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, often called 'underground palaces'

About Shanghai

China's largest city and a global financial hub. Often called "The Pearl of the Orient", Shanghai has an area of 6,341 km² and is home to 24.9 million people. Its history stretches back to 1291. Visitors come for The Bund waterfront, Pudong skyline, Yuyuan Garden, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Shanghai Metro.

Shanghai's Maglev train reaches 431 km/h, the fastest commercial train in the world

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Shanghai metropolitan area covers 6,341 km², which is 1.1x larger than greater Moscow at 5,891 km². The Shanghai metro area is also more populous, with 28.5 million people compared to 17.1 million.

Population Density

Moscow has a population density of 4,994 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Shanghai, with 3,922 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Both cities have comparable density, though Moscow is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Moscow has a humid continental climate while Shanghai experiences humid subtropical conditions. Summers are notably different: Shanghai averages 28°C compared to 19°C in Moscow. When it's noon in Shanghai, it's 7:00 AM in Moscow — a 5-hour time difference.