The article analyzes the current tendencies of economic development of Russia from the point of view of their influence on the social situation of the population. It examines the main risks that could affect the deterioration of this situation and possible consequences of their realization. The conclusion is that the social model, which is characterized by very high potential adaptability and does not motivate people to move to nationwide open protests, continues to operate in Russia. Only elite groups of Russian society can become the source of radical change provoked by growing economic problems.