To live in a hostel in Russia is not terrible, than in any other country. Inter alia, in many cities we have hostels at a very decent level, can say from personal experience stops in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk. Most hostels have several dozen reviews, on which you can make up their minds about it and decide, whether or not to stop there. Many hostels customers can order not only bed in the family room, but also a separate room. For girls there is a special separate rooms. Overall, to live in a hostel is not less safe, than the usual hotel room.