Sergey Mikhailovich Brin was born in Moscow to Michael and Eugenia Brin, both Jewish graduates of Moscow State University. His father was a mathematician, and his mother a researcher. The Brin family faced antisemitism in the Soviet Union, fueling their desire to emigrate.

Facing increasing societal and professional limitations due to their Jewish heritage, the Brin family emigrated to the United States when Sergey was six years old. This move provided Sergey with access to better educational opportunities and a less restrictive environment to pursue his intellectual interests.