The article deals with some results of an empirical research of ethnic preferences hierarchy and cultural distance carried out among the following ethnic groups – Moldovans, Russians, Bulgarians, Gagauz, and Ukrainians. The relevant ethnic markers making the in-group akin are the territory, common historic past, religion, for the out-group these are religion and common location. According to the ethnic preferences hierarchy all the groups prefer their own one, or on the level of proclamation share it with the group of Russians (Gagauz, Ukrainians). The research results are highly important for the elaboration of the civil education programs for the young people.