Live in Copenhagen
Photo: Map of Denmark.
If you happen to fall in love and want to stay in Copenhagen for a longer period of time this will not be a problem: As long as you are from the European Union. Europeans are allowed to stay in Denmark and work for an unlimited time. If you are from anywhere else the procedures are quite different and you’ll have to contact the ministry of foreign affairs.
Copenhagen is a great city to live in – surrounded by water, with loads of parks and canals the city is green and open. The municipality has done a lot to clean up the city, building new roads and decreasing heavy traffic. The university provides a huge group of young people who help keep the city alive, while the many great art museums and exhibition places keep the cultural scene vibrant. All Danes speak English at a very high level so you’ll have no problem communicating, though getting a job will be a lot easier if you learn the basics or if you are a native English speaker.
Living expenses
The downside to a life in Copenhagen is the rather steep living expenses and Copenhagen has been rated one of Europe’s most expensive cities to live in – this is not only due to the high apartment prices but also due to the 25% tax on all goods – from food to socks. On the upside, Danish salaries are also in the top of the class, but taxes will take off 40-60% of your income. This means that you have free health care, free roads and free public schools, high schools and universities.
Cheapest neighbourhood
The cheapest neighborhood in Copenhagen is Nørrebro. Here the students, foreigners and workers congregate in brownstone buildings, and Nørrebro has a really nice vibe once you get familiar with it. Østerbro is the most expensive place to live and the inhabitants are posh and not afraid to flaunt their Versace, Donna Karen etc outfits. Prize-wise, the inner city is the second runner up. In general, housing is expensive in Copenhagen and a one bedroom apartment ranges from €400-€600 and a two bedroom apartment will cost you from €650, if you are lucky, to €1000. If you are looking for cheap accommodations, Sydhavnen is also a safe, however not very charming, bet. Vesterbro will cost you, but the area is full of life, bars and restaurants.
Visiting European cities on a tight budget? Check out our other dirt cheap guides!
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