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Cost of Living in Finland

Updated on 21 November, 2023

Shivangi Mishra

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

Did you know that Finland has been ranked as the world’s safest, freest, most stable, and happiest country by the World Economic Forum? Keeping this in mind, moving to Finland can prove to be a wise decision from both the perspectives of personal and professional lives.

One of the best educational systems in the world is found in Finland. One of the best places to study abroad, it is home to a diverse population and is a center for excellent professional prospects.

Coming to study in Finland is undoubtedly exciting. Imagine the new environment, modern cities, social activities, and more you will encounter. Aside from a stimulating experience and new learnings, it is best to plan ahead of time for the costs of living in Finland. If you are considering moving there, it is essential to understand the cost of living in the country.

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Best Cities in Finland for International students-

Finland has been rated as the best place to study by International students in Europe. Here are some of the best student-friendly cities in Finland for pursuing higher education

Helsinki -One of the most well-liked cities in Europe for international students is the capital of Finland. The University of Helsinki and Aalto University, two of Finland’s top universities, as well as a number of others, are located here. It is among the top 75 student cities in the world according to the QS Best Student Cities due to its top-notch universities and good quality of life.

Turku– The second and third-oldest universities in Finland are located in Turku, a city in southwest Finland known as the “old capital.” These universities are the Swedish-language Bo Akademi and the University of Turku, which is ranked third in the world by QS.

Oulu – Talented individuals from all over the world come to work in the research facilities and science parks in Oulu, which is also well renowned as a top technological hub. With an average yearly temperature of just 2°C (36°F) due to the city’s subarctic environment, anyone considering spending more than a few months studying in Oulu should be ready for a rather harsh winter. In the worldwide rankings, the University of Oulu is Finland’s sixth-best representation.

A Guide to Average Costs of Living in Finland 

Wondering what is the minimum living expenses in Finland for a student? Here we are taking into account cities in Finland with low cost of living and those with skyrocketing costs to arrive at an average threshold. This list of items with costs will help you greatly when it comes to delineating the actual costs that you have to make provisions for.

1. Average Rent in Finland

An accommodation varies depending on the region and the type of location a student chooses. The more rural regions are comparatively cheaper, whereas modern areas such as Helsinki and Espoo would cost higher. The cost of living in Finland for students varies based on whether a student decides to live on-campus or off-campus.

Type of accommodationAverage monthly rent*
Apartment (1 bedroom) in city Centre€795.75
Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of Centre€646.74
Apartment (3 bedroom) in city Centre€1268.57
Apartment (3 bedroom )outside of Centre€986.42

2. University Tuition Fee in Finland

 Tuition fees consume the most significant portion of the budget. However, it varies from university to university, location and the program you have chosen to study. The minimum tuition fee set by the Finnish government is around 1500 € per year for bachelor and master programs, but most study programs charge tuition above this amount.

UniversityAverage annual fee(€)*
University of Helsinki (UH)Fees from 13000 to €18000 per year
Vaasa UniversityFees from 10000 to €12000 per year
Tampere  UniversityFees from 8000 to €12000 per year 
Arcade UniversityFees from 4650 to €10060 per year

3. Food cost in Finland

Food itemsAverage cost*
Milk ( regular) (1 litre)€1.00
Loaf of fresh white bread (500g)€2.24
Rice (white) (1kg)€2.17
Eggs (regular) (12)€2.63
Apple (1kg)€2.27
Banana (1kg)€1.68
Tomato  (1 kg)€3.57
Water (1.5 litre bottle )€1.54
Local cheese (1kg)€7.26


4. Transportation costs in Finland 

Types of expensesCost*

One way ticket 

 

(Local transport)

€3.00

Monthly pass 

 

(Regular price)

€60.00
Taxi start                                      (Normal Tariff)€6.90
Taxi 1km                                          (Normal Tariff)€1.55

Taxi 1 hour waiting   

 

( Normal Tariff)                                    

€47.04

Gasoline 

 

(1 litre)

€2.16

5. Average Utilities

Types of expensesCost*

Basic

 

(Electricity, Heating,Cooling water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartments

€115.51

1min of prepaid mobile tariff local

 

(No discounts or plans)

€0.07

Internet

 

(60Mbps or more, unlimited data ,cable/ADSL)

€21.42

Source: *Numbeo

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Tips to Save Money in Finland

While visiting Finland, you can always follow some helpful advice to increase your savings. The following are some of them.

  1. Prepare a budget– Students’ food expenses in Finland will be fairly high if they frequently eat out, purchase high-end and organic foods, and shop for foreign goods. With some preparation, they can cut back on eating out and going to cafés and bars to save money.
  2. Eat at a canteen –  The government of Finland encourages students to eat healthily. With less than 3 euros, you may have a filling and wholesome meal. Campuses frequently have multiple canteens where a wide selection of warm foods, salads, soups, and sandwiches are available.
  3. Flash your student card-A student card will make your daily life more economical. There are many different student discounts and amenities available in Finland. For instance, student health care is free, and university sport centers have absurdly cheap membership costs. Public transportation costs half as much, and a lot of retailers, eateries, and service providers provide discounts to clients who present a student ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum living cost in Finland for International students?

The minimum living cost in Finland is at least 560€ every month.

What are the average transportation costs in Finland?

One-way tickets (Local transport) is €3.00 and for monthly pass the regular price is €60.

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!

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