Denmark is part of Scandinavia and consists of Jutland, a promontory north of Germany and over 400 islands. Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark sits on Zealand, the largest island. The country is known for it social policies, freedom of speech and its relaxed atmosphere. Denmark is an extremely flat country, with fertile soil, making it perfect for farming. It’s 4,660 mile coastline lends itself to fishing and the country is now one of the world’s biggest exporters and importers of fish and seafood and has a large number of fish processing plants in the north and west of Jutland. Denmark’s history is long, making it a fascinating country to explore, while enjoying the culture and lifestyle of the former Vikings.
If you are considering moving to Denmark, the various costs listed below will help you make an informed decision on what costs are involved when moving and living in this part of the world.
Quick Denmark Facts:
- Population: 5,841,141(2022 estimate)
- Official Language:Danish is the official language of Denmark. However, 86% of Danes speak English as a second language.
- GDP Per Capita:US$67,802.05 (2021)
- Bicycles: Denmark has over 7,500 miles of cycle tracks. Nine out of every 10 Danes owns at least one bike. Over 50% of the population cycle to and from work every day rather than use their cars. Cycling continues to be popular during the snowy winters.
- Currency: The Danish Krone (DKK/KR). As of 2022, 1DDK=US$0.05558, £0.11629, €0.134471, $0.187616 (CAD), and $0.209078 (AUD).
1. Moving and Shipping Costs to Denmark
Below are sample conatiner shipping costs to Denmark from other ports around the world priced in USD.
2. Denmark Housing Costs
Houses and apartments are in short supply in Denmark, especially in the major cities, they are also very expensive. When renting, you’ll have the option of furnished or unfurnished properties which can be extremely helpful if you’ve just arrived in the country. The high cost of property has seen a culture of house and flat sharing emerge on a large scale.
Monthly Rental Prices in Denmark
- 1 bedroom apartment in the city centre: DKK4,600.00 – DKK14,000.00
- 1 bedroom apartment outside the city centre: DKK3,500.00 – DKK 10,000.00
- 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre: DKK8,500.00 – DKK20,000.00
- 3-bedroom apartment outside the city centre: DKK6,500.00 – DKK 16,000.00
- Price per square metre (10.7 square feet) to buy in the city centre: DKK20,000.00 – DKK62,000.00
- Price per square metre (10.7 square feet) to buy outside the city centre: DKK15,000.00 – DKK45,000.00
Source: Numbeo
Denmark Housing Cost Comparison
Below are how rents in Denmark compare with other countries around the globe.
United Kingdom is 3.88% more expensive
United States is 58.63% more expensive
Canada is 13.16% more expensive
Australia is 18.50% more expensive
France is 16.07% cheaper
Spain is 28.31% cheaper
Italy is 32.12% cheaper
Germany is 12.98% cheaper
Source: Numbeo
How to Save on Housing Costs
- Share an apartment or house. Have a look at the following sites to find your perfect room or flatmate: Find roommate, Erasmusu, Iroommates, Flatmatesand OK Roommate.
- Different areas – different prices. Housing costs in major cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus are expensive. However, suburbs in many cities, like Horsens, Esbjerg, and Randers, are more affordable. Accommodation is also cheaper in Langeland, Southern Zealand, Falster, and Lolland.
3. Denmark Food, Grocery and Restaurant Costs
Food is a very important part of Denmark’s social scene, and this small country has 28 Michelin starred restaurants to prove its commitment. Fish obviously features heavily on menus and in the supermarkets and local markets, but Denmark embraces food traditions from all over the globe. That said, eating out and food in general are expensive in Denmark
- Inexpensive Restaurant: DKK85.00 – DKK250.00
- Domestic beer: DKK30.00 – DKK62.00
- Coke/Pepsi: DKK15.00 – DK K35.00
- 1L of milk: DKK9.00 – DKK14.25
- Loaf of Bread: DKK9.00 – DKK35.00
- 12 Eggs: DKK14.40 – DKK36.00
- 1kg Chicken Fillets: DKK39.00 – DKK104.46
- 1kg Beef: DKK50.00 – DKK200.00
- 1kg Apples: DKK10.00 – DKK25.00
- 1kg White Rice: DKK10.00 – DKK 23.00
Source: Numbeo
Below are how food prices and restaurants compare with other major countries in the world.
- UKrestaurants are 58% cheaper and groceries are 21.69% cheaper than in Denmark.
- United State restaurants are 12% cheaper and groceries are 17.16% more expensive than in Denmark.
- Canada restaurants are 83% cheaper and groceries are 5.37% more expensive in Denmark.
- Australia restaurants are75% cheaper and groceries are 15.75% more expensive than in Denmark.
- France restaurants are 22% cheaper and groceries are 4.27% more expensive than in Denmark.
- Spain restaurants are 47% cheaper and groceries are 34.50% cheaper than in Denmark.
- Italy restaurants are 85% cheaper and groceries are 16.66% cheaper than in Denmark.
- Germanyrestaurants are 50% cheaper and groceries are 19.28% cheaper than in Denmark.
Source: Numbeo
Bonus Tips for Cheaper Food, Restaurants and Groceries
- Know your supermarkets: Denmark has a large selection of supermarkets, independently owned grocers and organic food stores. There are excellent farmers’ markets in all the towns and cities in Denmark which sell locally grown produce and fresh fish and seafood. Popular supermarkets in Denmark are Aldi Supermarket, Fotex Supermarket, Super Brugsenand Irma Supermarket.
- Find Cheap Eats:Browse the internet to find restaurants and supermarkets that are offering specials. Have a look at the following sites for suggestions – Expato Life, Visit Denmark, Trip Advisor, Visit Copenhagen, and Early Bird.
4. Denmark Alcohol Costs
Drinking alcohol is part of Denmark’s social scene, playing an important role in social events with friends and family. Akvavit (schnapps) is Denmark’s chosen drink for toasts and celebrations. Beer (Carlsberg, of course) is a Dane’s daily go-to drink. Wine is also enjoyed regularly, with Denmark producing its own good wines. Cherry Heering is probably one of the world’s most well known cherry liqueurs and has been drunk in Denmark for over 200 years. Liqueurs and spirits can be expensive in Denmark but beer is surprisingly affordable.
- Bottle of imported beer at a restaurant/pub: DKK30.00 – DKK60.00
- Pint (0.5L) domestic beer at a restaurant/pub: DKK30.00 – DKK62.00
- Pint (0.5L) domestic beer at a supermarket: DKK6.00 – DKK20.00
- Bottle of imported beer at a supermarket: DKK8.00 – DKK25.00
- Mid-range bottle of wine at a supermarket: DKK45.00 – DKK100.00
Source: Numbeo
How to drink for less in Denmark
- Scour the internet for advertised specials at your favourite bars and clubs. Keep an eye out for flyers and adverts in newspapers. You can also ask people who’ve lived in your area for a while.
- Most bars and restaurants in the major towns have early evening happy hours where you can buy two-for-one drinks. Have a look at the following sites for more tips on where to go to save money on a night out – Four Square, YELP, City Seeker, Expato Life, and The Culture Trip.
5. Denmark Transportation Fares
Denmark has a modern and well developed public transport system with excellent routes by air, sea, and land. The railway and metro are operated by DSB. SJ operates the rail services from Denmark to Sweden.
Coach and bus routes cover most of the Denmark and other major European cities. This mode of transport affordable and convenient. There are also ferry and boat services to connect numerous islands in the country. Have a look at the following websites for detailed information on getting around Denmark by public transport – Visit Denmark and Fyidenmark.
Below are some example ticket costs.
- One-way ticket (Local transport: DKK20.00 – DKK34.00
- Monthly Pass, (Regular Price): DKK380.00 – DKK800.00
- Taxi start (normal tariff): DKK35.00 – DKK80.00
- Taxi 1km (normal tariff): DKK350.00 – DKK720.00
Source: Numbeo
How to save money on public transport
- Train and bus network across Denmark is the best and most affordable along with metro service in Copenhagen.
- Buy a Copenhagen Card for 24/48 or 120 hours City Pass
- Buy or rent a bicycle.
- Walk
6. Cost of Internet in Denmark
Denmark has excellent, high-speed internet. Here are some sample broadband internet prices from late 2022 for unlimited downloads, based on a 12-month contract:
7. Cost of Clothing, Personal Items, Gym and Leisure
Denmark has a temperate and coastal climate with pleasant and cool summers and moderately cold winters. The average summer temperature in the country is 22C and the hottest month is July. The coldest month in Denmark is February with an average temperature of 0 degrees C. Much of Denmark receives between 20 to 25 days of snow during the winter. August is the wettest month in the country and the annual average rainfall in Denmark is 746 mm.
Below are some clothing prices, together with other useful prices.
- Pair of Jeans: DKK350.00 – DKK1,000.00
- Summer Dress: DKK150.00 – DKK500.00
- Running Shoes (Trainers): DKK450.00 – DKK1,000.00
- Business Shoes: DKK520.57 – DKK1,400.00
- Short Doctor’s visit (15 mins): DKK400
- Deodorant: DKK32
- Shampoo: DKK28
- Toilet Paper (4 rolls): DKK11
- Gym membership per month: DKK150.00 – DKK350.00
- Movie (cinema) ticket: DKK90.00 – DKK150.00
Source: Numbeo and Expatistan
8. Cost of Owning a Car and Driving a Car in Denmark
The majority of Danes own and drive a car but, those living in major cities, tend to use them only on weekends and for trips away. Even though the process for buying a new vehicle in Denmark is simple, many people prefer to keep their old vehicles or lease vehicles due to the high taxes levied new cars – anywhere from 105% to 150% of the car’s value.
You can drive on your home country’s driving licence for up to 180 days after which you need to get a Danish driving licence. Refer to the following site to learn more about driving in Denmark – International.kk.dk. For more information on renting, leasing or importing a vehicle go to Life in Denmark.
Here are some other sample costs of owning and operating a car in Denmark:
- Volkswagen Golf: DKK250,000.00 – 313,995.00
- 1 litre (¼ gallon) of gas (petrol):DKK13.37 – 17.00
- Other fees (if any):The car registration tax in Denmark is a minimum of 45% on the value of the car price of up to DKK12,100. As the total cost of your car increases the tax percentage reduces and when the amount reaches or is above DKK250,000 the tax is 2%. Exchanging your driving license in Denmark costs around DKK250.
Source: Expatistan, Quick Import, The Local.
Ways to save money driving in Denmark
- Car sharing or pooling is a good option to save money. Try Nabogo, Share Traveler, Lets Go, Carpooling Komboand Apps Crip.
- Taxis can be a cheaper option, especially if you are parking all day. Try Apps Crip.
Need your car/vehicle moved to Denmark? Then read our guide to Car Transport & Vehicle Shipping
9. Taxes in Denmark
Denmark has a complex tax system. If you are planning to live and work in Denmark for over six months, then you come under the full tax liability label – see Taxback. Expats who are employed in Denmark can pay a flat rate of 27% on their income for up to 84 months.
Property tax in Denmark is 0.92% of the total value of property up to DKK3,040,000 and 3% of the value of property over that amount. For more information, refer Tax Summaries.
VAT in Denmark is 25% but there are exemptions on various goods and services, such as food and energy bills, where 0% VAT is applied.
10. Flight Costs from Denmark
If you do make the move to Denmark, here’s approximately how much it will cost to fly to other major world cities based on the lowest, one-way fares from Skyscanner as of 2022:
- London: DKK177
- Paris: DKK180
- New York: DKK2,944
- Los Angeles: DKK3,177
- Toronto: DKK3,220
- Dubai: DKK1,363
- Sydney: DKK4,280
- Melbourne: DKK4,445
- Cape Town: DKK3,201
- Hong Kong: DKK2, 988
Other Denmark Relocation Tips
The above costs and pricing should give you a good idea of the cost of living in Denmark. But perhaps the following extra tips will make your move go smoothly.
11. Relocating to Denmark Alone
Moving abroad is stressful but moving alone can be exceptionally difficult. Denmark and its friendly and welcoming people will help you ease into your new life. Here are a few tips about settling in Denmark.
- Meetups:Connect with like souls through Meetup to join groups enjoying the same pastimes that you enjoy. Plus, you can try something new.
- Attend local events: Danes will find anything excuse for a celebration. There is always something going on in Denmark and many of the activities are free. Have a look at the following sites for inspiration – TripAdvisor, Travel Triangle, World Festivals, I Exploreand Visit Nordic.
12. Moving to Denmark with a Family
Moving abroad with a family is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but Denmark has a lot to attract families and help them settle quickly. There’s countryside to explore, by car, bike or on foot. There are historical sites, museums, zoos, the beach, the snow and, of course, Legoland and Legohouse.
- New parents (or parents-to-be):Joins groups such as Expat Parents in Denmark, Devex, Mothers Union, and Facebook for advice, courses and ways to meet other parents or parents-to-be.
- Live in a family-friendly area:Neighbourhoods like Frederiksberg, Nyhavn, Osterbro, East Amager, and Indre are some of the most popular areas in Copenhagen for families. The towns of Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg, Vejle, Esbjerg, and Horsens are also great choices for families.
- Find things to do with the kids:Denmark has lots for children to do. Have a look at the following website for inspiration – Trip Advisor, Mummy Travels, Inspirock, Kiddy Charts and Visit Denmark.
13. Moving to Denmark for Work
Moving to a new country for work is one of the most common reasons people choose to move. While it is possible to move without a job, it makes sense to ensure there are jobs in your field before you make the move.
Denmark is a tourist destination and employs many people in the service industry. Other sectors that area looking for talented people include IT, engineering, medicine, finance, construction and transport and logistics.
Here are a few things to consider when moving for work:
- Salary:The costs we outlined above should give you a rough idea, how much more you’ll want to be making to make the move worthwhile. You can also check salary ranges on sites such as Glassdoor and Payscale.
- How to find work: If you want to have a job lined up before you move to Denmark, but aren’t sure where to begin, the following sites are good places to start: Work in Denmark, Indeed, LinkedIn, The Localand Career Builder. You may also want to Google recruiters in your industry, as they can often help land you some initial interviews as well.
14. Moving to Denmark from Australia
There are currently 2,479 Australians are living in Denmark. If you are thinking of moving from Australia to Denmark, here are a few things to consider.
- Size comparison:Australia is 180 times bigger than Denmark. The population of Australia is 25,890,773 whereas the population of Denmark is 5,841,141.
- Join expat groups:MeetUp, Internations and Facebook offer ways of meeting up with other Australians in Denmark.
15. Moving to Denmark from Canada
There’s a small group of Canadians living in Denmark. If you’re considering making the move from Canada here are a few things to consider.
- Size:Canada is 232 times bigger than Denmark. The population of Canada is 38,929,902 whereas the population of Denmark is 5,841,141.
- Expat groups:Meeting up with fellow Canadians helps the moving process. Link up through sites such as Internations and MeetUp.
16. Moving to Denmark from the United Kingdom
14,811 Brits are currently living in Denmark. If you’re considering joining them, here are a few bonus tips:
- Size: The UK is 6 times bigger than Denmark. The population of the UK is 68,730,050 whereas the population of Denmark is 5,841,141.
- Expat groups:Connect with fellow Brits in Denmark through Internations and MeetUp.
Hopefully, the tips and costs above are helpful. If want to get started pricing out how much it will cost you to move to Denmark you can start by comparing moving quotes here.
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