In this article, we discuss Cost of Living in Finland.
Finland, located in Northern Europe, is known for its high standard of living and high-quality education system. Finland is counted among the best countries for studying in Europe for international students not only due to its excellent education system and the presence of world-renowned universities but also for its beauty, student-friendliness and safety. It is also one of the happiest countries to study abroad and warm-heartedly welcomes students from around the world every year! 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 wondering how much it costs to live in Finland, you have come to the right place! Take a look at this article to know all about the Cost of Living in Finland!
What Will Be the Estimated Cost of Living in Finland?
If you are a student considering studying in Finland, it's important to have a good understanding of the cost of living. Given below is the overview of the cost of living in Finland for students-
Accommodation Costs:
Housing can be one of the biggest expenses for students in Finland. The cost of renting a room or apartment can vary depending on the location and quality of the accommodation. In Helsinki, the capital city, the cost of accommodation is generally higher than in other cities in Finland.
On-campus accommodation is available at many universities in Finland, with prices ranging from €300 to €800 per month (26K-70K). Alternatively, students can also rent a room or apartment off-campus. In Helsinki, a shared apartment can cost between €300 and €600 per month (25K-55K), while a studio apartment can range from €600 to €1,000 per month (55K-90K). In other cities, prices can be lower, with a shared apartment costing between €200 and €400 per month (17K-35K).
Food Costs:
The cost of food in Finland can be higher than in some other European countries. However, there are many healthy and organic options available, and the quality of the food is generally high.
As a student, you can save money on food by cooking your meals at home. A typical weekly grocery bill for one person can range from €30 to €70 (2K-6K), depending on the type of food you buy and where you shop.
Eating out at restaurants and cafes can be expensive, with a meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costing around €50-€70 (4K-6K). However, many restaurants offer student discounts, which can help reduce costs.
Transportation Costs:
Public transportation in Finland is efficient and reliable, with a range of options available, including buses, trains, trams, and metro. As a student, you can benefit from discounted fares on public transportation.
In Helsinki, a single ticket for a bus or tram costs €2.80 (250-255 INR), while a 30-day pass costs €42.50 (3K-4K)for students. In other cities, a single ticket can cost between €2 and €3 (170-180INR), and a 30-day pass can range from €30 to €50 (2K-4K) for students while a 90-day pass costs €73 (6K-7K). In other cities, the cost of a student pass can range from €20 to €50 per month (1700-4000 INR).
If you prefer to cycle, many cities in Finland have excellent cycling infrastructure. You can rent a bike for a reasonable price or purchase a second-hand bike.
Healthcare Costs:
As a student in Finland, you are entitled to free or subsidized healthcare. This includes visits to the doctor, specialist appointments, and hospital care. If you need to purchase medication, the cost is usually covered by the national health insurance system.
Other Expenses:
Other expenses to consider as a student in Finland include textbooks, school supplies, and personal expenses, such as clothing and entertainment.
Textbooks and school supplies can be expensive, with the cost varying depending on your course of study. It's a good idea to check with your institution to see if there are any second-hand bookstores or book exchanges available.
In terms of personal expenses, it's important to budget for clothing, entertainment, and travel expenses. Finland offers many unique cultural experiences, such as visiting the sauna or exploring the country's natural landscapes, but these activities can be costly.
Cost of living in some of the most popular student cities in Finland:
Given below is the Cost of Living in some of the most popular student cities in Finland
- Helsinki €1200-€1800 (1lakh- 1.50 lakhs)
- Tampere €800-€1280 (70K-1.14 lakhs)
- Turku €900-€1480 (80K-1.32 lakhs)
- Oulu €700-€1180 (62K- 1.10 lakhs)
- Jyväskylä €800-€1280 (70K-1.14 lakhs)
- Kuopio €800-€1280 (70k-1.14 lakhs)
10 Key Tips to Reduce Cost of Living in Finland
Here are 10 helpful key tips for lowering your total cost of living in Finland:
- Look for affordable housing options such as shared apartments, student housing, or smaller studio apartments.
- Use public transportation instead of owning a car.
- Shop for groceries at affordable supermarkets.
- Cook at home instead of eating out at restaurants and cafes.
- Take advantage of student discounts for public transportation, entertainment, and cultural events.
- Look for free or low-cost activities, such as visiting parks, museums, and art galleries.
- Avoid unnecessary expenses, such as buying expensive winter clothing that you may only use for a few months of the year.
- Consider buying second-hand furniture or household items instead of buying new ones.
- Choose a part-time job that offers flexible hours and good pay.
- Plan your expenses in advance and set a budget to avoid overspending.
Scholarships you can avail for studying in Finland:
Let’s take a look at some of the scholarships you can avail for studying in Finland:
- Finland Government Scholarships for International Students
- Aalto University Scholarship
- University of Helsinki Scholarships for International Students
- University of Tampere Scholarships for International Students
- CIMO Doctoral Fellowship for International Students
- University of Oulu Masters Scholarships for International Students
- EDUFI Fellowships Program for Young Doctoral Students
- Protein Science International Masters Scholarship at University of Oulu Finland
- University of Helsinki International Student Scholarship Grant
- University of Turku Postdoctoral Research in Science and Medicine
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Conclusion
Finland is a beautiful country with a high standard of living and an excellent education system. While the cost of living in Finland can be relatively high, with careful budgeting and planning, it can be manageable. Housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment are the major expenses to consider when living in Finland. Students can reduce their expenses by looking for affordable housing options, using public transportation, shopping for groceries at affordable supermarkets, cooking at home, taking advantage of student discounts, and avoiding unnecessary expenses. Overall, living in Finland can be a rewarding and enriching experience, and with the right mindset and budgeting skills, students can enjoy everything the country has to offer without breaking the bank.
Hope this article was successful in familiarizing you with the Cost of Living in Finland. Want to pursue your education at a top university in the country? Reach out to our experts at Alpha Edu who can help you in choosing the perfect course and university as per your requirements and interests!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of rent for students in Finland?
The cost of rent for students in Finland varies depending on the city and type of accommodation. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in a student housing complex can cost between €400 and €1200 per month (35K-1Lakh).
How much should I budget for groceries in Finland?
The cost of groceries in Finland can vary depending on where you shop and what you buy. On average, a monthly grocery budget for a student can range from €150 to €250 (13K-22K).
Are there any student discounts available in Finland?
Yes, there are many student discounts available in Finland. These include discounts on public transportation, entertainment, and cultural events.
What is the best way to save money on housing in Finland?
Sharing an apartment with other students or choosing a smaller studio apartment can be a good way to save money on housing in Finland. It is also important to research different housing options and compare prices before making a decision.
Can I work part-time as a student in Finland?
Yes, as a student in Finland, you can work part-time for up to 25 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the summer months. It is important to check your visa requirements and eligibility before starting work.
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