Cost of living - Helsinki

Helsinki is a city that uniquely blends Nordic design, cutting-edge technology, and close proximity to nature. It is one of the most livable cities in the world, but that comes at a price. Finland is known for its high standard of living, which also means that some things are more expensive here compared to other European cities.

Housing – The Biggest Expense

As in many other capital cities, housing costs are one of the biggest expenses in Helsinki.

• A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs between €900–€1,400 per month.
• A two-bedroom apartment in central areas like Kallio or Punavuori can cost €1,500–€2,000.
• In the suburbs, such as Espoo or Vantaa, rent is lower, ranging from €700–€1,200 for a one-bedroom or a small two-bedroom apartment.

If you’re considering buying a home in Helsinki, the price per square meter in the city center is around €6,000–€8,000, while in the suburbs, it can be €3,000–€5,000.

Food and Groceries – Expensive but High Quality

Food prices in Finland are higher than in many other European countries, especially if you shop at regular supermarkets like K-Market or S-Market.

• A lunch at a regular restaurant usually costs between €12–€18.
• A dinner at a nicer restaurant can range from €30–€60 per person.
• A typical monthly grocery bill can be €300–€450 for one person.

Finns love their coffee, and a cup at a café costs around €3–€5. However, alcohol is expensive due to high taxes – a beer at a bar costs around €7–€9, and a bottle of wine at Alko starts at about €12.

Transport – Convenient and Affordable

Helsinki has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, a metro, and trains.

• A monthly public transport pass costs around €70 for adults.
• A single ticket costs €2.80–€4.10, depending on the zone.
• Cycling is a popular option in summer, and the Helsinki City Bikes system costs only €35 per year for unlimited short rides.

If you drive, expect high fuel prices (around €2 per litre) and expensive parking fees in the city center.

Other Expenses – What Else to Budget For?

In addition to housing, food, and transport, here are some other costs to consider:

• Gym & Fitness: A gym membership costs between €40–€70 per month.
• Internet & Mobile: High-speed fiber internet costs €30–€40 per month, and a mobile plan is around €20–€30.
• Leisure & Entertainment:
• A movie ticket costs around €15.
• Concert tickets range from €40–€100, depending on the artist.
• Sauna – a key part of Finnish culture – can be free if you have your own, otherwise, expect to pay €5–€20 per visit at a public sauna.

Conclusion – Helsinki: A City with High Quality of Life, but at a Cost

Living in Helsinki means enjoying an excellent quality of life, top-tier healthcare, a stable economy, and close contact with nature. But it does come at a price – especially when it comes to housing and food.

If you have a stable income and appreciate the Finnish way of life, Helsinki remains one of the most attractive cities in the Nordics to live in.