Cost of Living in Denmark for Students: Copenhagen vs Aarhus + Monthly Budget
Denmark is an expensive country for students, with average living costs of DKK 8,000–10,000/month (€1,075–€1,345 or ₹95K–₹1.2L). Copenhagen is the most expensive city, while Aarhus is 10–15% cheaper. Accommodation is the biggest expense, and students can save money by sharing housing, cooking meals, and cycling. Overall, Denmark offers a high-quality lifestyle but requires careful financial planning.
Study Abroad23 Apr, 2026
Denmark is known for its exceptional quality of life, world-class education, and student-friendly environment—but it is also one of the most expensive countries in Europe.
For international students, understanding the real cost of living in Denmark is crucial for planning finances and avoiding budget stress.
This guide provides:
-
Monthly cost in Denmark (DKK, EUR & INR)
-
Cost of living in Copenhagen vs Aarhus
-
Budget breakdown (rent, food, transport)
-
Tips to save money
Cost of Living in Denmark Per Month (Full Breakdown)
| Expense | Monthly Cost (DKK) | EUR | INR |
| Accommodation | 2,500 – 6,000 | €335 – €805 | ₹30K – ₹75K |
| Food & Groceries | 1,500 – 2,500 | €200 – €335 | ₹18K – ₹30K |
| Transport | 300 – 600 | €40 – €80 | ₹3K – ₹6K |
| Utilities | 500 – 1,000 | €67 – €135 | ₹6K – ₹12K |
| Personal Expenses | 1,000 – 2,000 | €135 – €270 | ₹12K – ₹24K |
Average Total: DKK 8,000–10,000/month
Cost of Living in Copenhagen (MOST SEARCHED)
Direct Answer (Snippet Optimized):
The cost of living in Copenhagen for students ranges between DKK 9,000 to 12,000/month (€1,200–€1,600 / ₹1.1L–₹1.4L) depending on lifestyle.
Why Copenhagen is Expensive:
-
High rent demand
-
Limited student housing
-
Higher food & lifestyle costs
Aarhus vs Copenhagen Cost of Living
| Factor | Copenhagen | Aarhus |
| Rent | Very High | Moderate |
| Food | High | Slightly lower |
| Transport | Moderate | Similar |
| Overall Cost | Expensive | 10–15% cheaper |
Best choice: Aarhus for budget students, Copenhagen for opportunities.
Accommodation Cost in Denmark
Accommodation is the biggest expense.
| Type | Monthly Rent |
| Shared/Dorm | DKK 2,500 – 5,500 |
| Private Apartment | DKK 7,000 – 10,000+ |
Tips:
-
Apply early
-
Use university housing
-
Avoid scams (never pay upfront)
Food & Grocery Expenses
-
Monthly cost: DKK 1,500–2,500
-
Cheapest stores: Netto, Lidl, Rema 1000
-
Eating out: DKK 100–200 per meal
Best strategy: Cook at home + batch meals
Transportation Cost
-
Public transport: DKK 300–600/month
-
Bicycle: One-time DKK 500–1,500
Cycling is the cheapest + most popular option
Is Denmark Expensive for Students?
Yes, Denmark is expensive compared to most countries.
However:
-
High quality of life
-
Free healthcare (after CPR registration)
-
Strong student support
Value = High cost but high return
Budget Types (Decision Framework)
Low Budget (DKK 6,000–7,000)
-
Shared room
-
Cooking
-
Cycling
Budget (DKK 8,000–10,000)
-
Balanced lifestyle
High Budget (DKK 11,000+)
-
Private housing
-
Frequent dining out
Additional Costs to Consider
-
Deposit: DKK 6,000–18,000
-
Books: DKK 500–1,000/semester
-
Insurance: Mostly covered after CPR
How to Save Money in Denmark
-
Cook instead of eating out
-
Use student discounts
-
Buy second-hand items
-
Cycle instead of transport
-
Share accommodation