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Living in Denmark, Aarhus and Herning
Located in the southernmost part of Scandinavia, Denmark is the gateway between Scandinavia and the rest of Europe. Denmark is a coastal country with long white beaches. The landscape is mostly flat with rolling hills, green fields and woods. Because of the flat landscape, the bicycle is the preferred means of urban transport.
Denmark is a very safe and secure country with a low crime rate, a universal healthcare system and a high quality of life. The Danes are a peaceful people, and the tone between Danes is relaxed and informal, and often ironic. For Danes, ‘hygge’ – the concept of cosiness – is an essential part of life. Maybe that is why Danes have been named the happiest people in the world on numerous occasions.
Most Danes have a high command of English, so you will find it easy to communicate in Denmark even if you do not speak Danish.
The happy Danish people
In Denmark, you will meet some of the happiest people in the world. The secret may be found in the safe and secure society, universal health care system, tuition-free quality education and social equality, according to the World Happiness Report.
"Hygge" - a truly Danish concept
Coming to Denmark, you will come across "hygge". It roughly translates to coziness, and Danes love to "hygge". "Hygge" is a feeling of togetherness, getting cozy and spending time with loved ones. Hygge is cozying up on the couch, sharing good food and conversation with friends and spending time in front of a bonfire. Hygge is a feeling and a sensation. You will know "hygge" when you feel it.
Living costs
The standard of living in Denmark is high and the economy performs above the European average. Accommodation, food, transport and leisure costs are therefore relatively high in Denmark in comparison with many other countries. However, salaries are also correspondingly high, and many services such as medical treatment are paid for via taxes and the Danish welfare system – in other words, no user fees are charged.
Budget examples from students
Below, you will find estimated expenses for a number of items. You will see budget examples from current students, as we know prioritizations and costs differ from person to person. As you can see, it is possible to live fairly cheaply so that you can splash out once in a while.
Tiffany - MSc student in Commercial and Retail Management
"I'm from Mexico and study my Master's at Aarhus BSS. I live in a shared apartment with 3 other students. I don’t like to bike so I always go by bus or other public transportation. I’m bad at cooking and therefore don’t spend that much on groceries – but I love to go out and choose to spend a bit more on that."
My best budget tip: Download apps such as Minetilbud (which I use to check grocery store offers - milk, poultry and veggies) and Too Good to Go (which I use when I want to buy a cheaper meal). If you like a specific company/store check out if they have a member's app, to get good deals and discounts (I use Espresso House)
I spend more money on: Eating out (Earlybird is a good app to try new restaurants) or at the university's cantine. I also like the Royal Library's food menu (which you can check online for the whole week).
I splurge money on: Every now and then I walk down the shopping street (Strøget) and buy a new fashion item.
Total budget: 1071 Euro
Carolin - MSc student in Marketing
"I'm from Germany and I am 24 years old. I'm currently living in a privately rented apartment, shared with my partner.
I mostly cook at home and try to meal prep lunches for the week but will go out to a café or restaurant a couple of times a month. I usually bike everywhere but if the weather gets really bad I'll take the bus or car share. I would say I'm a really responsible spender as I'm saving most of my money for travelling but will also spend a little bit more on clothes or expensive food from time to time."
My best budget tip: Meal prep and Too Good To Go.
I spend more money on: Yoga membership and eating out at Aarhus' beautiful cafés.
I splurge money on: Traveling and concerts.