Your Guide to Copenhagen (2025)
Moving to Copenhagen? Here’s your comprehensive guide for 2025: living costs, jobs, neighborhoods, healthcare, transport, social life, and insider tips. Whether you’re an expat, student, or a new arrival, everything you need is here.
Overview: Life in Copenhagen
Copenhagen offers high living standards, a strong sense of community, and an unbeatable work-life balance. But city life comes with costs and choices—use this guide to navigate the practical, financial, and personal aspects of your move.
- Population: 1.4 million (Greater Copenhagen, 2025)
- Official Language: Danish (almost everyone speaks English)
- Reputation: One of the safest, happiest, and greenest cities in the world
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Insider Tip: Visit our Copenhagen neighborhoods guide to find the right district for your lifestyle—city center, family-friendly, hipster, or beachside!
Financial Aspects
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Cost of Living
Expect high living costs compared to most EU cities. Typical rent for a 1-bedroom is 7,500–13,000 DKK/month. Utilities add 600–900 DKK, and groceries are 2,300–2,800 DKK/month for one person.
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Taxes
Denmark has a progressive tax system (up to 42% income tax). This funds public healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Read more about taxes.
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Employment Opportunities
The job market is strong for IT, engineering, biotech, and green industries. Average gross monthly salary: 38,000 DKK. Jobs in Copenhagen.
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Bank Accounts & Payments
Opening a Danish bank account is essential for salary and rent. How to open a bank account.
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Transportation Costs
A monthly public transport pass costs ~430 DKK. Biking is free after buying a bike. Learn about Copenhagen public transport.
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Buying Property
Foreigners face restrictions on buying unless resident for several years. Prices are high; see housing in Copenhagen.
Lifestyle & Environment
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Safety & Neighborhoods
Copenhagen ranks among Europe’s safest capitals. Explore neighborhoods and see our FAQ on safety.
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Access to Essentials
Grocery stores, pharmacies, and hospitals are close by in every district. Essential services.
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Recreation & Green Spaces
Parks, playgrounds, and waterfronts abound: King’s Garden, Frederiksberg Have, Amager Beach. See top green spaces.
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Culture & Entertainment
World-class museums, live music, food halls, and festivals. See Copenhagen’s culture guide.
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Air Quality & Environment
Air is generally clean, but pollen allergies peak in spring. Read our living in Denmark guide.
Social Life & Personal Connections
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Events & Meetups
From street food fests to concerts, there’s something every week. See Copenhagen events.
Logistics & Practicalities
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Moving Costs
Budget for moving: deposit (3 months’ rent), prepaid rent, moving services. See moving to Denmark guide.
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Transportation & Commute
Public transport is reliable and fast; most commutes are under 30 minutes. Public transport in Copenhagen.
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Healthcare Access
Denmark offers universal public healthcare. Register for a CPR number and health card (yellow card) after arrival. Healthcare in Denmark.
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Schools & Education
Excellent public and international schools. See schools and childcare in Copenhagen.
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Paperwork & Bureaucracy
Register address, get your CPR number, set up a NemID/MitID, and open a bank account. See newcomer’s checklist.
Useful Links
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Copenhagen expensive to live in?
Yes—especially rent and eating out. Careful budgeting and student discounts can help. See Copenhagen cost of living.
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How hard is it to find an apartment?
The housing market is competitive—start searching early and beware of scams. Housing in Copenhagen.
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Do I need to speak Danish?
No—most people speak English, but Danish helps with integration. Language resources.
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How do I access healthcare?
Register for a CPR number to get your health card. Healthcare in Denmark.
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How do I get from the airport?
Take the Metro (M2) from Copenhagen Airport to the city in 15 minutes. Airport transport info.