Thinking about moving to Tartu? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Tartu.
Known as the intellectual hub of Estonia, Tartu is a city that is rich in history and culture. It is the second largest city in the country and is home to the oldest and most renowned university in Estonia, the University of Tartu. The city is a blend of old and new, with medieval architecture coexisting with modern infrastructure. But like any other city, living in Tartu has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the specifics.
Pros of Living in Tartu
One of the biggest advantages of living in Tartu is the high quality of education. The University of Tartu is ranked among the top 2% of the best universities in the world. It offers a wide range of programs in both English and Estonian, attracting students from all over the globe. This creates a diverse and vibrant student community, making Tartu a youthful and energetic city.
Another pro of living in Tartu is its rich cultural scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Tartu Love Film Festival and the Tartu Student Days, which are filled with concerts, theatre performances, and sports events. The city is also home to many museums, including the Estonian National Museum and the Tartu Art Museum, which offer a deep dive into the country’s history and culture.
Tartu is also known for its beautiful and clean environment. The city is surrounded by forests and has many parks and green spaces, such as the Toome Hill Park and the Tartu Botanical Garden. These places offer residents a chance to relax and enjoy nature within the city limits. The Emajõgi River that flows through the city adds to its charm and provides opportunities for boating and other water activities.
Despite being a city, Tartu has a small-town feel. It is compact and easy to navigate, with most places accessible by foot or bike. The city also has an efficient public transportation system, with buses and trams that run regularly. This makes commuting within the city hassle-free.
Volunteering is another aspect that makes living in Tartu rewarding. There are numerous organizations where residents can volunteer and contribute to the community. For instance, the Tartu Student Volunteer Network offers various volunteering opportunities for students, while the Tartu Environmental Education Centre promotes environmental awareness and sustainable living.
Cons of Living in Tartu, Estonia
While Tartu has many advantages, it also has its share of drawbacks. One of the main cons of living in Tartu is the weather. Estonia has a northern European climate, which means long, cold winters. The temperatures can drop below freezing, and the city can be covered in snow for several months. This can make daily life challenging, especially for those not used to such harsh conditions.
Another downside of living in Tartu is the language barrier. Although English is widely spoken in the university and among the younger population, it is not commonly used by the older generation. This can make communication difficult for those who do not speak Estonian or Russian, the two main languages spoken in the city.
The job market in Tartu can also be challenging, especially for expats. While there are job opportunities in sectors like IT, academia, and tourism, they are relatively limited compared to larger cities. Moreover, the salaries in Tartu are generally lower than in the capital, Tallinn.
While Tartu is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, it may not offer the same level of entertainment and nightlife as larger cities. The options for shopping, dining, and nightlife are relatively limited, and some may find the city’s pace of life slow.
Lastly, while Tartu is generally safe, it is not immune to crime. Like any other city, it has its share of petty crime, such as theft and vandalism. However, it’s worth noting that the crime rate in Tartu is relatively low compared to other cities of similar size.
In conclusion, Tartu is a city that offers a high quality of life with its excellent education, rich culture, and beautiful environment. However, the harsh weather, language barrier, and limited job opportunities can pose challenges. Ultimately, whether Tartu is the right place for you depends on your personal preferences and circumstances.
