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Aerial View of Old Town Tallinn, Estonia

Moving to Estonia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 15, 2023

Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Estonia for its high quality of life, low cost of living, and excellent digital infrastructure. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Estonia are Tallinn, Tartu, and Pärnu. People looking for a place to live in Estonia can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or look for postings on social media. Additionally, many expats and digital nomads find accommodation through online networks and communities.

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What do I need to know before moving to Estonia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Estonia, they said:

"Estonia is a small country in Northern Europe with a population of 1.3 million people. It is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, and has a modern economy with a high standard of living. The official language is Estonian, but English is widely spoken. The currency is the Euro. Estonia has a temperate climate with cold winters and mild summers. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Estonia is relatively high compared to other countries in the region. Healthcare is of a high standard and is free for EU citizens. Expats should also be aware that the country has a high rate of internet penetration, making it one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world," explained one expat living in Estonia.

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How do I find a place to live in Estonia?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Estonia is to use online resources such as websites and real estate agents. Websites such as kv.ee and city24.ee are great for finding rental properties, while real estate agents can help you find a place to buy. Additionally, you can search for rental properties on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. It is also possible to find a place to live through word of mouth, so don't be afraid to ask around. Finally, you can also look for rental properties in newspapers and magazines," remarked one expat who made the move to Estonia.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Estonia?

"Expat homes and apartments in Estonia tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and open spaces. Many expats choose to live in the capital city of Tallinn, which offers a wide range of housing options, from traditional wooden houses to modern high-rise apartments. Expats can also find homes in the countryside, where they can enjoy the peace and quiet of rural life. Most expat homes and apartments come with all the necessary amenities, such as internet access, washing machines, and air conditioning," explained one expat living in Estonia.

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What is the average cost of housing in Estonia?

If you are thinking about moving to Estonia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Estonia is generally considered to be quite affordable compared to other European countries. The average cost of renting an apartment in Estonia is usually around €400-€600 per month, while the average cost of buying a home is around €1,000-€1,500 per square meter," replied a member in Estonia.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Estonia?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Estonia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Estonia can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a growing real estate market. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Renting a home in Estonia can be a more affordable option, as it does not require a large upfront investment. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility, as it allows you to move more easily if your circumstances change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Estonia should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," commented one expat who made the move to Estonia.

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What should I pack when moving to Estonia?

We asked people living in Estonia to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Estonia, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is cold and wet. It is also a good idea to bring a raincoat and waterproof shoes. Additionally, it is recommended to bring a few items of casual clothing, as well as some formal attire for special occasions. It is also important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other paperwork required for the move. Finally, it is a good idea to bring some basic toiletries and personal items to make the transition to a new home easier," said one expat who made the move to Estonia.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Estonia?

We asked people in Estonia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"I thought I knew someone well enough to ask how they were doing. I also used to smile a lot in public and at strangers. I have messed up when speaking the language and said something different from what I wanted to say and the situation was weird and uncomfortable. My first year here was an embarrassing cultural blunder," said one expat in Tartu.

"I went into Sauna with a towel. Everyone is supposed to go completely naked together. It's normal here. I was laughed at because I felt weird hanging out naked with a bunch of guys. Now it doesn't even phase me since it is part of the culture," remarked one expat who made the move to Tallinn.

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Why do people move to Estonia?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Estonia, they responded:

"Estonia is an attractive destination for expats due to its high quality of life, low cost of living, and excellent infrastructure. The country is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. Additionally, Estonia is a great place to start a business, as it has a business-friendly environment and a highly educated workforce. Furthermore, the country offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from outdoor activities to cultural events. Finally, Estonia is a safe and secure country with a low crime rate, making it an ideal place to live and work," said one expat living in Estonia.

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How are healthcare services Estonia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Estonia, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Estonia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Estonian citizens. It is also available to foreign residents, although they may have to pay for some services. The quality of public healthcare in Estonia is generally good, with a wide range of services available. Expats in Estonia can use the public healthcare system, although they may have to pay for some services. Expats can also use private healthcare services, which are often more expensive but may offer a higher quality of care," commented one expat living in Estonia.

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What are medical services in Estonia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Estonia, they replied:

"Estonia has a well-developed healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment. Estonia also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. In addition, Estonia has a number of private medical facilities that offer a variety of services, including cosmetic surgery and alternative medicine. The country also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," said one expat living in Estonia.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Aerial View of Old Town Tallinn, Estonia

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