Moving to Copenhagen, Denmark

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Copenhagen, Denmark for its high quality of life, vibrant culture, and excellent job opportunities. The city is known for its strong economy, low unemployment rate, and high standard of living. Additionally, Copenhagen is a safe and welcoming city with a diverse population and a wide range of activities and attractions. With its beautiful architecture, stunning scenery, and rich history, Copenhagen is an ideal destination for expats looking to experience a unique and exciting lifestyle.

What do I need to know before moving to Copenhagen?

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

"Copenhagen is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a high quality of life. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Copenhagen is high, so it is important to budget accordingly. It is also important to note that the Danish language is widely spoken in Copenhagen, so it is beneficial to learn some basic phrases before moving. Additionally, Copenhagen is a very bike-friendly city, so it is recommended to bring a bike or purchase one upon arrival. Finally, expats should be aware that the weather in Copenhagen can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all seasons," explained one expat living in Copenhagen, Denmark.

"Plan first where you need to be -- work and schools -- and chose someplace that is very close to that area. Expect to live in an apartment and not a home unless you have a very large budget for housing expenses. CIS and Rygaards are the only international schools I would recommend in any way. When setting a budget, double or triple it. And, lastly, rent through a rent manager and NOT directly with a home owner. You will have major problems when moving out. I've heard many nightmare stories and ours was bad but not as bad as others," said one expat in Copenhagen.

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How do I find a place to live in Copenhagen?

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 Copenhagen is to use online resources such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and other rental websites. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on local classifieds websites such as DBA and BoligPortal.dk. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in the area. Additionally, you can look for postings on bulletin boards in local cafes, libraries, and other public places. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations," replied a member in Copenhagen.

"We needed to rent a furnished apartment or home. That narrowed down our search to only one decently sized townhouse (rakehaus). In hindsight I wished that we had just sucked it up and purchased Ikea furniture to open up our choices. The townhouse was ok but I kicked myself for not listening to my gut instinct that one main bathroom for a family of four just wouldn't work for us. It didn't. And it was a supreme source of frustration because that one bathroom had a shower leak that the owner refused to fix until we moved out and charged us for the repair and cleaning of all the lime buildup. That's common in Denmark -- the owners of rentals will charge you for fixing things they should have fixed while you lived there," commented one expat who made the move to Copenhagen.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Copenhagen are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many apartments have balconies or terraces, and some have access to a shared garden. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furniture and artwork, and the kitchens are well-equipped with modern appliances. Expats can also expect to find plenty of storage space, as well as access to high-speed internet and cable TV," replied a member in Copenhagen.

"We lived in a townhouse in the outskirts of Copenhagen in a small town -- Horsholm. We had to move to the suburbs to find a decent sized home for our family of four. It was small but ok. The car park was a long walk to our townhouse which was difficult when grocery shopping American style for a family of four. We had a much lower idea on our housing budget than what reality is there. In hindsight we should have rented closer into Copenhagen in an apartment. Most expats have a large rental cost covered by their employer that allows for more decent living style. We were on a contract and not as an employee so our budget came out of my husband's contract fee," commented one expat who made the move to Copenhagen.

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What is the average cost of housing in Copenhagen?

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

"Much higher. The low end of rented apartments is around 1000 USD per month and you do not get much for your money. Most rented apartments, if you can find them, go for between 1500-2000 USD per month," replied a member in Copenhagen.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Copenhagen?

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

"Buying a home in Copenhagen can be a great investment, as the city is known for its high quality of life and strong economy. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Copenhagen, which is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Renting a home in Copenhagen can be a more affordable option, and it can also give you the flexibility to move around if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Copenhagen should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one expat who made the move to Copenhagen.

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What should I pack when moving to Copenhagen?

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

"I wish I had brought 1. Over the counter medicines; 2. Purchased more all weather shoes and boots before moving; 3. Hair cutting supplies for humans and canines. I wish I had left home several electronic devices that I thought would work on plug converters but didn't (hand blender; hair dryer); 2. high heel shoes -- very hard to walk on cobbled streets in and got ruined in all the rain; 3. summer clothes -- only used for about 3 weeks tops and took up too much storage space," said one expat who made the move to Copenhagen.

"Nothing comes to mind ... don't both bringing electronics from NA due to different electrical system," explained one expat living in Copenhagen, Denmark.

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

We asked people in Copenhagen 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!:

"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Copenhagen. It is considered rude to be late for appointments, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the Danish concept of 'Jante Law', which is a set of social rules that emphasize humility and discourage boasting. Finally, it is important to be aware of the Danish concept of 'hygge', which is a feeling of coziness and contentment, and to be respectful of the Danish people's desire for privacy and personal space," remarked one expat who made the move to Copenhagen.

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Why do people move to Copenhagen?

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

"Copenhagen is an attractive destination for expats due to its high quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its green spaces, bike-friendly streets, and clean air, making it a great place to live. Additionally, Copenhagen is home to a diverse population, with a large international community, making it easy for expats to find a sense of belonging. The city also offers a wide range of job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to further their career. Finally, the cost of living in Copenhagen is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money," said one expat living in Copenhagen, Denmark.

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How are healthcare services Copenhagen?

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

"Healthcare services in Copenhagen, are characterized by a comprehensive and universal public healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care to all residents. The Danish healthcare system is primarily funded through taxes, ensuring that all citizens have equal access to healthcare services, regardless of their income or social status. In Copenhagen, healthcare services are provided through a combination of public hospitals, private clinics, and general practitioners. The city is home to several renowned hospitals, including Rigshospitalet, which is the largest hospital in Denmark and serves as a leading center for medical research and education. Primary healthcare services in Copenhagen are mainly provided by general practitioners, who serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care. These doctors are responsible for diagnosing and treating common illnesses, as well as referring patients to specialists when necessary. Specialist healthcare services in Copenhagen cover a wide range of medical fields, including cardiology, oncology, and psychiatry. Patients typically require a referral from their general practitioner to access these specialized services. In addition to public healthcare services, Copenhagen also has a thriving private healthcare sector, which offers a range of medical services, including dental care, physiotherapy, and cosmetic surgery. Private healthcare providers often have shorter waiting times and more personalized care, but these services come at a higher cost compared to public healthcare. Emergency medical services in Copenhagen are available 24/7 and can be accessed by calling the emergency number, 112. Ambulance services, as well as emergency departments in hospitals, are well-equipped to handle urgent medical situations. Overall, healthcare services in Copenhagen are known for their high quality, accessibility, and efficiency, ensuring that residents have access to the medical care they need," wrote one expat living in Copenhagen.

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What are medical services in Copenhagen like?

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

"Medical services in Copenhagen, are known for their high quality and accessibility. The Danish healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers, with the majority of services being publicly funded. Residents have access to a wide range of medical services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency care. The healthcare system in Copenhagen is based on the principle of equal access for all citizens, regardless of income or social status. This means that most medical services are free or heavily subsidized for residents. Patients are usually required to choose a general practitioner (GP) who acts as their primary care provider and refers them to specialists when necessary. In addition to GPs, there are numerous specialist clinics and hospitals in Copenhagen that cater to various medical needs. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. Emergency care is also readily available, with several hospitals in the city offering 24-hour emergency services. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Copenhagen, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications. Many pharmacists are also trained to offer advice on minor health issues and can recommend appropriate treatments. Overall, medical services in Copenhagen are of high quality, easily accessible, and affordable for residents. The city's healthcare system is well-regarded for its efficiency and effectiveness in providing care to its citizens," offered one expat living in Copenhagen.

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Moving to Copenhagen, Denmark

What do I need to know before moving to Copenhagen?

How do I find a place to live in Copenhagen?

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

What is the average cost of housing in Copenhagen?

Should I buy or rent a home in Copenhagen?

What should I pack when moving to Copenhagen?

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

Why do people move to Copenhagen?

How are healthcare services Copenhagen?

What are medical services in Copenhagen like?

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