Aarhus, Denmark

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Sep 17, 2022

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Aarhus, Denmark: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.

Will I be able to find a job in Aarhus?

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When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Aarhus, they reponded:

"There are a lot of industries in Aarhus, but as it is Denmark's second biggest city, there is a lot of businesses based in or around the city. Danes tend to find new jobs through networking, so jobseekers need to make sure that they are on LinkedIn and/or attending career networking events, of which there are plenty, in the city," remarked another expat in Aarhus.

What do expats in Aarhus appreciate most about the local culture?

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"Now, after some time, I can appreciate the orderly aspect of Danish culture. However, my in-laws and husband's friends understand me better and I speak Danish pretty well which is a huge help," said another person in Aarhus.

What do expats find most challenging?

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"The language. The politeness of Danes which can sometimes be mistaken for them wanting to be friends with you. Don't assume that. A girl friend told me she had a lovely dinner with a group of people when she arrived, hit it off with one girl there and when the night ended, asked this Danish girl if she'd like to get together for coffee sometime. The Dane actually responded something to the effect of "you're being a bit needy and I have enough friends". It took everything for my girl friend not to burst into tears. Danish men are great. Danish women put up HUGE walls. Don't expect ANYONE to speak in English at a dinner party. They have never been taught that it is amazingly rude to speak in Danish and cut off a guest for hours and hours. I have spent many a night out in silence because unless you keep talking, they'll flip right back to Danish. I know many others who've experience this. I finally told my husband (who did try to get English going) that unless he did something, I wasn't going to these dinners (sometimes 8 hours at a table!) anymore," added another person living in Aarhus.