Tallinn, Estonia
Retire in Tallinn, Estonia
Last updated on Feb 03, 2023
Summary: Tallinn, Estonia is an attractive destination for retirees due to its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. The city is also known for its mild climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the winter and the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit in the summer. There are several retirement communities in Tallinn, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Tallinn is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $300,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Tallinn?
"Tallinn is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. The city is full of cultural attractions, such as the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Kadriorg Palace, which is a beautiful baroque palace. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and sailing. There is also an active expat community in Tallinn, with many clubs and organizations that cater to retirees. Additionally, there is plenty of nightlife to enjoy, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. All in all, Tallinn is a great place for retirees to enjoy their retirement," said a retiree who moved to Tallinn, Estonia.
"Retiring in Tallinn can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Located in northern Europe, the city has a rich history and beautiful modern infrastructure. Tallinn boasts a comfortable climate with mild summers and cold winters. With plenty of outdoor activities and attractions, seniors can enjoy the city's parks, beaches, gardens, and cobblestone streets. For more active retirees, the city offers many outdoor sports including skiing and kayaking. With a low cost of living, retirees can make the most of their retirement savings and also benefit from low income and pension taxes. The city offers a wide range of healthcare services, recreational opportunities, and cultural outlets including theatres, galleries, and museums. There is also an active social scene accord with restaurants, clubs, bars, and cafes located around the city. Overall, Tallinn is a great place to retire and enjoy an active and comfortable lifestyle," said one retiree in Tallinn.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retiring abroad can be a great way to enjoy a new culture and experience a different lifestyle. Retirees in Tallinn recommend researching the local culture and laws to ensure that you are familiar with the area before making the move. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area and the availability of healthcare and other services. Finally, it is important to make sure that you have a strong support network in place, as this can make the transition to a new country much easier," explained one retiree living in Tallinn.
"Consider your finances and make sure you have enough money to cover your living costs. Additionally, research the area you are looking to retire in to make sure it meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. It's also important to find out about the healthcare system in the country you are considering, and make sure you understand any visa or residency requirements. Make sure you get to visit the area to get an idea of the culture, available activities and if the area is safe. Talk to other retirees who have already made the move to get their advice and to ensure the country is well suited to your needs. Finally, consider the longevity of your stay – if you plan to move back to your home country at some point, look at the consequences and implications of doing so," said one retiree in living in Tallinn, Estonia.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Tallinn?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Tallinn is the language barrier. Although English is widely spoken, the official language of Estonia is Estonian, which can be difficult to learn for those who are not native speakers. Additionally, the cost of living in Tallinn is relatively high compared to other cities in the region, making it difficult for retirees to stretch their savings. Furthermore, the climate in Tallinn can be quite cold and snowy in the winter months, which may be difficult for those who are not used to such weather. Finally, the healthcare system in Estonia is not as developed as in other countries, making it difficult for retirees to access the medical care they need," remarked one retiree in Tallinn.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Tallinn?
"Retiring in Tallinn offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its vibrant culture, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. The city is also home to a number of world-class museums, galleries, and theatres, providing plenty of opportunities to learn and be entertained. The city is also known for its stunning architecture, with a mix of old and new buildings that create a unique atmosphere. Additionally, Tallinn is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. Finally, the city is known for its excellent healthcare system, providing retirees with access to quality medical care," commented one retiree living in Tallinn, Estonia.
What are healthcare services like in Tallinn?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Tallinn. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Tallinn are of a high standard. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide a range of medical services, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. The public healthcare system is well-funded and provides free or low-cost services to citizens and residents. Private healthcare is also available, with a range of clinics and hospitals offering more specialized services. Tallinn also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," remarked one retiree in Tallinn.
How do I meet people in Tallinn?
When we asked people living in Tallinn about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Tallinn can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," remarked one retiree in Tallinn.
What is life like in Tallinn?
When we asked people living in Tallinn what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Tallinn is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, low cost of living, and excellent infrastructure. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning natural scenery, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many museums and galleries to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. The city also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it easy to find a place to socialize and meet new people. Additionally, Tallinn is a great place to work remotely, with a reliable internet connection and plenty of coworking spaces. All in all, Tallinn is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and affordable place to live and work," remarked one retiree in Tallinn.
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What do I need to know before retiring in Tallinn?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Tallinn, they said:
"Before retiring in Tallinn, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Estonian, as it is the official language of the country. Expats should also research the cost of living in Tallinn, as it is generally higher than other parts of the country. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Estonia, as it is different from other countries. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for living in Estonia, as they may need to apply for a residence permit," remarked one retiree in Tallinn.
What type of recreational activities are there in Tallinn?
"Tallinn offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to a number of parks, including the popular Kadriorg Park, which features a large lake, a rose garden, and a variety of sculptures. The park is also home to the Kadriorg Palace, a baroque-style palace built for Catherine I of Russia. Other parks in the city include the Song Festival Grounds, which hosts a variety of concerts and festivals, and the Toompea Hill, which offers stunning views of the city. For those looking for a more active experience, Tallinn also offers a number of sports facilities, including the A. Le Coq Arena, which is home to the Estonian national football team, and the Saku Suurhall, which hosts a variety of concerts and sporting events. The city also has a number of beaches, including the popular Pirita Beach, which offers a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball," explained one retiree living in Tallinn.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Tallinn?
"Tallinn is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. There are several large supermarkets, such as Rimi, Maxima, and Selver, which offer a wide variety of products. For more specialized items, there are also smaller specialty stores, such as the organic food store Ekolo, the health food store Tervise Paradiis, and the ethnic food store Etno Kaubamaja. For those looking for a more unique shopping experience, the Balti Jaam Market is a great place to find local produce, handmade crafts, and other items. Additionally, there are several shopping malls, such as Rocca al Mare, Kristiine, and Ülemiste, which offer a variety of stores and services," explained one member in Tallinn.
About the Author
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.
