Living Costs in Finland 2025: A Guide for Students and Professionals

Finland is renowned for its high standard of living, efficient public services, and quality education. However, understanding the cost of living is essential for students and professionals planning to settle there. Here's a breakdown of living expenses in Finland for 2025, covering both student and full-time worker scenarios.

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Living Costs for Students

Students in Finland typically experience moderate living costs, largely influenced by their city of residence and lifestyle choices. Here's a snapshot of common expenses:

• Accommodation:
  • Shared student housing: €250–€450/month
  • Private apartment: €600–€900/month (depending on the city)
• Food and Groceries: Around €200–€300/month
• Transportation: With a student discount, public transport costs €30–€60/month.
• Miscellaneous (utilities, internet, leisure): €150–€200/month

Total average monthly costs for a student range between €600–€1,200 depending on lifestyle and housing choices.

Earning While Studying:

Students are allowed to work up to 30 hours per week on a student visa, earning approximately €10–€15 per hour, depending on the job. A part-time job can cover a significant portion of monthly expenses.

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Living Costs for Professionals

Professionals working full-time in Finland enjoy a higher income, but their expenses also vary based on their lifestyle and the city they reside in.

• Accommodation:
  • One-bedroom apartment in the city center: €800–€1,200/month (Helsinki)
  • Smaller cities like Tampere or Oulu: €600–€800/month
• Food and Groceries: Around €300–€400/month
• Transportation: €60–€120/month depending on distance and city.
• Miscellaneous (utilities, healthcare, leisure): €200–€300/month

Total average monthly costs for a single professional range between €1,200–€2,000.

Earnings:

The average net salary for full-time professionals in Finland is around €2,500–€3,000/month, varying by industry and location​ Finland Expat  ,Future Finn, Hanken

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Comparison of Cities

• Helsinki: The most expensive city but offers high-paying jobs and excellent amenities.
• Tampere and Turku: Affordable housing with moderate living costs and vibrant cultural scenes.
• Oulu: Known for tech opportunities and lower living expenses compared to southern cities.

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Conclusion

Finland offers a balanced lifestyle with a high standard of living. While living costs can be high, especially in larger cities, students and professionals benefit from excellent support systems, reasonable salaries, and part-time work opportunities that help manage expenses effectively. Proper budgeting can make living in Finland a rewarding experience for both students and professionals.