Living expenses

In Denmark salaries are high. So are the taxes and general living expenses. However, a number of services like schools and medical assistance are paid for through the tax system.

Convenience goods
The price level of convenience goods is relatively high. Ask your neighbours and colleagues about cheap shopping possibilities in your area.

According to Statistics Denmark, an average household (two adults and two children) spent approx. DKK 29,000 on food in 2008.

Examples of the price level

• One litre of milk costs approx. DKK 6
• A cucumber approx. DKK 10
• Two kilos of flour approx. DKK 15

Public transportation expenses (2009 prices)

• A ticket (for use on buses, trains, S-trains, and the metro) valid in two zones costs DKK 21
• A ticket for all zones in the capital area costs DKK 94.50
• You can save a lot of money by purchasing a punch card or a thirty-day unlimited travel card

Car expenses

• In 2009 petrol prices ranged between DKK 8 and 11 per litre
• It is important for you to determine whether it is most beneficial for you to bring your own car and buy a new one in Denmark
• Your car must be registered with SKAT (tax authorities) no later than two weeks after your arrival. You may obtain more information on car registration at www.skat.dk

Housing expenses

• Generally Danes use approx. 22 percent of their income on housing expenses,
• and an additional 7 percent on heating and electricity.

We recommend that before moving to Denmark you have set aside a fair sum for a deposit, furniture, etc.

Ask your local municipality about housing benifit.

Guidelines for the square meter price of rented housing in the capital area may be obtained here.

Child care

• a place in a private home day care or a day care centre costs approx. DKK 3,000
• a kindergarten place approx. DKK 1,900
• and a place in an after-school centre costs approx. DKK 1,300

The price of day care varies from municipality to municipality.

Ask your local municipality about receiving grants for child care.