The Best Way to Find Student Housing in Denmark

You’re pumped about moving to Denmark for school. You’ve got your acceptance letter, maybe even started packing, but there’s one thing hanging over your head—finding student housing in Denmark. You’ve probably looked online, seen some crazy expensive options, or found places that seem a little sketchy. It’s stressful, right?

Don’t worry, you’re not the only one feeling this way. Tons of international students freak out about student housing in Denmark when they move here. Between high rents in Copenhagen and worrying about getting scammed, it can all feel pretty overwhelming.

But here’s the deal—I’m from Denmark, and I understand your frustrations. I know exactly how the student housing system works here, and I’m going to help you figure it out. In this guide, I’ll show you the best ways to find affordable housing that’s legit, whether you’re heading to Copenhagen, Aarhus, or anywhere else. By the end, you’ll know where to look and how to score a place that won’t drain your budget.

And, if you are still looking into getting a student VISA for Denmark, we also got you covered in this article.

How Much Does Student Housing Cost in Denmark?

Student housing in Denmark depends on where you’re planning to live. Prices vary a lot between cities, especially in popular student hubs like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense.

If you’re thinking about student housing in Copenhagen, it’s important to budget for higher rent. Copenhagen is the most expensive city in Denmark. A student apartment in Copenhagen can range from 4,000 to 8,000 DKK (USD $570 to $1,140 ) per month. If you manage to secure a spot in a university dorm, like the University of Copenhagen dorms, prices are lower, typically around 3,500 to 5,500 DKK (USD $500 to $800). However, these spots are limited and highly competitive.

In Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, rent is a bit more affordable. For student housing in Aarhus, expect to pay between 3,000 to 5,500 DKK ($430 to $790 USD) per month. The demand for student housing is still high, but options like shared apartments and university dorms make it easier to find something within this range.

If you’re heading to Odense, home of the University of Southern Denmark, you’ll find much lower rental costs compared to Copenhagen and Aarhus. Here, you might pay around 2,500 to 4,500 DKK (USD $360 to $650) per month for student accommodation. This city is a good option for students on a tighter budget, while still offering all the essentials for student life.

Student housing in Denmark tends to be more expensive in bigger cities like Copenhagen, but smaller towns and cities offer more affordable options. Remember, housing in Denmark is in high demand, so it’s a good idea to start your search as early as possible—especially if you’re eyeing popular places like Basecamp Copenhagen or student apartments in Copenhagen.

If you are reading this article and haven’t yet found your study program and university, go and read this article first about the best Danish universities. Then you can look into the accommodation later.

Where Do Students Live in Denmark?

When it comes to student housing in Denmark, there are a few popular cities where students typically live: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg, and Esbjerg. Each city has its own unique student vibe and options for housing, so let’s break it down.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a favorite for international students, with lots of universities, including the University of Copenhagen and Copenhagen Business School (CBS). Popular student areas in the city include Nørrebro, Østerbro, and Amager. These neighborhoods are close to the city center, with easy access to universities and public transport. However, be prepared—student housing in Copenhagen can be pricey.

In terms of options, you’ll find student halls (known as kollegiums) like Basecamp Copenhagen, which are dedicated dorms for students. Rent here ranges from 3,500 to 5,500 DKK (USD $500 to $800) per month. If you don’t get a spot in the dorms, shared apartments (where you rent a room) and private rentals are also available but more expensive, typically 4,500 to 8,000 DKK (USD $650 to $1,150) per month (for a room).

It’s quite common for students to team up and rent private rentals, since many apartments in Copenhagen is designed for these purposes (you will find many 3 bedroom apartments, which can give 2 tenants their own room, and a shared living room).

Aarhus

Aarhus is Denmark’s second-largest city and home to Aarhus University. Popular student areas include Trøjborg, Frederiksbjerg, and Aarhus C. These areas are lively, close to campus, and have plenty of cafes, bars, and student-friendly hangouts.

Housing options here include student apartments and shared flats. University dorms are also an option, with rents in the range of 4,000 to 6,500 DKK (USD $580 to $950). Shared apartments in Aarhus are also common, where students split the rent for larger flats. Expect to pay from 3,500 (USD $500) and upwards for a room.

Odense

Odense, located on the island of Funen (Fyn), is home to the University of Southern Denmark. It’s much more affordable than Copenhagen and Aarhus. Popular student areas include Odense M, Odense C, and Skibhuskvarteret. The city has a quieter vibe but still offers everything students need.

For student housing in Odense, options include university dorms, shared apartments, and private rentals. Rent in university dorms typically ranges from 2,500 to 4,500 DKK (USD $360 to $650) per month, while private rentals are slightly higher but still significantly cheaper than the bigger cities.

Aalborg

Aalborg, located in northern Denmark, is another popular student city, especially for those attending Aalborg University. Popular areas for students include Aalborg Vestby and Aalborg C. Aalborg offers a mix of vibrant student life and affordable housing.

In terms of housing, there are student halls, shared apartments, and private rentals. Rent for a dorm room is usually between 2,500 and 4,500 DKK (USD $360 to $650). Private rentals tend to be higher, around 3,500 to 5,500 DKK (USD $500 to $800) per month, making it a bit more affordable than Copenhagen and Aarhus.

Esbjerg

Esbjerg may not be as well-known as the other cities, but it’s home to a growing student population, especially with Aalborg University Esbjerg. Popular areas include Gjesing and Sædding, which are close to campus.

For students in Esbjerg, housing is very affordable compared to other cities. Student dorms or shared apartments typically cost between 2,500 and 4,000 DKK (USD $360 to $570) per month. Private rentals are available, but most students opt for shared accommodations to keep costs down.

Esbjerg is the smallest of the other university cities, and you won’t find as many universities as in the other cities – however – it’s important to stress Esbjerg’s position as an absolute powerhouse when it comes to industrial production, engineering and sustainability, where Esbjerg essentially functions as a major hub for industry titans such as Maersk, as well as countless companies operating in offshore, oil and gas, as well as wind power.

Types of Student Housing in Denmark

There are three main types of student housing in Denmark:

1. Student Halls (Kollegiums): These are dorm-style accommodations specifically for students. University dorms are the cheapest option and usually come furnished. They’re ideal if you want to live close to campus with other students. However, spots are limited, so applying early is crucial.
2. Shared Apartments: A popular option where students rent rooms in larger apartments. You’ll split rent and utilities with roommates, which can be a great way to cut costs. This option is common in all major cities, especially in places like Copenhagen and Aarhus.
3. Private Rentals: If you prefer more privacy or can’t find a spot in a dorm, private rentals are an option. However, they tend to be more expensive, especially in cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, where the demand is high.

Wherever you choose to live, starting your housing search early is key. Student housing in Denmark, especially in cities like Copenhagen, fills up fast, so don’t wait until the last minute!

Is Denmark Affordable for Students?

Denmark is known for its high quality of life, but if you’re a student, you’re probably wondering whether its affordable for students. The answer depends on your lifestyle, city, and whether you can qualify for financial support. Let’s break down the typical cost of living and explore how you can make student life more affordable.

Cost of Living for Students in Denmark

Living costs in Denmark are generally higher than in many other European countries, but how much you spend will vary depending on where you live and your personal budget. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend monthly:

1. Housing: Housing is likely your biggest expense, especially in cities like Copenhagen or Aarhus. As mentioned earlier, rent for student housing in Denmark ranges from:
   • Copenhagen: 4,000 to 8,000 DKK (USD $570 to $1,140)
   • Aarhus: 3,000 to 5,500 DKK (USD $430 to $790)
   • Odense: 2,500 to 4,500 DKK (USD $360 to $650)
2. Food: On average, you’ll spend about 2,000 to 3,000 DKK (USD $285 to $430) per month on groceries if you cook at home. If you eat out often, that number will go up. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 120 DKK (USD $17), while fast food is a bit cheaper at 80 DKK (USD $11) per meal.
3. Transportation: Denmark’s public transportation is reliable, but it’s not the cheapest. In Copenhagen, a monthly pass for public transport costs around 400 to 600 DKK (USD $57 to $85). Students living in cities like Aarhus or Odense will pay a little less, around 300 to 450 DKK (USD $43 to $65) per month. However, many students opt for cycling, which is very popular and affordable once you invest in a bike. There are also bike lanes pretty much everywhere, making this a very practical solution.
4. Leisure and Miscellaneous: Entertainment and leisure activities are another expense to keep in mind. A movie ticket costs around 150 DKK (USD $21), where popcorn and a coke will often cost the same, while a gym membership can be around 200 to 500 DKK (USD $29 to $58) per month. If you enjoy going out for drinks, a pint of beer costs about 50 to 60 DKK (USD $7 to $8.50).
5. Utilities and Internet: If you’re renting privately, you’ll need to budget for utilities (electricity, heating, water), which can range from 800 to 1,500 DKK (USD $115 to $215) per month, depending on the season. Internet costs around 200 to 300 DKK (USD $29 to $43) monthly.

In total, you’ll likely spend between 6,000 and 10,000 DKK (USD $860 to $1,430) per month, including rent, food, and other living expenses. The cost of student housing in Denmark will be your biggest factor, but careful budgeting can help you keep costs manageable.

Financial Support for Students in Denmark

Denmark offers several financial support options for students, including scholarships and the SU (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte) grant. However, international students need to meet specific criteria to qualify for these benefits.

1. Scholarships: Many Danish universities offer scholarships to talented international students, especially at the master’s and PhD levels. These are often merit-based or specific to certain programs. Keep in mind, competition is high, so it’s important to apply early and highlight your academic achievements. For example, the University of Copenhagen and Aalborg University offer scholarships that can cover part of your tuition fees or living costs. Make sure to check with your university’s admissions office or their website for available opportunities.
2. SU (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte): The SU grant is a Danish student support system that provides monthly financial aid to eligible students. As a Danish national, I can tell you this benefit is a game-changer for students here. For international students, however, there are specific rules. To qualify for SU as an international student, you need to meet one of these criteria:
   • Be a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, and you must be working in Denmark at least 10-12 hours per week (this qualifies you as a “worker”).Have a Danish residence permit based on family reunification or another special status.If you’re a non-EU/EEA student, you typically won’t be eligible unless you’ve been in Denmark for several years and have a strong connection to the country.
   If you do qualify for SU, you’ll receive around 6,321 DKK (USD $910) per month to help with your living expenses. This can make a huge difference, especially in cities like Copenhagen, where costs are higher. Additionally, students eligible for SU can apply for a student loan with favorable terms, allowing for up to 3,260 DKK (USD $470) in extra support each month.
3. Part-Time Jobs: Many international students take up part-time jobs to help with their living expenses. The good news is that Denmark has a fairly high minimum wage—most student jobs pay around 100 to 130 DKK (USD $14 to $19) per hour. If you work 10-12 hours a week, you can expect to earn 4,000 to 6,000 DKK (USD $570 to $860) per month, which can significantly help with your living costs. Keep in mind that Denmark’s tax brackets is pretty high, usually around 40-50% depending on your income (and yes – SU is also taxed)

Is Denmark Affordable for You?

Denmark is not the cheapest place to study, but with proper planning, it can be affordable. Between scholarships, part-time work, and financial aid like SU, many students manage to cover their costs. It’s all about balancing your budget, finding affordable student housing in Denmark, and taking advantage of the support that’s available.

If you’re eligible for SU or can find part-time work, living in Denmark becomes much more feasible. Start planning early and explore all your options—you’ll find that Denmark offers a great student life, even on a budget.

How to Find Student Housing in Denmark: Key Resources

Looking for student housing in Denmark can feel like a hard task, especially with so many options out there. But don’t worry—there are plenty of resources to help you find a place that’s safe, affordable, and legit. Here’s a list of the best websites, housing portals, and student housing organizations to get you started.

Best Websites and Housing Portals

Here are some of the most trusted websites and platforms to help you secure a place:

BoligPortal

BoligPortal is one of the largest housing platforms in Denmark, offering listings for everything from student apartments in Copenhagen to shared flats in Aarhus or Odense. It’s user-friendly, with filters to help you search by location, price, and housing type. They also verify most of the listings, reducing your chances of running into scams when searching for your student housing denmark.

Student Housing Aarhus

If you’re studying in Aarhus, this site is a must-visit. It’s dedicated to student housing in Aarhus, with listings for student dorms and shared apartments across the city. You can also register to be notified when a room becomes available, making it easier to snag a place.

Studiebolig Odense

For those heading to Odense, Studiebolig Odense connects students with available dorm rooms and private rentals. It’s one of the main resources for finding affordable accommodation close to the University of Southern Denmark.

FindBolig

This is a nationwide platform where you can search for student housing in Denmark across different cities, including Copenhagen and Aalborg. They have listings for both student halls and private rentals, and you can create a profile to receive housing offers.

HousingAnywhere

HousingAnywhere is great for international students looking for housing in major Danish cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. It offers verified listings for student apartments and rooms, with the option to book a place online before you even arrive in Denmark.

Basecamp Copenhagen

If you’re specifically looking for student housing in Copenhagen, Basecamp Copenhagen is a well-known student dorm provider. It offers fully furnished rooms with a vibrant student community, but the rent can be on the higher side.

University Housing Portals

Many universities in Denmark also have their own housing portals or partnerships with local dormitories. Here are some key university portals:

1. University of Copenhagen Housing Foundation is specifically for students attending the University of Copenhagen. It helps international students find dorms, shared apartments, or studios. The rooms are usually within walking or biking distance of campus, which is super convenient.
2. Aarhus University Housing is available both Danish and international students. You can apply for a spot in one of the student dorms or shared apartments through their housing office, and they also have a first-come, first-served policy for some rooms.
3. University of Southern Denmark (SDU) Housing offers rooms in student dorms, shared flats, or private rentals close to campus.

Tips to Avoid Scams and Secure Legit Housing

When searching for student housing in Denmark, especially in high-demand cities like Copenhagen or Aarhus, it’s essential to stay cautious and avoid falling for scams. Here are some tips to help you find safe and legitimate housing:

1. Always Use Trusted Websites: Stick to well-known housing platforms like BoligPortal, Findbolig.nu, or your university’s housing portal. These websites verify listings, which reduces the risk of scams.
2. Be Wary of Offers That Sound Too Good to Be True: If you see a listing for a large apartment in Copenhagen at an unusually low price, be skeptical. Scammers often post fake listings with low rents to lure students in. Remember, rent in Copenhagen typically ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 DKK ($570 to $1,140 USD) for student apartments.
3. Never Pay in Cash or Outside the Platform: Avoid transferring money through services like Western Union or any platform that doesn’t provide buyer protection. Always pay rent through secure, traceable methods like bank transfers, and use the payment systems on legitimate housing websites.
4. Visit the Place Before Signing a Lease: If possible, visit the apartment or room in person before committing to anything. If you’re looking for student apartments in Copenhagen but can’t be there in person, try to arrange a virtual tour. Avoid landlords who refuse to show you the property or rush you into signing a lease.
5. Check for a Tenancy Agreement: A legitimate rental will always come with a tenancy agreement. Make sure the lease includes details like the rent amount, deposit, move-in date, and conditions for ending the lease. If the landlord refuses to provide a contract, walk away.
6. Get Help from University Housing Offices: Many universities in Denmark have dedicated housing offices that can assist you with your search. They often have pre-approved housing options and can help you navigate the local market. If you’re studying at DIS Copenhagen, for example, their housing office will be your best resource for finding safe student housing.

Final Tips for Securing Housing as an International Student

Finding student housing in Denmark can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re abroad. But don’t stress! With the right approach, you can land a great place. Here are some practical tips to help you secure housing and what you need to know about Danish landlords.

1. Start Early and Stay Active

Finding student housing in Denmark, especially in cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, can be competitive. The earlier you start, the better. Begin your search 3 to 6 months before you move. Many places, especially student apartments in Copenhagen, get snapped up fast. Keep checking websites like BoligPortal, HousingAnywhere, and university portals like University of Copenhagen dorms. Sign up for email alerts so you don’t miss new listings.

2. Go for Temporary Housing First

If you can’t find long-term housing right away, don’t worry. A lot of students start with temporary housing like hostels or short-term rentals. Short-term rentals for 12-24 months are quite common in Denmark, due to regulations, making this a preferred option for many private landlords. It is by no means something that should alarm you, since these are often voluntarily extended by both the tenant and landlord (but make sure to get it in writing). This buys you time to look for something more permanent once you’re in Denmark. You’ll also be able to visit places in person, which is always a plus.

In Copenhagen, look at options like Basecamp or Generator Copenhagen for short-term stays. You can also check out Airbnb for temporary setups while you search.

3. Communicate Clearly and Politely with Landlords

When reaching out to Danish landlords, keep your emails or messages simple and respectful. Danish culture values clear and direct communication. Introduce yourself, mention why you’re moving to Denmark, and ask basic questions (like rent, deposit, and availability).

Always be polite, and remember, patience is key. Sometimes landlords take a few days to reply.

4. Understand Danish Rental Contracts

Once you find a place, you’ll sign a rental contract. Make sure you read it carefully! The contract will cover important details like:

• Rent and deposit amounts.
• Move-in and move-out dates.
• Rules for ending the lease (usually 3 months’ notice in Denmark).

If something seems unclear, ask your landlord. And never sign a contract without understanding everything first.

5. Respect Danish Cultural Norms

In Denmark, trust is huge. Landlords expect you to treat the property well, pay rent on time, and be respectful of neighbors. Danish people don’t usually haggle over rent. So if you see an apartment for 5,000 DKK ($715 USD), that’s probably the final price.

Also, keep in mind that Danish landlords appreciate honesty and direct communication. If something goes wrong in the apartment, let them know right away.

6. Know Your Rights as a Tenant

Denmark has strong tenant protection laws. As a tenant, you have the right to a written contract, and landlords can’t increase rent randomly. If you feel something’s off, reach out to tenant unions like Lejernes LO or your university housing office. They can help you understand your rights.

7. Be Careful with Scams

Unfortunately, scams are a risk when searching for housing from abroad. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Too good to be true?: If an apartment in Copenhagen is listed way below market price, be careful. It could be a scam.
• Don’t pay upfront: Never transfer money before you’ve seen the place or signed a proper contract.
• Always visit (or get a virtual tour): If possible, visit the apartment in person or ask for a video tour if you’re abroad. If the landlord refuses, walk away.

8. Respect the Rental Contract

Denmark can sometimes seem like a place, where people go with the flow and manage affairs through trust-based arrangement. While this is true to some extent, it’s also a rule-based society.

As a tenant, you have to respect your rental contract to the letter. Missing a payment by just one day gives your landlord the right to cancel the contract due to a breach on your part. And then you don’t have a place to stay.

While most landlords would be ok with you forgetting a payment, you should be careful and not count on goodwill.

Ready to Find Your New Home?

Finding student housing in Denmark doesn’t have to be a headache, but you’ve got to move fast. With places filling up quickly—especially in major cities—starting your search early is a must. Stick with trusted sites like BoligPortal, be smart about avoiding scams, and you’ll land a spot that works for you. Don’t forget, keeping things clear with landlords and knowing your tenant rights will make things a lot easier.

Lizzy Ogot

Expat in Denmark | SEO Content Writer

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