What It’s Like to Live Denmark, as Told by a Dane
Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world, with high living standards, free healthcare, and a work culture that prioritizes work-life balance. But what’s it like to live in Denmark? Living here has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and I’m here to provide you with a realistic perspective.
Getting Started with Life in Denmark
Moving to Denmark, especially if you’re coming from a country outside the EU, means getting some paperwork done early. The most important thing you’ll need is a CPR number (our version of a personal ID number), which allows you access to services such as medical treatment and public benefits. Once you’ve sorted that, it’ll be much easier to settle in and feel like a part of Danish society.
You’ll quickly notice that life in Denmark revolves around a sense of equality and trust. Whether you live in Copenhagen and Aarhus or a smaller town like Horsens or Odense, there’s a strong sense of community, and Danes also place a high value on personal space and respect. It might take some time to make new friends, but once you do, you’ll find them to be warm, loyal, and dependable.
Cost of Living in Denmark: Is It Worth It?
Let’s address the most pressing issue: the cost of living in Denmark. It’s true—Denmark is quite expensive. Supermarkets, rent, and dining out can significantly deplete your budget. To give you an idea, a liter of milk costs around 12 DKK, while a liter of petrol is upwards of 16-18 DKK. You can expect to pay even more in central Copenhagen, particularly in trendy areas like Amager.
However, salaries are correspondingly high. In 2024, the average salary in Denmark is roughly 45,000 DKK per month before tax, though this varies depending on your job and location. Certain industries, particularly those offering leadership roles, might offer some of the highest average wages. Denmark’s strong labor market ensures most jobs come with benefits like parental leave, generous holidays, and pension contributions.
But be warned: living in Denmark is high in more ways than one. From transportation costs to rent, you’ll need to budget carefully, especially when you’re just starting out. Expats often find Denmark quite expensive to live in compared to other European countries.
Work and Work-life Balance
One of the perks of living in Denmark is the emphasis on work-life balance. Here, long working hours are frowned upon. Danes work efficiently and tend to leave the office by 4 or 5 PM to spend time with family or enjoy their hobbies. This focus on life outside of work contributes to overall well-being and high job satisfaction.
The Danish healthcare system is another major benefit. Medical treatment is free of charge, and you’ll also have access to free education and healthcare. Whether you’re working for a company or self-employed, Denmark’s social support system offers plenty of safety nets to help you thrive here.
Do I Need to Learn Danish?
You might be wondering if learning Danish is necessary. While Danish people are famously fluent in English, it’s still also worth learning the Danish language to integrate fully. Many official language matters—such as filling out forms from your municipality—are in Danish. However, even if you don’t speak Danish, you’ll find that most residents in Denmark (especially in major cities) can easily switch to English.
Still, pronunciation can be tricky for newcomers, and the grammar takes a bit of time to master. Some expats choose to take free language courses offered by their municipality to help ease the learning curve.
Transportation and Getting Around
Denmark has an excellent public transportation network. Trains, buses, and bikes are the main ways people get around. In cities like Copenhagen, you’ll see bikes everywhere, as Denmark is a cycling-friendly country with national routes crisscrossing the country. While transportation costs can be relatively expensive, using a bike can save you a lot in the long run. If you live near a station, it’s easy to commute using both public transit and cycle paths.
For a bit of cultural flair, I recommend attending the annual Light Festival in Copenhagen, which showcases dazzling installations across the city each February.
Pros and Cons of Living in Denmark
Like any place, Denmark has its ups and downs. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Pros
- High standard of living with access to free healthcare and services such as medical treatment.
- Compared to other countries, Denmark is safe.
- Strong work-life balance and generous social benefits.
- Excellent level of English proficiency among residents in Denmark.
Cons
- The high cost of living can be tough to adjust to.
- Bureaucracy can be confusing if you don’t speak Danish.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with long, dark winters.
Summarily, Denmark also offers great opportunities, particularly if you’re ready to embrace its culture and benefits. Whether you relocate to Odense, Aalborg, or the busy streets of Copenhagen, you’ll find a country that’s both challenging and rewarding.
Tips for Expats Moving to Denmark
- Plan your finances: The cost of living is high, so budgeting is essential.
- Secure accommodation early: Housing, especially in major cities, can be competitive.
- Get your CPR number: This is necessary for accessing public services and benefits.
- Use public transport: Invest in a monthly pass or a bike to reduce transportation costs.
- Open up your mind to the culture: Participate in local festivals and events to make new friends and feel more at home.
What’s It Like to Live in Denmark? Final Thoughts
Moving to Denmark can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make, provided you go in with realistic expectations. It’s not for everyone. Life is expensive in Denmark. But if you’re seeking high living standards and a better quality of life, you’ll find plenty to love in this Nordic country. Welcome, or as we say here, velkommen.
