Cost of Living in Helsinki

Functional, nature-loving capital; offers a safe, egalitarian society with great work-life balance, if you can handle the dark winters.
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$2,476

Average cost per month

1

Distribution of Expenses

Property
57%
Groceries
16%
Eating Out
12%
Transportation
4%
Utilities
7%
Leisure
4%
Property
57%
Groceries
16%
Eating Out
12%
Transportation
4%
Utilities
7%
Leisure
4%

Design district & sauna culture

Baltic coast & long summer light

Tech innovation; high quality of life

Cost of living breakdown for Helsinki

Living costs in Helsinki can vary. You can expect to spend around $2,476 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.

Housing

$1,303Average rent per month in Helsinki
$10,211Price per m² (city centre)
$4,461Price per m² (outside centre)
Housing

Standard of Living

Cost of living index54
Quality of life index92
Safety index81
Standard of Living

Food & Drink

Helsinki average costs for food and drink.

$364Monthly groceries/person
$264Dining out average cost/person
$5Regular coffee
Food & Drink

Salary & Services

Helsinki average salaries and services.

$3,220Average Monthly Net Salary in Helsinki
$84Transport
Healthcare80
Salary & Services

Average living costs in Helsinki

ItemAverage pricePrice range
1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month$1,303.11$1,052.42 - $1,637.09
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month$914.43$760.08 - $1,286.29
3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month$2,254.31$1,870.96 - $3,040.31
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month$1,624.79$1,403.22 - $2,104.83

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Frequently asked questions

The cost of living in Helsinki depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs $1,173 per month without rent, while a family of four requires $4,279. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional $1,303 on average.

Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Helsinki costs $4. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at $84.

The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Helsinki is currently $3,220.

Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Helsinki costs approximately $18, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around $105.

The estimated monthly cost of living in Helsinki for a single person is $1,173, excluding rent.

For a family of four living in Helsinki, the estimated monthly costs are $4,279, not including rent.

Rent prices in Helsinki depend on the area. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is $1,303, compared to $914 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is $2,254 in the centre and $1,625 in suburban areas.

Basic utilities in Helsinki (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of $123 per month. Internet access typically adds another $27.