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Live in Finland: Learn Advantages, disadvantages & costs
Discover what it is like to live in Finland, the happiest country in the world, and learn about its lifestyle, benefits, and challenges.
Finland is known for its magical northern lights, vast forests, clean cities and fresh air, but there is much more to this Nordic country. Year after year, it ranks as one of the happiest places in the world, which makes it an appealing choice for anyone thinking about a long-term move or even just a temporary adventure abroad. If you are curious about what it is really like to live in Finland as a foreigner, you have come to the right place. Here you will find everything you need to know before starting a new chapter in this Scandinavian gem.
How expensive is it to live in Finland? What kind of job opportunities are out there? How do people cope with the long, dark winters? And is it a good destination for digital nomads? We’ll go through these questions one by one, and plenty more along the way. You’ll get a closer look at the quality of life in Finland, the advantages and challenges of settling here, and what it really means to move to one of the most developed countries in the world.
Finland feels like a scene from a winter postcard, but life here is much more than snowy landscapes. It is a country that combines safety, modern living and an impressive sense of balance. Known for its strong institutions, world-class education system and stunning natural scenery, it has plenty to offer beyond its beauty. And with over 180,000 lakes, it is a dream destination for anyone who loves peace, quiet and the outdoors.
This is just a brief introduction to what life in Finland has to offer. Let’s see what else we can expect from this corner of Northern Europe.
What is the quality of life like in Finland?
The quality of life in Finland is high whether you are living in Helsinki or in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Every year, people from around the world are drawn here by the country’s balance between work and personal life, its strong sense of community, its responsible approach to natural resources, and its clean, well-designed cities.
Finland is a country that values fairness, sustainability, and the well-being of its people above all else. You can see this in its trustworthy institutions, orderly cities, strong sense of safety, and respect for the community. It’s no wonder the country consistently ranks among the best in the world for quality of life.
We want you to board your flight feeling confident about your next destination. Here’s a look at what life in Finland is really like, from healthcare and education to work opportunities, digital connectivity, and everyday lifestyle.
1- Education in Finland
Finland is a global leader in education. Its system focuses on equal opportunities, respecting each student’s individual pace, and a teaching approach that emphasizes deep understanding over memorization.
In Finland, children attend school for free from age seven to sixteen, and public education is open to everyone. Many schools offer classes in English or programs designed to help children of immigrant families feel at home. On top of that, students can enjoy free extracurricular activities, school transport, and meals.
At the higher education level, public universities in Finland are free for EU/EEA citizens. For students from other countries, annual tuition typically ranges from about $6,500 to $19,500, depending on the program and university. However, both the Finnish government and the universities themselves offer scholarships that can cover part or all of these costs, providing a significant financial relief for students.
It’s worth noting that Finland is home to several highly regarded universities known for their academic excellence. While many programs are taught in Finnish, there is also a wide range of courses available entirely in English.
We have a very comprehensive article on how to study in Finland as a foreigner that we recommend you read.
2- Healthcare system and medical services
Finland offers universal public healthcare, so legal residents can get medical care through Kela, the national social security agency. Services are very affordable, a typical doctor’s visit runs around $22 to $33, and a night in the hospital is about $55, with yearly limits to keep costs manageable. Prescription medicines are partially subsidized, with patients covering roughly one-third to two-thirds of the price, and special discounts available for chronic conditions.
There are also private health insurance options that can supplement the public system, though they aren’t required. Many expats choose this extra coverage because private clinics often offer faster service, even if the costs are higher.
Remember that to access the public system as a foreigner, you need to have valid residence and be registered with Kela.
3- Cost of living in Finland
Finland isn’t exactly a budget-friendly place to live, particularly in major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, or Espoo. That said, the excellent public services, reliable transportation, and the fact that education and healthcare are so affordable make the higher living costs easier to manage. Day-to-day expenses are still lower than in much of Western Europe and, on average, living in Finland can be around 10% cheaper than in the United States. When you compare it to its Nordic neighbors, Finland tends to cost a bit more than Sweden but less than Norway and Denmark.
Let’s take a closer look at the impact of different elements on the cost of living in Finland:
- Rent. Housing is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to living in Finland, especially in Helsinki. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can run anywhere from $870 to $1,300 a month, while prices drop as you move further out. Outside the capital, it’s possible to find good-quality housing at a much more reasonable cost.
- Utilities. Utilities such as electricity, water, waste collection, and heating usually add up to about $110–165 per month.
- Food. Food and drinks tend to be pricier in Finland than in many other EU countries, but the quality is excellent. On average, you should budget around $270–430 a month for groceries and the occasional meal out. To give you an idea, dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant usually comes to about $65–85.
- Transportation. Finland has a well-organized public transportation system, with monthly passes usually costing between $55 and $75 depending on the city. If you own a car, you’ll need to factor in taxes, insurance, and fuel, which tend to be on the higher side.
A single person can live quite comfortably in a major city in Finland with a monthly budget of about $1,400 to $1,950. In smaller towns or mid-sized cities, living costs drop significantly.
4- Job market and salaries
Finland’s job market is competitive, but opportunities are within reach if you have technical training, a university degree, or solid work experience. Sectors with the highest demand include technology, telecommunications, energy, education, healthcare, social services, cleaning, and logistics.
What are salaries like in Finland? Let’s take a look:
- Official minimum wage: There is no official minimum wage, but collective agreements by sector establish it.
- Average net monthly salary: Between $2,800-3,700, depending on the area.
So while the cost of living is not exactly low, salaries are fair and reflect the expenses. Working in Finland also means reasonable hours, respect for your free time, and generous vacation policies. A healthy balance between work and personal life is deeply rooted in the culture here, and it is something many other countries could learn from.
Foreigners who arrive in Finland with a work contract can apply for residency directly from their home country. There are also special permits available for entrepreneurs, researchers, students, freelancers, and even a visa designed for digital nomads.
5- Healthy lifestyle and habits
Nature is all around in Finland, and locals weave it into their everyday lives. Activities like hiking, skiing, biking, swimming in lakes, picking mushrooms, or enjoying a sauna are part of the routine. This active lifestyle contributes to Finland having the lowest obesity rate in Europe and high levels of overall happiness, according to the World Happiness Report. With clean air, low population density, safety, easy access to services, and a culture that values peace and quiet, life in Finland is both healthy and calm.
Finns place a strong emphasis on personal space, order, punctuality, and a simple way of living. At first, this might come across as reserved or distant, but over time you come to appreciate the honesty and reliability of the relationships.
6- Internet connectivity and digital life
Finland ranks among the countries with the best digital infrastructure in the world. Internet coverage is nearly universal, reaching even rural and forested areas. Average connection speeds in cities exceed 200 Mbps, and 5G is available throughout all major urban centers.
Digital life is fully woven into everyday life in Finland. Administrative tasks, banking, education, and healthcare can all be handled online. On top of that, everyone has a unique digital ID (eID) that lets you manage daily activities right from your phone. There is also a wide range of apps for transportation, delivery, learning, healthcare, and sustainability. In short, if you are a digital nomad or work remotely, you will be happy to know that Finland is one of the best countries in the world to stay connected.
Having your own mobile data while in Finland will help you make the most of the country’s digital infrastructure. We recommend a monthly plan from Holafly with options for 25 GB, or unlimited data, which provides fast and reliable internet for work, video calls with family, downloading study materials, uploading files, using Google Maps, and much more. The best part is that their eSIM is global, so you can travel across Europe or even the rest of the world without having to switch plans.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
What are the advantages of living in Finland?
Moving to Finland is not just about going to a new country. It is about experiencing a different way of looking at life. From how people connect with nature to how they organize daily life, Finland creates an environment that values well-being, calm, and practicality.
Here are some of the key benefits of living in Finland, beyond the obvious, to help you understand why so many people make this northern European country their home.
1. A society that works
Finland stands out for its efficiency. Government services are reliable, public systems run smoothly, streets stay clean, transport is punctual, and corruption is almost unheard of. Everyday life flows easily, with strong social trust, respect for rules, and a real sense of community.
2. Daily contact with nature
Finland is one of the greenest countries in Europe, with forests covering more than 70% of the land and nearly 188,000 lakes throughout the country. You do not have to go far to enjoy nature. Just a short walk from cities like Helsinki or Tampere can take you into the heart of the outdoors. National parks, hiking routes, and lake areas are a regular part of life in Finland.
3. Culture of silence and respect
Life in Finland has a peaceful rhythm. There is no constant noise, crowds do not rush, and people are mindful of shared spaces. Silence is valued as part of daily life. It may feel unusual at first, but over time it becomes something you really appreciate. The sense of calm is unmistakable.
4. Safety in every sense
Finland is among the safest countries in the world. Crime is rare, streets feel calm at any time of day, and the justice system works reliably. People can live without constant worry, leave their phones on a café table, and let children explore independently from a young age. There is also financial security, with dependable services, social support, and safety nets for tough times.
5. High quality air, water, and food
Clean air is part of daily life in Finland, not a luxury. Tap water is safe to drink across the country, even in rural areas, and food quality is excellent. Strict regulations cover pesticides, meat, dairy, and processed foods. This results in a healthier and more reliable diet, ideal for anyone who focuses on their physical well-being.
6. Emotional well-being and personal balance
Finland has repeatedly ranked at the top of the World Happiness Report, and it is easy to see why. People enjoy a strong balance between work and personal life, with respect for schedules, vacations, and free time. There is a culture of disconnecting, privacy is valued, and employees have plenty of independence. Together with the surrounding nature, this creates an environment that encourages lower stress and greater focus.
What challenges does living in Finland entail?
Living in Finland comes with many benefits, but it also means adjusting to a way of life very different from Latin or Mediterranean countries. The climate, culture, and certain everyday habits can be challenging at first. These are not major problems, but they are important factors to keep in mind if you are considering a long-term move.
Below, we outline the biggest challenges of living in Finland from the perspective of those arriving from other cultural contexts.
1. Long, dark, and challenging winters
One of the biggest challenges for newcomers is the climate. Winters in Finland can last from October to April, with temperatures dropping below -20 °C in the north and only about four hours of daylight per day, especially in December and January.
If you are not used to prolonged cold or darkness, it can take a toll on your mood and energy. Seasonal affective disorder is common, so using bright light lamps, staying active, and spending time outside even on cloudy days can help. If you are especially sensitive to the cold, you might want to avoid Lapland. Rovaniemi is stunning, but it is also the coldest part of the country.
2. Difficulty integrating at first
Finns are polite and kind, but also reserved. They are not usually touchy or prone to chatting with strangers. Building friendships can take time, and at first it may feel a bit hard to break into social circles.
This does not mean you cannot form connections, but it takes patience, consistency, and some cultural adjustment. Hobby groups, outdoor activities, or academic settings are usually good places to start.
3. Finnish language: Difficult and not widely spoken
English is widely spoken in many cities, and most young people speak it well, but Finnish remains the official language. It is quite challenging, with a complex grammar and little resemblance to any Romance or Germanic language.
Still, we highly recommend learning the basics of the local language if you plan to stay for more than a few months. It can make handling paperwork, work, transportation, and interactions with older people much easier. It may also be essential for certain jobs or accessing some public services.
4. High cost of living
Finland is not cheap. Rent, imported goods, restaurants, and entertainment tend to be more expensive than in many Latin American or southern European countries. While salaries and the quality of services help offset costs, living off savings or without a local income can make your budget feel tight.
The good news is that registered residents can easily access transportation, public health, and education.
5. Slow initial bureaucracy for foreigners
Even though Finland is highly digital and well-organized, getting started with things like registering as a resident, obtaining a tax number, renting a place, or accessing healthcare can take time, especially if you arrive without a work contract or a university to support your stay.
The processes themselves are not difficult, but they can be slow if you do not have the right documents or do not speak the language. It is best to prepare in advance and get help if it is your first time handling official procedures in Northern Europe.
Frequently asked questions about living in Finland
If you are not an EU citizen, you will need a long term visa to stay in Finland for more than three months, whether it is for work, study, or joining family. You should arrange this at the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel. After arriving, you will need to apply for a residence permit.
The most popular Finnish cities among foreigners are:
– Helsinki: The capital and is known for its innovative architecture and vibrant cultural and arts scene. It also offers plenty of job opportunities. However, it can be more expensive than in other cities in Finland.
– Espoo: Located near Helsinki and shares many of the same qualities, but the cost of living is lower. For this reason, it is a popular choice for families moving to Finland.
– Rovaniemi: The capital of Lapland and the coldest region in Finland, is a beautiful city with the lowest crime rate in the country and a lower cost of living than Helsinki. It is also the gateway to the stunning natural wonders unique to this part of the world.
– Oulu: A small city in northern Finland known for its calm and friendly atmosphere. It offers excellent healthcare and education systems, standing out in many areas.
– Tampere: A very popular city among students and families, offering an excellent quality of life and lower costs than Helsinki.
You do not have to, but it is a good idea. In cities such as Helsinki, Tampere, or Turku, most people speak English, so daily life is manageable. Still, Finnish or Swedish may be necessary for official matters, university studies, or public sector jobs. Knowing the basics also makes it easier to connect socially and culturally.
Yes, especially if you have a university degree, technical experience, or strong English skills. The biggest opportunities are in fields such as technology, healthcare, education, logistics, cleaning, and hospitality. Finnish is usually required for public or administrative jobs. If you arrive with a job offer, you can apply for residency directly.
Finnish winters are long, cold, and have very few hours of daylight, which can affect your mood if you are not used to it. Still, the country is well prepared: heating is efficient, streets are cleared of snow, there are plenty of winter activities, and indoor spaces are very comfortable. The key is to dress appropriately and keep active.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
