Despite its northern climate, Finland is one of the most comfortable and safe countries in Europe. Known for its high standards of living, stable economy and progressive social system, this Scandinavian country attracts both tourists and those who want to settle here. Find out what expenses are expected in Finland, how salaries are formed in different industries, what is the structure of healthcare, education and housing costs

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In Finland, a convenient urban environment is combined with picturesque natural landscapes, and the developed infrastructure is complemented by high-quality medical, educational and social services. However, living in Finland also has its own peculiarities: high taxes, considerable housing and food costs, and some competition in the labor market. We are going to talk about the financial aspects of living in Finland: expenses, salaries and general living conditions in one of the most developed countries in Europe.

Renting a house in Finland and utilities

Finland provides two main options for renting housing: municipal apartments and private housing.

Municipal housing is more affordable due to government subsidies, which reduces the cost of

rental costs. A municipal apartment rental company has more than 16,000 apartments in its balance sheet across the country, including the cities of Helsinki, Turku, Oulu, and Vantaa. However, the process of renting municipal housing can take several months due to high demand.

✔️ A one-bedroom apartment in Helsinki will cost 800-1300 € per month

✔️ In the cities of Turku, Oulu or Vantaa, prices for one-bedroom apartments start at €600.

✔️ Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Helsinki starts at 750 €, and in smaller cities - from 550 €.

Housing in Finland for Ukrainians on a municipal basis is becoming increasingly difficult to find, but not impossible. To do this, you need to submit the relevant applications yourself. This can be done on the official website of your city. For example, here is the link for the city of Espoo - www.espoonasunnot.fi. In general, there are certain categories of persons who are eligible to submit such an application. If at least one of the points corresponds to your situation, then the chance of getting a subsidized apartment for rent is quite high:

1. Citizenship of Finland;

2. Registration of the right to stay in the country;

3. Residence permit card;

4. Permit to stay in the country for a period of one year or more;

5. Residence permit for students

Thus, Finland provides Ukrainians with the same rights to housing under state programs as for other foreigners.

Renting a house in Finland for a long term will not always be more expensive than renting an apartment in Finland. Thus, the prices for renting private houses outside of large cities start from 500 € for a small area, and reach 2500 € and above for houses with an area of more than 70 square meters.

Please note! The cost of renting a house in Finland includes compulsory apartment insurance, which is approximately €100 per year for a standard apartment.

✔️ The cost of utilities varies from 200 to 300 € per month depending on the type of building and location.

✔️ Internet will cost 20-30 € per month.

✔️ Mobile communication will cost 20-50 € per month.

In the previous article, we provided instructions on how refugees from Ukraine can obtain permanent residence in Finland

Important! Renting an apartment in Finland for Ukrainians may be subject to additional conditions. Often, apartment owners require a certificate of income or previous rental experience.

You can learn more about moving and living in Finland in our guide to this Scandinavian country

Cost of food and prices in supermarkets in Finland

The high cost of living in Finland also affects the pricing policy in the country's supermarkets. Thus, food prices in Finland are on average 20-30% higher than in most EU countries.

The main supermarket chains in Finland are K-Market, S-Market, Lidl and Alepa.

The monthly grocery budget for a family of two is approximately €400-500. Here are the approximate prices for basic goods:

- Meat (pork, beef): 15-25 € per kg.

- Fish: from 12 € per kg.

- Milk: 1.2 € per liter.

- Fruits and vegetables: apples - 3.5 €, tomatoes - 4 € per kg.

- Bread: about 2 € per loaf.

Please note! Sales of goods with expiration dates can save up to 30-60% of the cost of goods! Finland also has a widespread system of recycling containers. You can get from 10 to 40 cents for bottles and cans.

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The cost of entertainment and recreation in Finland

Finland is a touristically developed country and offers a wide range of activities for all seasons. Cafes, restaurants, and other food establishments are popular among the locals, and according to statistics, one Finn spends about 4700 € per year.

✔️ In middle-class establishments, dinner for two with a glass of wine will cost 90-120 €.

✔️ Ticket to the museum: 12-15 €.

✔️ Going to the movies: 11-17 €.

✔️ Fitness club: a monthly subscription costs from 45 to 65 €.

✔️ A single visit to the pool: about 7 €.

There are many free parks, forest trails, winter sports, and places for walking in Finland for budget leisure. Cultural events and festivals are often held in public places and are accessible to all.

Transportation costs in Finland: public transport and your own car

Finland has a well-developed public transportation system. In large cities, it is easy to do without a car, as transportation is well integrated. At the same time, the cost of a single ticket is quite expensive - 3-4 €. The price of a monthly pass varies from 52 to 97 €.

Those who plan to use a car should consider the following costs:

- Fuel: from 2 € per liter.

- Parking: 2-4 € per hour.

- Maintenance and transportation insurance: about 200 € per month.

Important! Winter tires are mandatory during the cold season in Finland.

Driving in Finland with a car with Ukrainian registration requires a compulsory insurance policy. In order to avoid fines and troubles on the roads of Finland or other European countries, take out GREEN CARD insurance in advance. This type of car insurance is mandatory for traveling abroad.

Healthcare in Finland

The public healthcare system in Finland (Kerho) is free of charge for citizens and persons with a residence permit. However, for expats, the cost of medical services varies, and therefore it is recommended that foreigners have health insurance.

The average cost of a visit to a doctor in Finland is as follows:

✔️ In a district hospital: from 20 €.

✔️ In a specialized hospital: from 40 €.

✔️ Hospitalization costs about 50 € per day.

In private medical facilities, prices are much higher, but they allow you to get help quickly and have access to specialists without queues. If you have insurance, most of the costs in a private clinic are covered by the insurance company.

✔️Первинний examination by a general practitioner: from 100 to 150 € per visit.

✔️Консультація by a narrow specialist (e.g. cardiologist, gastroenterologist): 150-250 €.

✔️Аналізи and diagnostics (e.g., blood tests or ultrasound): 50 to 300 € depending on the type of procedure.

✔️Стоматологічні services: consultation and examination cost 50-100 €, but complex procedures, such as filling or root canal treatment, can cost from 100 to 500 € depending on the clinic and the level of complexity.

Earlier we wrote that Finland will refuse protection tosome refugees from Ukraine

Health insurance in Finland

For foreigners who do not have a permanent place of residence, health insurance is critical. The cost of insurance varies depending on age, health status and type of coverage.

The main insurance packages of the Finnish public insurance include:

- Basic insurance (emergency care and basic services only): 250 to 400 € per year.

- Extended insurance (covers most medical services, including dentistry): from 600 to 1000 € per year.

Important! Protection from private insurers can be more profitable and convenient for foreigners than a state insurance policy. You can apply for guaranteed protection and wider health insurance coverage online at Visit Ukraine.

Average salaries and labor market in Finland

The average salary in Finland is one of the highest in Europe. According to the latest data, the average annual income is over €43,000, which is approximately €3,600-3,700 per month after taxes.

Professions in information technology, medicine, and engineering can earn significantly more, while earnings in the service sector are usually lower.

✔️ Technology sector: engineers, programmers and developers earn an average of €4,000-6,000 per month. The IT sector offers some of the highest salaries in the country.

✔️ Medicine: doctors and medical staff earn €5,000-7,000, depending on their specialization and experience.

✔️ Education sector: teachers' salaries in schools range from €3,000 to €4,500, depending on the level of education and experience.

✔️ Construction and manufacturing: salaries for skilled workers such as electricians, welders, or carpenters range from €2,800-4,000 per month.

✔️ Service sector: employees in hotels, restaurants and retail receive an average of €2,000-3,000.

Please note! Special labor market adaptation programs are often organized for foreigners in Finland, including language courses, vocational training, and job search support. It is important to keep in mind that knowledge of Finnish or Swedish significantly increases the chances of successful employment, although it is possible to work in English in technology and international companies.

Conclusion. So how much does it cost to live in Finland?

Is Finland expensive? Taking into account all expenses, the cost of living in Finland for a family of 2 people will reach from 2200 to 2400 € per month. This amount covers basic expenses for rent, food, transportation and entertainment. The cost of living may be lower in rural areas or small towns, where rent and some services are more affordable.

The cost of living in Finland for a single person will be lower - from 1400 € per month.

If you are already in Finland or are planning to move to this Scandinavian country, you may need qualified legal assistance. Contact our immigration lawyers to get answers to your questions about the legal aspects of staying in Finland. You can also order professional advice or full legal support on visa issues for traveling to Finland and other countries of the world.

Just a reminder! Starting from September 1, Finland has changed its entry rules for foreigners.

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