Cost of living in Denmark- A brief guide

Latest Update: As of 12 May 2025 the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) guarantees housing for international full-degree and exchange students relocating to Odense, Esbjerg or Kolding, as long as they apply within the specified deadline.

Denmark is renowned for its high quality of life and high-quality educational system, making it an attractive destination for international students. 

With a population of approximately 5.96 million, Denmark has a GDP per capita of around $68,453, ranking it among the top nations globally. If you're considering studying in Denmark, it's undoubtedly a great choice, offering not only excellent education but also a good standard of living.

This blog will provide a clear understanding of the cost of living in Denmark , covering key expenses like cost of studying, housing, groceries, and transportation. By the end, you'll have practical tips on how to manage your budget while making the most of your time in Denmark.

 An Overview of Cost of Living in Denmark for Indian Students

The cost of living in Denmark for students largely depends on individual lifestyle and the city of residence. Denmark offers an exceptional quality of life, with Copenhagen being ranked the happiest city in the world in 2025. 

However, it is the fourth most expensive city in Europe, with an average cost of living ranging between 5,600 and 10,000 DKK (INR 71.6K - 1.2L). This high standard of living comes with relatively higher expenses, especially for essentials like accommodation, food, and transportation.

The table below provides an overview of the cost of living in Denmark for students​, helping you plan your budget more effectively while managing your finances in Denmark.

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (DKK)	Monthly Cost (INR)
Shared Accommodation (Off-campus)	4000 - 6250	INR 48.7K - 76.1K
On-campus Accommodation	2400 - 3000	INR 29.2K - 36.5K
Food (Eating Out)	1000 - 1500	INR 12.1K - 18.2K
Groceries	1500 - 2000 DKK	INR 18.2K - 24.3K
Transportation	200 - 800 DKK	INR 2.4K - 9.7K
Utilities	150 - 700 DKK	INR 1.8K - 8.5K
Entertainment	500 - 1000 DKK	INR 6.0K - 12.1K
Miscellaneous	500 - 1000 DKK	INR 6.09K - 12.1K
Total (Off-campus)	7,850 - 13,250	INR 95.6K - 1.6L
Total (On-campus)	6,250 - 10,000	INR 76.1K - 1.2L

Note:

• INR values are estimates. Final costs may vary with currency conversion rates at the time of transaction.
• These are estimated costs. Actual expenses may vary depending on lifestyle, location, and currency fluctuations.

Now that you have a broad understanding of the cost of living in Denmark for students​, let’s take a closer look at the cost of studying in Denmark for students. This will help you understand the additional costs related to your academic journey and how to budget for them effectively.

Also Read: Top Reasons to Study in Denmark – Universities, Cost of Living & more

Cost of Studying in Denmark for International Students

Denmark is known for its world-class universities, with the country having the 3rd best higher education system globally. As an Indian student, while you benefit from quality teaching, research opportunities, internships, and exposure to international peers, it's important to understand the costs associated with studying here.

 The table below provides an overview of the typical tuition fees you can expect for each course level, helping you plan your finances effectively for your education.

Course Level	Annual Tuition Fee (DKK)	Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
Bachelor’s Degree	59,680 - 121,598	INR 7.8L - 14.4L
Master’s Degree	55,000  - 114,400	INR 6.7L - 13.9L
Doctoral Degree	450,144	INR 54L

Also Read: Top Reasons to Study in Denmark – Universities, Cost of Living & more

While tuition fees in Denmark can be higher compared to other countries, various scholarships and financial aid options can help ease the financial burden. 

Now, let's take a look at the cheapest universities in Denmark for Indian students, which could further help in managing your study costs effectively.

Cheapest Universities in Denmark for Indian Students

Finding affordable education options is essential for Indian students studying abroad, as poor financial management can lead to difficulties. In fact, nearly 40% of international students face financial struggles during their studies. 

Denmark offers a range of universities with varying tuition fees, and selecting more budget-friendly options can help manage living costs while still receiving quality education.

Here are the most affordable universities in Denmark, providing you with options to reduce cost of living in Denmark for students​.

University	Average Annual Tuition Fee (DKK)	Average Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
University of Southern Denmark (SDU)	46,000 – 63,400	INR 3.7L  – 5.1L
Aarhus University	59,680 – 114,138	INR 7.08L – 13.55L
Niels Brock Copenhagen Business College	92,000 – 185,000	INR 7.46L – 22.55L
University College of Northern Denmark	59,600 – 108,400	INR 4.75L – 8.6L
University of Copenhagen	74,600 – 126,800	INR 6L – 10.15L

Also Read: MBA in Denmark: Best Universities, Costs & Jobs in 2025

Cost of Living in Denmark: City List

The cost of living in Denmark can vary significantly depending on the city you choose to live in. For instance, monthly living expenses for a single person in Copenhagen is typically INR 1.1L excluding rent, but the country’s strong education system makes it a popular choice despite these costs.

In smaller cities like Aarhus and Odense, the living costs are generally lower. Students typically require around 6,000 DKK to 8,000 DKK (INR 72.7K to INR 95.6K), excluding rent. 

As living costs differ across Denmark's cities, breaking down these costs by area provides a clearer idea. Let’s look at the details.

Top 8 Expensive Cities in Denmark

The cost of living in Denmark can differ significantly depending on the city you choose to live in. Understanding the cost of living in Denmark for students in these cities is crucial for proper financial planning, especially since these cities tend to have higher rents and living costs.

For instance, the monthly cost of living in Copenhagen is around DKK 25.8K (INR 3L), whereas it is about DKK 12K (INR 1.4L) in Esbjerg.

The table below highlights the estimated monthly cost of living in Denmark for students​ in the most expensive cities:

City	Average Monthly Cost (DKK)	Average Monthly Cost  (INR)
Copenhagen	25,869	INR 3.09L
Aarhus	16,727	INR 2.00L
Odense	14,668	INR 1.78L
Esbjerg	12,000	INR 1.44L
Aalborg	12,500	INR 1.50L
Hillerød	13,000	INR 1.56L
Frederiksberg	13,500	INR 1.62L
Glamsbjerg	12,200	INR 1.46L

Now that you’ve covered the expensive cities, let's look at the more affordable cities where you can enjoy a similar standard of living without the high costs.

Top 8 Cheapest Cities in Denmark

While Denmark’s capital and larger cities come with a high price tag, there are several smaller cities in Denmark that offer more affordable living options, especially for students. 

For example, the cost of living in Vejle is around DKK 8K (INR 97K), whereas it rises to DKK 8.5K (INR 1L) in Randers.

The table below shows the estimated monthly cost of living in Denmark for students​ in the country’s most affordable cities:

City	Average Monthly Cost (DKK)	Average Monthly Cost (INR)
Vejle	8,000	INR 96.96K
Herning	8,000	INR 96.96K
Silkeborg	8,200	INR 99.72K
Randers	8,500	INR 1.04L
Holbæk	8,500	INR 1.04L
Horsens	8,800	INR 1.06L
Frederikshavn	9,000	INR 1.08L
Nakskov	8,500	INR 1.04L

Apart from city-based expenses, it's also important to account for additional monthly costs that contribute to your overall budget. Let's explore some of the other living expenses students typically incur in Denmark.

Cost of Living in Denmark: Additional Costs

Beyond rent and groceries, students in Denmark should anticipate several other monthly expenses, like clothing and utilities, like internet. The table below provides a breakdown of estimated monthly costs for these categories.

Category	Monthly Cost (DKK)	Monthly Cost (INR)
OSHC (averaged monthly)	300–600	INR 3.6K – 7.2K
Clothing	500–1,000	INR 6K – 12K
Study Materials/Supplies	200–500	INR 2.4K – 6K
Mobile/Internet	200–400	INR 2.4K – 4.8K
Personal Care	100–300	INR 1.2K – 3.6K
Entertainment/Leisure	400–800	INR 4.8K – 9.6K

These extra expenses, often overlooked, can quietly strain your monthly budget, especially when you are adjusting to a new country and managing finances on a budget. Up next, let us explore some practical ways to reduce your living costs in Denmark.

How to Reduce Your Living Costs in Denmark? Key Tips

Living in Denmark can be expensive, especially in cities like Copenhagen, where costs quickly add up with rent, transportation, and daily expenses. This can be a challenge for students, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your living costs while still enjoying your time abroad. 

Here are some key tips to help you cut down on your expenses:

• Find Affordable Housing: Look for shared accommodation or student dormitories, as they are often 50% cheaper than renting an apartment on your own.
• Use Public Transport: Public transport in Denmark is reliable and efficient. Consider using a monthly travel pass to save money up to 30% on transportation.
• Cook Your Own Meals: Eating out can be expensive, so try cooking at home. Buying groceries from discount supermarkets will help you save 50% on the cost of food. 
• Take Advantage of Student Discounts: Many stores, museums, and transport services offer student discounts ranging from 10% - 30%. Make sure to get a student ID card and use it wherever possible to save money.
• Manage Your Utilities Wisely: Be mindful of your electricity and heating usage to avoid high utility bills. Turn off lights when not in use to save 15% - 25% on energy costs.
• Shop Smart: Look for sales and discounts when buying household items. Second-hand shops and online marketplaces can provide cheaper options of up to 30%.

By following these tips and exploring part-time job opportunities, you can reduce living costs and enjoy your time in Denmark. Now, let's see how upGrad can make your study abroad journey easier.

Also Read: Denmark Study Visa: Requirements & How to Apply 

How Can upGrad Support Your Study Abroad Journey

Understanding the cost of living in Denmark is a crucial part of planning your study abroad experience. From tuition fees and accommodation to daily expenses and transport, managing your finances in a new country requires smart choices; and upGrad is here to guide you through them.

With upGrad, you can:

• Get expert advice on selecting affordable universities and courses that align with your career goals.
• Compare the cost of living in Denmark across different cities to make budget-friendly decisions.
• Learn about grants, and student loan options and scholarships available for international students in Denmark.
• Receive end-to-end support with applications, documentation, SOP writing, and visa filing.

Whether you're just starting your research or ready to apply, upGrad makes your journey smoother, more informed, and financially manageable. Book a free one-on-one counseling session with upGrad’s experts and take the first step toward studying in Denmark with confidence.