How much does it cost to live in Tallinn, Estonia?

Tallinn, the stunning capital of Estonia, is a popular destination for expats looking to live somewhere with a good standard of living and exceptional quality of life. But, while many people know that Tallinn is relatively inexpensive compared to other popular European cities, it can be difficult to determine just how much it costs to live in Tallinn. In this guide, we’ll take a look at all the key costs associated with living in Tallinn so that you can be sure you’ve got all the information you need for budgeting correctly.

Accommodation

Accommodation is the biggest expense in any city, and this is no different in Tallinn. Rental rates will depend on the size and location of the property, but generally, you can get a one-bedroom apartment in a decent part of town for around 650 euros per month. Utilities (such as water, electricity and heating) are usually an additional cost on top of this and can vary between 60 to 70 euros per month. If you’re looking at buying property, you should budget for up to 2000 euros per square metre depending on the neighbourhood.

Food and Dining Out

Eating and dining out in Tallinn is quite affordable, with a mid-range restaurant meal for two people costing around 30 to 40 euros. Food from supermarkets is also relatively cheap and most staples (such as meat, vegetables and fruits) can be purchased for around 10 euros per kilo.

If you like to dine out often, there are plenty of restaurants offering three-course business lunches for around 10 euros which generally offer excellent value for money. For those with a sweet tooth, Tallinn’s reputation for its delicious cakes is well-known and pastries cost from 1 euro upwards.

Transport

The public transport network in Tallinn is efficient and affordable, with tickets costing around 2 euros per journey (or 1.60 euros with a student discount). It’s also possible to buy monthly passes which are discounted double-digit percentages. Taxis are also quite affordable, with a standard trip across the city costing around 10 euros during the day and more at night.

If you prefer to walk or cycle everywhere, you’re in luck – Tallinn is very pedestrian-friendly and also has bike lanes in many areas. And thanks to the low crime rate, leaving your bicycle outside isn’t usually an issue (you still should buy a bike lock though).

General Living Costs

Monthly rent may be high but general living costs for essentials in Tallinn are quite low. Clothing and electronics are generally much cheaper than other cities in Europe, with designer clothes being sold at a fraction of their usual price. There is no sales or luxury tax, so any items imported from abroad can also be purchased for a significant discount.

Also worth noting is that services such as hairdressing, beauty treatments, sports centre entrance and cinema tickets are all quite reasonably priced.

What’s the Final Verdict?

Overall, Tallinn is definitely an affordable city compared to other European capitals and is definitely possible to enjoy an excellent quality of life while living on a reasonable budget. To give you an idea of what to expect each month, you should budget for approximately 1000 euros per month including accommodation, utilities, food and all other essential expenditure — although this can easily be more (or less) depending on your individual circumstances. If you’re looking to move to an exciting European city with a vibrant culture and lots of activities to do, then Tallinn could be for you!
For more information about the cost of living in Tallinn Numbeo’s official database is an excellent resource for providing accurate information about living costs in different areas.

The Insider’s Guide to Tallinn, Estonia

If you’re planning a trip to Tallinn, Estonia, you’re in for a treat. This charming city is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. However, there’s more to Tallinn than meets the eye. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the hidden gems and unique experiences that the city has to offer.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

Whilst the Old Town is a must-visit place with its charming cobbled streets and historic buildings, there are hidden corners of the city that are less explored. Head to Telliskivi Creative City, Tallinn’s hipster area, where you’ll find street art, design shops, and unique bars and restaurants. Another fantastic hidden gem is the Kalamaja neighbourhood, which was once a Soviet fishing village and now boasts colourful wooden houses, beautiful parks, and unique eateries.

If you want to experience the beauty of Tallinn from a different perspective, head to the towers of St. Olaf’s Church. This is the tallest medieval structure in Tallinn, and the views from the top are breathtaking.

Dining Spots: A Culinary Adventure

The Estonian cuisine has Nordic and Russian influences and is relatively unknown to the world. Some must-try dishes include black bread, smoked fish, and elk stew. For an authentic experience, head to F-Hoone, a casual bistro in the Telliskivi Creative City. The menu features dishes made from local and sustainable ingredients and complements perfectly with the urban vibe of the neighbourhood.

You could also visit one of the oldest traditional restaurants in Tallinn, Olde Hansa, which offers a medieval dining experience with a candlelit atmosphere, live music, and servers wearing costumes. It’s like stepping into a time machine and experiencing Tallinn as it was hundreds of years ago.

Cultural Experiences: Uncovering the Traditions

Estonia is a country rich in traditions, and Tallinn is no different. Dig deeper into the city’s culture by attending the St. Nicolas Maritime Festival in the summer or the Estonian Song Festival in July. The latter has been taking place since 1869 and features a choir of 20,000 singers.

Another fascinating cultural experience that you could have in Tallinn is visiting the KUMU Art Museum. This award-winning museum showcases Estonian art and features contemporary and modern art exhibitions.

Local History: Stories Untold

Tallinn has a rich history, and there are countless tales to be told. One such story is that of the Kalevipoeg’s grave, the legendary Estonian hero. According to folklore, this is where the giant’s body lies buried. It is situated in a park near the city center and is still a popular place for locals to gather for picnics or play frisbee.

The city also boasts a fascinating maritime history, and you can learn all about it at the Seaplane Harbour Maritime Museum. This modern museum showcases Estonia’s maritime culture and history through interactive exhibitions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For an unforgettable day trip experience from Tallinn, head to the Estonian island of Hiiumaa. Here you’ll find beautiful natural landscapes, stunning beaches, and hiking trails. You could also visit the Tahkuna Lighthouse, which offers spectacular views and features a small museum about its history.

If you fancy something more upbeat, you could go clubbing at one of Tallinn’s most unusual nightclubs. Located in a disused power station, the legendary club Loomelinnak is a unique venue that offers techno music and an industrial ambiance. You might even meet some local artists or DJs there.

In conclusion, Tallinn is a city that has something for everyone, and there are many unique experiences to be had. You could visit the traditional Old Town or explore some of the hidden gems and local attractions. Taste the delicious Estonian cuisine, learn about the city’s rich culture and history, and embark on some unforgettable off-the-beaten-path adventures.