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Is it Possible to Live for Less Than 1000 USD in Helsinki?
Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is known for its high standard of living and expensive cost of living. It is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in Europe, and many people believe that it is impossible to live there for less than 1000 USD per month.
However, is this really the case? In this blog post, we will explore the cost of living in Helsinki and see if it is possible to live there on a tight budget.
Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Helsinki. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 900 USD per month, according to Numbeo. However, it is possible to find cheaper accommodation if you are willing to live further away from the city center or share an apartment with roommates.
You can find shared apartments for as low as 300 USD per month, and studios outside of the city center can be rented for around 500 USD per month. If you are willing to live in a suburb, you can find studios for as low as 350 USD per month.
Food and Groceries
The cost of food and groceries in Helsinki is also relatively high compared to other European cities. However, there are ways to save money on food and still eat healthily.
One way is to cook at home and buy groceries from budget-friendly supermarkets such as Lidl and K-market. Eating out in Helsinki can be expensive, but there are plenty of street food vendors and student cafeterias that offer affordable meals.
Transportation Costs
Transportation in Helsinki is efficient, and the city has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trams, and trains. The cost of a single ticket is around 2.50 USD, but you can save money by purchasing a monthly pass for around 60 USD. If you have a bicycle, you can also cycle around the city for free.
Other Expenses
Other expenses such as utilities, internet, and entertainment can vary depending on your lifestyle. The cost of utilities, including electricity, water, and gas, can range from 50-100 USD per month, depending on how much you use. Internet packages start at around 20 USD per month, and there are plenty of free entertainment options such as parks and museums.
Conclusion
While Helsinki is known for its high cost of living, it is possible to live there for less than 1000 USD per month. By finding a roommate, living outside of the city center, cooking at home, and taking advantage of the public transportation network, you can save money on housing, food, and transportation.
Of course, your quality of life may be affected by living on a tight budget, and there may be some sacrifices you need to make. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy all that Helsinki has to offer without breaking the bank.
So, if you are thinking of moving to Helsinki, don’t let the high cost of living scare you off! With some research and planning, you can make it work on a tight budget.
An Insider’s Guide to Helsinki: Can You Live Here on Less Than $1000?
Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, showcases an eclectic mix of ancient architecture, modern design, gastronomy and cultural experiences. Can you live here on less than $1000? The answer is, it depends. Helsinki is home to some of the highest costs of living in the world, but with careful planning and insider tips, you can stretch your budget a long way. This guide will show you how to experience the best of Helsinki without breaking the bank.
Local Attractions
Helsinki is home to numerous iconic landmarks and attractions; many of these sights are completely free of charge or affordable. Starting with the city’s most recognizable symbol, Helsinki Cathedral. Built in 1852, the white cathedral with its green domes is open to the public and free to visit. For a small fee, you can climb up to the viewing platform on the dome for panoramic views of the city.
Another iconic landmark of Helsinki is the Market Square, or Kauppatori. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike and is the perfect place for a stroll. You can explore the market stalls, sample local Finnish food, and buy souvenirs. The Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is another popular place to visit, and it’s accessible via ferry throughout the day. The sea fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been preserved as a museum.
Dining Spots
While Helsinki is known for its high-priced restaurants, it’s not hard to find great food that goes easy on your wallet. For example, the Hakaniemi Market Hall is a great place to eat, featuring an array of food stalls serving everything from traditional Finnish food to sushi and burgers.
For those who enjoy Asian cuisine, head to Helsingin Uusi Aasialainen, which offers excellent sushi at reasonable prices. Löyly, a popular Helsinki coffee spot, also serves comfort food and sandwiches using locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural Experiences
Finnish culture is one of a kind, and Helsinki is a great place to immerse yourself in it. One of the best places to visit for cultural experiences is the Museum of Finnish Architecture. It’s situated in a historic building and showcases Finland’s cultural history. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month.
The National Museum of Finland is one of the oldest and biggest museums in the country. It focuses on the Finnish historical culture and offers exciting exhibitions throughout the year. Art lovers should not miss the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases contemporary art from all over the world.
Local History
Helsinki’s history is rich, and the best way to experience it is by visiting one of the city’s many museums and historic buildings. For example, the Helsinki City Museum is a good starting point to learn about the city’s history. It’s situated in an old building and features exhibitions that tell the story of Helsinki.
The Sederholm House is another historic building worth visiting. Situated at the heart of the city by the market square, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The house showcases life in the 18th century and has a cafe that serves traditional Finnish delicacies.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you’re looking for something unique, off-the-beaten-path experience, Helsinki has a lot to offer. For example, you can do a self-guided walking tour in the district of Kallio. Kallio is a vibrant area full of cafes, bars, and restaurants with original shops and graffiti murals. In addition, the district features several antique shops and hidden courtyards that are worth visiting.
Another recommendation is to explore the city on a bike. Helsinki has an excellent bike-sharing system where you can rent a bike for just €5 per day and explore the city on two wheels. You can cycle around the city center or explore the coastline bike lanes and enjoy the views of the Baltic Sea.
In conclusion, Helsinki is a city of contrasts, where the modern meets old, and luxury meets affordability. The city boasts beautiful architecture, cultural experiences, and delicious food and drinks. By following the tips given in this guide and planning ahead, Helsinki is entirely doable with a budget of $1000.
