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Study in Estonia: Housing & Living Costs

The cost of living has risen in Estonia in recent years, but it’s still one of the more affordable members of the Eurozone. The cost of living is notably lower than in Austria or Estonia’s Baltic neighbor Finland. 

Mar 28, 2018

The cost of living has risen in Estonia in recent years, but it’s still one of the more affordable members of the Eurozone. The cost of living is notably lower than in Austria or Estonia’s Baltic neighbor Finland. 

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Most international students find themselves in either Tallinn or Tartu, the second city. As the cost of living is higher in Tallinn than in Tartu, these costs will reflect those of Tallinn. 

Some average living costs (in EUR and USD) are:

  • Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): €530 ($630)
  • Utilities (monthly average): €180 ($210)
  • Monthly public transport pass: €30 ($35)
  • Meal (inexpensive restaurant): €9 ($10.60)
  • Coffee: €2.80 ($3.30)
  • Milk (1 liter): €0.75 ($0.90)
  • Vegetables (1kg): €
  • Eggs (dozen): €0.50 ($0.60)
  • Water (1.5 liter): €0.80 ($0.95)
  • Chicken (1kg): €5.50 ($6.50)
  • Wine (bottle): €7 ($8.30)
  • Bread (loaf): €0.80 ($0.95)

You can drink the tap water across Estonia, so bottled water won’t be an everyday cost.

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As in many countries, rent is counted as a separate cost in Estonia. This means that the average cost of living in Estonia is €660 ($780) per month.

Estonia has two healthcare systems: one public, one private. The public system is called the Haigekassa. It’s funded through taxes. It’s open to anyone and everyone who pays taxes in Estonia. To access it, your employer will also need to pay taxes on your employment contract. Haigekassa healthcare is of a high standard with good access across the entire country.

The private system is insurance-based, much like the American healthcare system. The health insurance that you’ll need to get your student visa might give you access to this system. You can check with your insurance provider or with a private provider once in Estonia.

As your student visa allows you to work, many students supplement their income with a part-time job. If you speak English, it’s not too difficult to find work, particularly in the main cities of Tallinn, Tartu and Pärnu.

Study in Estonia

Want an overview of Estonia? Do you want to know a little more about this Baltic State? The section gives you an overview of all you need to know.

Education in Estonia

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Estonia? Estonia is a good destination for a variety of students, given its good programs, reasonable fees and its natural beauty. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Estonia!

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to enter Estonia to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. 

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Estonia can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Estonia, but these fees are normally quite low. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.

Language & Culture

Estonia is a country rich in political significance and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of its language, culture, and more! We also talk about safety in Estonia in this section.

Application Process

Learn more about how to apply to Estonian schools and the documentation you need to do it in this section.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Estonia? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Estonia today!

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.