Study in Latvia: Housing & Living Costs
Latvia is one of the more low-cost countries in the Eurozone. This means that you can live well on less than you would need in some other Eurozone countries, like Germany or the Netherlands. But you’ll still need to budget.
Latvia is one of the more low-cost countries in the Eurozone. This means that you can live well on less than you would need in some other Eurozone countries, like Germany or the Netherlands. But you’ll still need to budget.
As most international students find themselves in Riga, these costs will reflect the cost of living in the capital. Some average costs (in EUR and USD) are:
- Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): €430 ($500)
- Utilities (monthly average): €160 ($185)
- Monthly public transport pass: €50 ($60)
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): €8 ($9.50)
- Coffee: €2.60 ($3)
- Milk (1 liter): €0.90 ($1.10)
- Vegetables (1kg): €1.50 ($1.75)
- Eggs (dozen): €1.95 ($2.30)
- Water (1.5 liter): €0.60 ($0.70) *
- Chicken (1kg): €5.40 ($6.30)
- Wine (bottle): €7 ($8.20)
- Bread (loaf): €0.85 ($1)
* This reflects the cost of bottled water. You’ll need to factor this in as it’s not safe to drink the tap water in Latvia.
In Latvia, rent is normally counted as a cost separate from living expenses. This means that the average cost of living for one person is roughly €620 ($725) per month.
Healthcare in Latvia is universal, but is hindered by long waiting times and poorer access to the latest medicines and treatments. That being said, it’s only available to Latvian and EU citizens and residents. That’s why you need health insurance when you apply for your student visa. State healthcare is only available in the event of emergencies.
Many students like to supplement their income with a part-time job. But, unless you speak good Latvian, it can be difficult to find work. However, some international students whose first languages are global languages, like English, French and Spanish, do find side work as language tutors.
Study in Latvia
From ancient woodland to a vibrant business district, Latvia has a lot to offer international students. Find out a little more about the Land of Blue Lakes, as Latvia is known, in this section.
Education in Latvia
Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Latvia? Latvia is a good destination for a variety of students, given its good programs, lifestyle and internship opportunities. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Latvia!
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Latvia 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 Latvia can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Latvia, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.
Language & Culture
Latvia is a country rich in culture heritage and significance. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of languages, culture, and more! We also talk about safety in Latvia in this section.
Application Process
Learn more about how to apply to Latvian schools and the documentation you need to do it in this section.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Latvia? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Latvia today!
Keystone Team
Author
The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.