Is Denmark a Good Place to Live? A Newcomer Guide

We’re social beings, and it is our nature the will to explore other than the usual reasons: work or family. Moving to Denmark is an excellent opportunity to tackle any of them. A great place to move in with family, try new career scenarios and adventure yourself. Denmark is known for its high quality of life and progressive social policies and often ranks as one of the best places to live in the world. But, like any country, it has its pros and cons. This article explores various aspects to determine if Denmark might fit you.

Quality of Life in Denmark

Denmark offers a robust public healthcare system, excellent public transportation, and an emphasis on work-life balance. The average workweek is around 37 hours, allowing its citizens plenty of time to enjoy as they please. Denmark also boasts one of the lowest crime rates globally, making it a safe place to live​. Plus, research has shown the willingness of Danes to change their habits due to the commitment to the green transition the nation has been aiming for. It was one of the first countries to establish an environmental ministry. Today, half of Denmark’s electricity comes from alternative energy sources. This highlights the common goal of the community: the well-being of Earth within all its citizens. 

Pros and Cons of Living in Denmark

Offerings are too good to be true. What might be the catch? Denmark is one of the safest countries, with free and high-quality education, clean air and potable water. You were right. There are some “not that inviting” aspects of this Nordic country. Here are some of the pros and cons of life in Denmark.

Pros:

• It’s easy to get around because most Danes speak English well.

• It’s spotless. Parks, streets…, and public places are all free of trash. Plus, potable water and air quality are excellent.

• Safety is one of its most essential aspects. Denmark has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.

• You can shift from relaxing hikes in beautiful scenarios during the day to a vibrant nightlife. Copenhagen, for instance, is renowned for allowing you to dance all night long, surrounded by live music and beautiful people, while ordering drinks in various venues such as underground clubs, jazz bars, three-story nightclubs, etc.

Cons:

• It’s not for everyone. If you feel reluctant whenever it’s time to take your jumpers out and thrive when the sun is shining, know that fulfilling this particular task will be a bit harder in Denmark.

• You can be bored if your vibe is more geared toward activities that involve a mix of warm days with sunny skies and sandy spots. The recipe is more for rainy plus snow weather.

• Denmark has one of the highest taxes in the world.

• Renting can be a massive headache. The upfront deposits landlords require can be large, sometimes calculating three months’ rent in advance.   

Is it Expensive to Live in Denmark?

Yes, Denmark is known for its high cost of living. Essentials like groceries and dining out can be pricey due to high taxes and import costs. Copenhagen, in particular, is one of the more expensive cities, with rents significantly higher than in other parts of the country. Tax rates are one of the biggest around the world. Still, this pays off in the end, as the community has access to high-quality education, an excellent healthcare system, clean environments, safety, and much more. It’s a matter of choosing what is most important for your needs.

Extra Tips:

Multi-currency Account: Dedicate applications allow you to switch between currencies when you need to make payments in many countries, and most of these apps are free. You can log in and sign up directly from their official website.

Security: Pay attention to the app, links and the site URL where you place your data. There are well-known names, such as Wise, Revolut and WorldRemit. All of these options are UK-based. The last one, WorldRemit, provides diverse places to transfer money to Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

How cold is Denmark in the Winter?

Danish winters can be harsh. It gets dark early, with limited sunlight and cold, windy weather lasting from October to March. However, the holidays can feel quite magical if you’re into them—for example, Christmas, all the lights and decorations around the markets, parks and homes. Perhaps it is a matter of realising how to enjoy what you can get. Being all about cosying up at home can be a fantastic plan. And just for you to know, the summer months are pleasant, often making up for the long winter​, so bear with it if you have no other choice. The winter will pass.

Is Denmark Expat Friendly?

Denmark lures newcomers from all over the world and welcomes expats. Most Danes are fluent in English, facilitating easier integration. However, making close Danish friends can be challenging, as many locals maintain lifelong friendships from early childhood​​. Danes have a culture that requires more effort to become friends with new people; it’s not that they are as closed up as many may think; they like to maintain a well-defined extent of bond each person will have in their lives. Their definition of friends can differ from other cultures; what is considered friends for others, they would see as acquaintances.  A good strategy is to act like the friend you would like to have. You could join study/work groups, book clubs and other associations that will allow you to make connections, especially if they allow you to meet people who share your interests.

Challenges and Perks of Living in Denmark

What are the cons of living in Denmark? Besides the high cost of living, one major challenge is the language barrier. While English is widely spoken, learning Danish is crucial for fully integrating and accessing some job opportunities. The weather and short days in winter can also be a downside for those used to sunnier climates​​. The other side of the coin is that people trust each other, the government has a more open approach to transparency, this spreads to all sectors of life, shaping professional and personal relationships. And for the ones wishing to raise a family, you have to know that according to reports ranks, Denmark scores as one of the best countries for families in the world.

Moving  Services to Denmark

When considering a move to Denmark, you must handle your relocation expenses wisely. Opting for a company specialising in efficient, cost-effective moving solutions makes all the difference. Trust in a reliable service is critical to successfully adjusting to your new residence. Reach out to us to resolve any details with the assurance of a responsive service tailored to your needs. VanOne International Movers boasts counts with a dedicated team eager to assist you, making your move to Denmark more straightforward and economical.

Shifting to Denmark

Denmark offers a unique blend of safety, quality, and lifestyle that is appealing to many. However, before moving, potential expats should consider all aspects, from costs to cultural integration. Living in Denmark provides a balanced lifestyle with challenges, making it essential to weigh these factors based on personal circumstances and preferences. Other than that, yes, it’s a great place to live.