Despite Copenhagen's making it to the list of most expensive cities in the world, it also ranks as one of the best places to live. Achieving a good balance between family and work can be realized in Denmark.
The Danish national currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Denmark is one of few remaining states that did not join the single currency of the EU, the euro. The Danes' decision to be exempted from the euro is due to its steady success over the past decades.
Renting a Property
Rented accommodations in multi-storey buildings are mostly privately owned and found in urban areas. Most of the properties for lease are of a high standard and spacious. A typical house in the suburbs has a garden. Some of the most beautiful apartments are located in picturesque historical buildings.
Prices vary depending on the location. Monthly rent for an apartment ranges from DKK 6,000 to DKK 25,000. Prices for houses range from DKK 10,000 to DKK 40,000 monthly.
Contracts are drawn to set out the terms and conditions of a tenancy. The tenant is required to live in the property for at least 180 days per year and must register the new address with the National Registration Office. A security deposit equivalent to up to three months rent is required and a month's notice should be given to the landlord prior to leaving the property. The deposit will be returned in full (or less if any damage to the property is incurred) at the end of the tenancy.
Buying a Property
EU citizens can purchase property in Denmark without permission from the Ministry of Justice. The only requirement is to attach a statement to the deed of sale that the property will be used as a year round residence.
Non-EU nationals on the other hand, need permission from the Ministry of Justice to purchase property and must confirm that the property will be the buyer's residence throughout the year. Buyers must also have a valid residence or business permit prior to purchasing a property.
Utilities
Most lease contracts include the cost of utilities in the monthly rent. If it is not covered, utility bills like gas, electricity and water will depend on consumption and are expensive in Denmark, as the locals limit the energy consumption to protect the environment.
Food Consumption
Dining out and buying groceries are both expensive, but can be considered a worthwhile cost. Danish cuisine, often of a good quality, is becoming more health conscious and includes traditional food like pickled herring, plain curry with red spices and assorted seafood.
Expats can also enjoy many restaurants offering international cuisine like French, Greek and Chinese. A typical low cost meal is approximately DKK 50.00. A luxurious dining experience can cost DKK 175.00 or more.
The price for a loaf of bread is DKK 9.00, one kilogram of prime brand coffee costs DKK 62.33 and 10 medium eggs cost DKK 24.00. A kilogram of cheese cost 81.36 and a liter of milk costs DKK 7.28.
Smoking is costly in Denmark, be prepared to shell out DKK 34.00 for a pack of 20 Danish cigarettes. Typically, a small bottle of beer is DKK 6.00.
Tax
Denmark is one of the countries with a high value added tax (VAT). It is a flat rate of 25%. However, public transportation and health care costs are not taxable in Denmark.
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