AmsterdamvsCopenhagen
Overall
💰+10.0%
Amsterdam is 10.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠-6.7%
Housing is 6.7% lower
Dining
🍽️+18.8%
Restaurants 18.8% pricier
Groceries
🛒+21.4%
Food shopping 21.4% more
Comparing the cost of living between Amsterdam, Netherlands and Copenhagen, Denmark reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Amsterdam is more expensive than Copenhagen by approximately 10.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Amsterdam are higher than in Copenhagen by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam's city center costs around €1,900, while the same in Copenhagen is approximately DKK 12,000.
Dining out in Amsterdam offers significant savings compared to Copenhagen. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Amsterdam versus DKK 120 in Copenhagen.
Public transportation in Amsterdam is more affordable, with monthly passes at €100 compared to DKK 750 in Copenhagen.
Grocery shopping in Amsterdam is more affordable by approximately 18%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Amsterdam can expect to spend approximately €586 per month (excluding rent), while in Copenhagen, the same lifestyle would cost around DKK 4,448. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €2,050 monthly in Amsterdam versus DKK 15,568 in Copenhagen. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Amsterdam to Copenhagen, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Copenhagen to Amsterdam requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Amsterdam
Copenhagen
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amsterdam more expensive than Copenhagen?
Yes, Amsterdam is approximately 10.0% more expensive than Copenhagen overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Amsterdam compared to Copenhagen?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Copenhagen salary when living in Amsterdam. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Copenhagen, you'd need about $55,000 in Amsterdam for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Amsterdam and Copenhagen?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 18%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Copenhagen offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Copenhagen provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Amsterdam if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Copenhagen for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Amsterdam vs Copenhagen?
In Amsterdam, a single person needs approximately €2,086 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €4,550. In Copenhagen, these figures are DKK 13,448 for singles and DKK 31,568 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Amsterdam and Copenhagen in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Copenhagen to maintain your lifestyle from Amsterdam
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