Cost Comparison 2025

CopenhagenvsSydney

Denmark
Australia

Overall

💰

+2.3%

Copenhagen is 2.3%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+14.3%

Housing is 14.3% higher

Dining

🍽️

-5.3%

Restaurants 5.3% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

0.0%

Food shopping 0.0% same

Comparing the cost of living between Copenhagen, Denmark and Sydney, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Copenhagen is more expensive than Sydney by approximately 2.3%. 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 Copenhagen are lower than in Sydney by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Copenhagen's city center costs around DKK 12,000, while the same in Sydney is approximately A$3,000.

Dining out in Copenhagen costs about the same compared to Sydney. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs DKK 120 in Copenhagen versus A$20 in Sydney.

Public transportation in Copenhagen is more expensive, with monthly passes at DKK 750 compared to A$200 in Sydney.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Copenhagen can expect to spend approximately DKK 4,448 per month (excluding rent), while in Sydney, the same lifestyle would cost around A$804. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about DKK 15,568 monthly in Copenhagen versus A$2,814 in Sydney. 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

Item
Copenhagen, Denmark
Sydney, Australia

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
DKK 12,000
A$3,000
1BR Outside Center
DKK 9,000
A$2,200
3BR City Center
DKK 22,000
A$5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
DKK 120
A$20
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
DKK 700
A$120
Cappuccino
DKK 45
A$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
DKK 50
A$10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
DKK 12
A$2
Bread (500g)
DKK 20
A$3
Eggs (12)
DKK 25
A$5
Cheese (1kg)
DKK 80
A$12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
DKK 24
A$5
Monthly Pass
DKK 750
A$200
Taxi Start
DKK 50
A$5
Gasoline (1L)
DKK 13
A$2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
DKK 1,200
A$150
Internet (60 Mbps)
DKK 300
A$80
Mobile Minute
DKK 1
A$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Copenhagen to Sydney, 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 Sydney to Copenhagen 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

Copenhagen

Cost of Living Index88
Rent Index70
Purchasing Power Index100

Sydney

Cost of Living Index90
Rent Index80
Purchasing Power Index95

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Copenhagen more expensive than Sydney?

The cost of living in Copenhagen and Sydney is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.

How much salary do I need in Copenhagen compared to Sydney?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Sydney salary when living in Copenhagen. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Sydney, you'd need about $51,136 in Copenhagen for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Copenhagen and Sydney?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 13%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. 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, Sydney provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Copenhagen if you prioritize earning potential, or Sydney for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Copenhagen vs Sydney?

In Copenhagen, a single person needs approximately DKK 13,448 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about DKK 31,568. In Sydney, these figures are A$3,004 for singles and A$6,614 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Copenhagen and Sydney 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 Sydney to maintain your lifestyle from Copenhagen

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers