Cost Comparison 2025

LondonvsCopenhagen

United Kingdom
Denmark

Overall

💰

-7.4%

London is 7.4%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-17.6%

Housing is 17.6% lower

Dining

🍽️

0.0%

Restaurants 0.0% same

Groceries

🛒

+6.3%

Food shopping 6.3% more

Comparing the cost of living between London, United Kingdom and Copenhagen, Denmark reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that London is more affordable than Copenhagen by approximately 7.4%. 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 London are higher than in Copenhagen by 21%. A one-bedroom apartment in London's city center costs around £2,500, while the same in Copenhagen is approximately DKK 12,000.

Dining out in London costs about the same compared to Copenhagen. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs £18 in London versus DKK 120 in Copenhagen.

Public transportation in London is more affordable, with monthly passes at £180 compared to DKK 750 in Copenhagen.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in London can expect to spend approximately £716 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 £2,505 monthly in London 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

Item
London, United Kingdom
Copenhagen, Denmark

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
£2,500
DKK 12,000
1BR Outside Center
£1,800
DKK 9,000
3BR City Center
£5,500
DKK 22,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
£18
DKK 120
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
£80
DKK 700
Cappuccino
£4
DKK 45
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
£6
DKK 50

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
£1
DKK 12
Bread (500g)
£2
DKK 20
Eggs (12)
£3
DKK 25
Cheese (1kg)
£10
DKK 80

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
£3
DKK 24
Monthly Pass
£180
DKK 750
Taxi Start
£4
DKK 50
Gasoline (1L)
£2
DKK 13

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
£200
DKK 1,200
Internet (60 Mbps)
£35
DKK 300
Mobile Minute
£0
DKK 1

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Copenhagen to London, 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 London 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

London

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index85
Purchasing Power Index90

Copenhagen

Cost of Living Index88
Rent Index70
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is London more expensive than Copenhagen?

No, London is approximately 7.4% cheaper than Copenhagen. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 93% of your Copenhagen salary when living in London. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Copenhagen, you'd need about $46,569 in London for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between London and Copenhagen?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 21%, 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, London provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider London if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Copenhagen for better value.

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

In London, a single person needs approximately £2,516 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about £6,005. 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 London 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 London

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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