Summary of Could You Survive on 60K USD in Finland?
The video discusses whether one could comfortably live in Finland on an annual income of $60,000 USD, with a focus on monthly living expenses and lifestyle comparisons to the US.
Key Lifestyle and Financial Tips:
- Monthly expenses in a Finnish city (e.g., Helsinki or Lahti):
- Phone bill: ~$20–30 USD (often cheaper than the US; the creator uses Wi-Fi to avoid extra costs)
- Public transport card: ~42 USD/month (pay-per-ride can reduce this)
- Rent: Around $700 USD for a studio in Helsinki; about $500 in smaller cities like Lahti; Student housing can be cheaper (~$250)
- Food: Approximately $300 USD/month, varies by city (noted that food can be more expensive in Helsinki than in smaller cities)
- Total estimated monthly living cost: ~$1,080 USD, significantly less than typical US expenses.
- Comparison: US monthly expenses (including rent) can be around $3,000 USD, making Finland much more affordable.
- Challenges in the US include higher rent and difficulty finding trustworthy roommates.
- Finland’s immigration policies are strict; staying long-term usually requires a valid reason like studying or working.
- The creator is a PhD student in Finland, unpaid but willing to make that choice for the experience.
- The minimum income required to legally stay in Finland after graduation is roughly equivalent to the estimated living costs.
Travel & Location Highlights:
- Helsinki (capital city with higher rent and food costs)
- Lahti (smaller city with lower rent and food costs)
Notable Points:
- The creator, Michaela Peters, compares Finnish and US living costs based on personal experience.
- Emphasizes that $60K USD per year is more than sufficient to live comfortably in Finland.
- Notes cultural differences in trust and roommate dynamics between the US and Finland.
- Highlights the importance of considering visa and residency requirements when planning to live in Finland.
This summary provides a practical overview for anyone considering moving to or retiring in Finland on a $60,000 annual budget.
Category
Lifestyle