Student Accommodation in Estonia
This guide covers how to find housing in Estonia as a student, including dormitories, private rentals, costs, contracts, and practical tips. Procedures, prices, and availability differ by university and city, so always follow your university’s housing instructions and deadlines.
Where Students Live
• Tallinn: Home to TalTech, Tallinn University, Estonian Academy of Arts, and Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre. Popular areas include Mustamäe and Kristiine (close to TalTech), city centre and Kalamaja (central, often pricier), and Lasnamäe (more budget‑friendly).
• Tartu: A classic student city hosting University of Tartu and Estonian University of Life Sciences. Student‑friendly areas include Raatuse/Tähtvere (close to central campuses), Annelinn (budget‑friendly), and city centre.
• Other study locations: Pärnu, Narva, and Viljandi may offer limited dorm places and smaller private markets—apply early.
Accommodation Types
• University dormitories: Furnished rooms in student buildings, usually the most affordable and social option.
• Private rooms in shared flats: Rent your own room, share kitchen/bath with flatmates.
• Studios and one‑bedroom apartments: More privacy and higher cost; good for couples or quiet study.
• Short‑term stays: Hostels, hotels, and homestays for the first days or weeks while you search.
University Dormitories
• Features: Furnished rooms (bed, desk, wardrobe), shared kitchens and bathrooms (sometimes private), laundry rooms, Wi‑Fi, and student support staff.
• Room types: Shared twin rooms, single rooms, studio‑style units in some buildings; mixed or same‑gender floors depending on house rules.
• Pricing (approx.): 90–250 EUR/month depending on city, room type, and building; deposits are common.
• Utilities: Usually included in the dorm fee (electricity, heating, water, internet). Check what’s covered.
• How to apply: After receiving an admission offer, follow the housing instructions in your university portal or housing page. Places can be limited and allocated on a first‑come, first‑served or priority basis.
• Contracts and dates: Many dorms use semester or 10–12 month contracts; confirm start/end dates, renewal rules, and early termination conditions.
• Pros: Lower cost, easy move‑in, built‑in community, short commute. Cons: Less privacy, shared spaces, variable noise levels.
Private Rentals
• Typical monthly rent ranges (approx.):
— Tallinn: Room in shared flat 300–550 EUR; studio/1‑room 450–800 EUR; one‑bedroom 550–900 EUR+
— Tartu: Room 200–400 EUR; studio 350–650 EUR; one‑bedroom 450–750 EUR+
• Utilities (seasonal): 60–180 EUR/month depending on size, insulation, heating type, and winter temperatures.
• Up‑front costs: Usually first month’s rent + security deposit (1–2 months) and possibly an agency fee (often up to 1 month if using a broker).
• Furnishing: Many student‑friendly rentals are furnished or semi‑furnished; verify what’s included (bed, mattress, desk, kitchenware).
• Internet: Dorms often include Wi‑Fi; private rentals may require a contract with a provider—confirm cost, speed, and contract length.
How to Find Housing
• University channels: Check your university’s housing page, dorm portal, and student bulletin boards.
• Real‑estate portals widely used in Estonia: kv.ee and city24.ee for private listings; compare options and filter by area.
• Social media and student groups: University and city‑specific housing groups can be useful; verify posts carefully to avoid scams.
• Agencies: Licensed real‑estate agents can speed up the search (expect a fee). Ensure all terms are documented in the contract.
• Temporary stays: Book a hostel or short‑term rental for 1–3 weeks if you plan to search after arrival.
Timing and Strategy
• Start early: Summer and January are peak times; the best places go fast.
• Prepare documents: Passport/ID, admission letter, proof of funds or guarantor (some landlords may ask).
• Be flexible: Consider different neighborhoods and commute times; proximity to a tram/bus line can be as valuable as proximity to campus.
Contracts and Legal Basics
• Written contract: Always sign a written rental agreement in English or Estonian (ask for an English version if needed). Read terms on rent, deposit, utilities, notice period, and maintenance.
• Inventory and condition report: Document furniture, appliances, and any defects with photos on move‑in; record meter readings for utilities.
• Deposits: Clarify when and how the deposit is returned, what deductions may apply, and the timeline after move‑out.
• Subletting and guests: Usually require landlord permission; check house rules and building regulations.
• Registration of address: After you move in, follow your university’s guidance on registering your address with local authorities as required for visa/TRP or municipal services.
Budgeting Your Housing
• Dorm example (approx.): 150–220 EUR rent + minimal extras if any + bedding/kitchen starter set if needed.
• Private room example (approx.): 350 EUR rent + 90 EUR utilities + internet/TV if separate.
• Private studio example (approx.): 550–750 EUR rent + 120 EUR utilities + internet if separate.
• One‑time costs: Deposit, agency fee (if any), first month’s rent, temporary accommodation on arrival, bedding and kitchenware.
Scam Awareness and Safety
• Do not transfer deposits or rent before viewing (in person or verified live video) and signing a contract with the legal owner or authorized agent.
• Beware of “too‑good‑to‑be‑true” prices and requests for payment via gift cards, crypto, or untraceable services.
• Verify ownership details where possible and keep all receipts; pay by bank transfer for traceability.
• Use reputable portals and official university channels; be cautious with anonymous social media posts.
Practical Move‑In Tips
• Bring or buy: Bedding, towels, basic kitchenware; dorms and many rentals do not provide linens by default (some dorms sell starter sets).
• Heating and ventilation: Apartments can be warm in winter due to central heating; learn how radiators and ventilation work to manage comfort and costs.
• Waste sorting: Estonian buildings frequently separate recyclables (paper, packaging, glass) and mixed waste—follow local rules.
• Insurance: Consider tenant/home contents insurance for personal belongings; check if required by the landlord.
Short‑Term and Transitional Housing
• Book 7–14 nights in advance if you plan to finalize a lease after arrival; extend only as needed to avoid extra costs.
• Coordinate arrival with orientation and key collection times for dorms or agencies.
Special Situations
• Couples/families: Look for studios or one‑bedroom apartments; notify dorms early if family rooms exist (limited).
• Accessibility needs: Contact the housing office early to discuss accessible rooms or building features (elevators, ramps, room layout).
• Pets: Many landlords restrict pets or require extra deposit; confirm terms in writing.
Dorm vs Private: Quick Considerations
• Dorm: Lower cost, community, furnished, fixed terms; less privacy, shared facilities.
• Private: More privacy, choice of neighborhood, flexible styles; higher cost, utility variability, larger up‑front payments.
Ending Your Stay
• Notice period: Commonly 30 days; check your contract for exact rules and penalties.
• Move‑out checklist: Clean thoroughly, repair minor damage as agreed, take final meter readings, return keys, and request deposit settlement in writing.
• Address update: Deregister or update your address if you move; follow university and municipal instructions.
Transport and Commute
• Public transport is extensive in Tallinn and Tartu; students often rely on buses, trams, and bikes. Consider proximity to key lines when choosing a neighborhood.
• Some municipalities offer benefits to registered residents; check local rules after you register your address.
Where to Find Official Information
• Study in Estonia: studyinestonia.ee
• University housing and student services: University of Tartu (ut.ee), TalTech (taltech.ee), Tallinn University (tlu.ee), Estonian University of Life Sciences (emu.ee), Estonian Academy of Arts (artun.ee), Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (eamt.ee)
• Legal and residence matters: Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (politsei.ee/en)
Final Reminders
Apply early for dorms, verify all private rental terms in writing, and plan for deposits and utilities in your budget. Keep copies of contracts and receipts, register your address after move‑in, and ask your university housing office for support if you face challenges. With early planning and careful checks, finding housing in Estonia can be smooth, affordable, and comfortable.
