Living in Aarhus: the ultimate expat guide

Aarhus offers excellent employment opportunities across diverse sectors, particularly for skilled professionals. The city's economy thrives on life sciences, renewable energy, IT, engineering, and business services. Major employers include Novo Nordisk, Vestas Wind Systems, and Grundfos, alongside a vibrant startup ecosystem supported by Aarhus University's innovation hubs. The local labor market benefits from Denmark's flexicurity model, which combines flexible hiring practices with strong social safety nets for workers.

Work Permits and Visa Requirements

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens can work in Denmark without a permit but must register with SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration) to receive a registration certificate. Non-EU/EEA nationals need a residence and work permit before starting employment. The most common schemes include the Pay Limit Scheme (for high earners making at least DKK 448,000 annually), the Positive List Scheme (for professions experiencing shortages, updated every January and July), and the Fast Track Scheme for positions with SIRI-certified companies. Processing typically takes 1-2 months. Applications are submitted online through the SIRI website, and employers often sponsor these permits.

Key Employment Indicators

Sources: Happy City Index, Numbeo, Relocate.me

Aarhus is home to Aarhus University (AU), Denmark's second-largest university and one of Northern Europe's leading research institutions. Founded in 1928, AU currently enrolls over 38,000 students from more than 100 countries and employs 8,000 staff members, including 550 professors. The university consistently ranks among the top 150 globally (QS World University Rankings 2026: #131) and offers exceptional standards in research and teaching across five faculties.

Academic Programs and Admissions

Aarhus University offers more than 50 Master's and Bachelor's programs taught entirely in English, spanning arts, business, natural sciences, technical sciences, and health. Popular fields include engineering, computer science, business administration, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. The university's Business School (BSS) holds Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS), placing it among the elite 1% of business schools worldwide. Admission requirements vary by program but generally include recognized bachelor's degrees for Master's programs, English language proficiency (typically IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 83), and program-specific prerequisites. The application deadline for most programs is mid-January to March for autumn admission.

Tuition Fees and Student Life

Tuition at Aarhus University is free for EU/EEA and Swiss citizens. Non-EU/EEA students pay annual tuition ranging from DKK 45,000 to DKK 120,000 (approximately USD 6,500 to USD 17,500), depending on the program. The university offers various scholarships and has a strong support system for international students, including buddy programs, housing assistance, and career services. With a 90% employment rate among graduates, AU provides excellent career prospects. Student housing is available through Kollegiekontoret and other providers, with monthly rents ranging from DKK 3,000 to DKK 6,000 (approximately USD 450 to USD 900).

Official website: Aarhus University International

Aarhus provides excellent educational options for expatriate families, combining Denmark's renowned public education system with quality international schools. Education is compulsory in Denmark from ages 6 to 16, and families can choose between municipal schools, private schools, or homeschooling, provided standards are met.

International Schools

Aarhus International School (AIS), founded in 2011, is the city's primary international school for children aged 3 to 16. The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, with both the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) fully authorized. AIS operates across two campuses: the Early Years Kindergarten in Højbjerg for ages 3-6, and the main campus on Dalgas Avenue in central Aarhus for grades 1-10. With over 300 students from 34 nationalities, AIS creates a diverse, English-speaking environment while also teaching Danish language and culture. Annual tuition ranges from DKK 37,708 to DKK 47,520 (approximately USD 5,500 to USD 7,000). Aarhus University employees receive a 20% discount on tuition. The school is recognized by Danish educational authorities and provides seamless transitions for globally mobile families.

Public and Reception Classes

Municipal Folkeskoler (public schools) offer free education in Danish and are an excellent option for families planning a long-term stay. Children with limited Danish skills attend reception classes to develop language proficiency before joining regular classes. For EU/EEA citizens, children can also access free Danish language classes in dedicated programs. Public schools typically operate from August to June with a standard curriculum that includes mathematics, Danish, English, science, and arts.

Sources: Aarhus International School, International Aarhus

Aarhus offers diverse housing options ranging from modern waterfront apartments to charming historic residences. The rental market is competitive but more accessible than Copenhagen, though starting your search early is advisable. Most rentals are unfurnished, and leases typically require a deposit of three months' rent.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

Aarhus C (City Center): The bustling heart of the city offers proximity to shops, restaurants, cultural venues, and public transport hubs. Ideal for professionals who value convenience and urban living. Frederiksberg: A trendy neighborhood popular with young professionals and families, featuring excellent cafes, restaurants, and markets. Latin Quarter: Historic charm meets modern amenities in this area with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and Michelin-starred dining. Aarhus Ø: A modern waterfront development offering contemporary apartments, business spaces, and recreational areas with stunning harbor views. Viby J and Højbjerg: Suburban areas ideal for families, offering more space, green areas, and proximity to international schools.

Rental Costs

Sources: Numbeo, Relocate.me

Finding Accommodation

Popular rental platforms include BoligPortal, Lejebolig, and Boligbasen. University students can access housing through Kollegiekontoret or Ungdomsboliger.dk. When viewing properties, verify the condition, heating costs (which can be significant in winter), and proximity to public transport. Rental contracts should clearly state terms, deposit amounts, and notice periods.

Aarhus offers a rich cultural landscape that rivals cities many times its size. From world-class museums to vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, and a thriving culinary scene, there's always something to discover in Denmark's second city.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is the crown jewel of the city's cultural offerings. Ranked among Northern Europe's largest art museums, ARoS welcomes over 624,000 visitors annually and features 10 floors of exhibitions spanning classical to contemporary art. The iconic Your Rainbow Panorama by artist Olafur Eliasson offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city through colored glass. In 2026, ARoS will unveil The Dome, a massive Skyspace by James Turrell, further cementing its status as a world-leading art institution. Den Gamle By (The Old Town) is a unique open-air museum showcasing Danish urban history from the 16th century to the 1970s, with 75 historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and themed exhibitions. Moesgaard Museum, with its stunning architecture, brings prehistory and Viking lore to life through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Other notable venues include DOKK1, Scandinavia's largest public library and a modern cultural hub, and the Viking Museum in the city center.

Festivals and Events

The annual Aarhus Festival (Aarhus Festuge), held each late August/early September, transforms the entire city into a stage with music, theater, art, dance, and culinary events. The Aarhus Food Festival celebrates Nordic cuisine with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and sustainable food practices. Throughout the year, the city hosts jazz festivals, Christmas markets, and cultural celebrations that reflect its international character.

Outdoor Activities and Dining

Nature lovers can explore Marselisborg Forest with its hiking trails and deer park, or swim year-round at Den Permanente harbor baths. The city's waterfront and beaches offer perfect spots for relaxation. Aarhus's dining scene ranges from Michelin-starred restaurants in the Latin Quarter to cozy cafes and the Aarhus Street Food market. The Aarhus Central Food Market provides affordable options showcasing local and international cuisines. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around DKK 150 (USD 22), while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant averages DKK 700 (USD 101).

Daily life in Aarhus combines efficiency, sustainability, and Nordic charm. The city's compact size makes it easy to navigate, whether by public transport, bicycle, or on foot. Danes value punctuality, work-life balance, and environmental consciousness, creating a society where quality of life is prioritized.

Public Transportation

Aarhus boasts an excellent public transport system operated by Midttrafik, consisting of yellow city buses and the modern Letbanen (light rail). The light rail has two lines: L1 runs between Aarhus Central Station and Grenaa, while L2 connects Odder with Lisbjergskolen, passing through key locations like DOKK1 library and Aarhus University Hospital. Buses run frequently during peak hours (6-8 departures per hour on A-lines), with comprehensive coverage across the city and region. A monthly pass costs DKK 420 (approximately USD 60), while single tickets are DKK 24 (approximately USD 3.50). The Rejsekort electronic card offers the best value for frequent travelers. Tickets must be purchased before boarding via the Midttrafik app, Rejsebillet app, or Rejsekort. The city is also exceptionally bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes throughout.

Lifestyle and Danish Culture

Aarhus embraces hygge, the Danish concept of coziness and contentment. Social life often revolves around cafes, dinner parties, and outdoor activities. Danes are generally reserved but friendly once you get to know them, and English is widely spoken in professional and social settings. The standard work week is 37 hours, and most shops close by 6 PM on weekdays and earlier on Saturdays. Sundays see limited opening hours. Supermarkets like Føtex, Bilka, and Netto are popular for groceries. The city offers excellent recreational opportunities, from forest walks in Marselisborg Forest to swimming at Den Permanente beach baths. Banking typically requires a CPR number (personal identification number), obtained after registering your address with the local municipality. The MitID digital identification system is essential for online banking, government services, and many daily transactions.

Aarhus ranks as Denmark's second most expensive city after Copenhagen, with a monthly cost of approximately EUR 2,285 (DKK 17,000) for a single person and EUR 5,875 (DKK 43,700) for a family of four, including rent. However, high salaries and excellent public services help offset these costs. Living in Aarhus is approximately 18% cheaper than Copenhagen, making it an attractive alternative for expatriates.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, Relocate.me, Aarhus University