Introduction
Finnish currency and cost of living
The currency of Finland has been the Euro since 2002. Compared to other European countries, the use of debit and credit cards is very popular for payments in Finland.
Use of the 1 and 2 cent coins in Finland is rare – instead the Fins prefer to round the amount up to the nearest 5 cents. It is however possible to use the 1 and 2 cent coins if you have them.
Paying for purchases by cash is somewhat rare in Finland as the use of credit and debit cards is widely encouraged. You can pay for goods and services by card almost anywhere. For credit card purchases you may be required to present some form of personal identification at the till.
Cost of living in Finland
Finland was declared the world’s most expensive country towards the end of the 20th century, though the good news is that prices have started to decrease since then.
As a general guide the cost of living in Finland is fairly high, though in some respects it can be comparable to the rest of Europe. Goods such as alcohol and tobacco can be quite expensive, whereas substantial purchases such as accommodation can be quite reasonably priced. Prices are naturally higher in Helsinki than the rest of Finland.
VAT in Finland is 22% and is included in the prices for most products and services.
Also in this section
- Introduction: Finnish currency and cost of living
- Banking: Finnish banks and bank accounts
- Accessing money: Credit cards, bank loans and travellers' cheques
- Bank loans in Finland: Can you secure a loan as an expat?
- Money transfers: Transferring money to and from Finland