Living & Accommodation in Estonia for Pakistani Students 2025

Choosing to study abroad is not only about academics — it’s also about lifestyle, culture, and comfort. For Pakistani students planning to study in Europe, Estonia offers a safe, affordable, and welcoming environment that makes adjusting to student life smooth and enjoyable.

With its modern infrastructure, efficient transportation, and vibrant student cities like Tallinn and Tartu, Estonia provides international students with an excellent quality of life. This article explores living conditions, accommodation options, transportation, food, and social life for Pakistani students in Estonia.

General Lifestyle in Estonia

Estonia is a peaceful and technologically advanced country where almost everything can be done digitally — from paying bills to signing documents. The country’s efficient public services, clean environment, and well-developed infrastructure make everyday living easy for international students.

Estonians are known for their respectful, calm, and helpful nature, which makes the adjustment period easier for Pakistani students who may be living abroad for the first time.

The major student cities — Tallinn (the capital) and Tartu (the university city) — are filled with youthful energy, offering cultural festivals, libraries, cafés, and affordable leisure options for students.

Cost of Living Overview

The overall cost of living in Estonia is lower than in most Western European countries. Pakistani students can manage their monthly expenses between €600 and €800 depending on their lifestyle and accommodation choice.

Students can further reduce expenses by sharing apartments, using student discounts, and cooking meals at home.

Accommodation Options for Pakistani Students

Estonian universities provide multiple accommodation choices that cater to different budgets and preferences. The two main types are university dormitories and private apartments.

• University Dormitories
  • Cost: €100 – €200/month
  • Features: Shared rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms; basic furniture included.
  • Advantages: Affordable, located near campus, includes utilities.
  • Ideal For: First-year students and those looking to save money.
• Private Apartments
  • Cost: €250 – €400/month (for single rooms or small studios)
  • Features: More privacy, larger spaces, and independence.
  • Advantages: Flexible lifestyle, often includes Wi-Fi and heating.
  • Ideal For: Senior students or those preferring quiet environments.
• Shared Apartments
  • Cost: €150 – €300/month per person
  • Features: Shared rent and utilities with other students.
  • Ideal For: Pakistani students traveling in groups or with friends.

Most universities such as the University of Tartu and Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) assist international students in finding dormitories or connecting them to trusted housing agencies.

Transportation and Mobility

Estonia’s transportation system is efficient, reliable, and student-friendly.

• Public Transport: Buses, trams, and trolleys operate frequently in all major cities.
• Student Discounts: Students receive up to 50% discounts on monthly passes.
• Tallinn Perk: Registered residents of Tallinn can use public transport for free!
• Cycling: Cities like Tartu and Tallinn are bicycle-friendly with dedicated bike lanes.

Average transportation costs for students range between €25 and €40 per month.

Food and Dining

Estonian cuisine is simple yet delicious, influenced by Nordic and Baltic traditions. Pakistani students can easily find Halal food and international groceries, especially in Tallinn.

Popular supermarket chains such as Selver, Rimi, Prisma, and Maxima offer fresh produce and affordable groceries.
A typical student spends around €200–€300 per month on food, depending on whether they cook or eat out.

Halal & Pakistani Restaurants in Estonia:

• Clayhills Gastropub (Tallinn) – offers international halal options.
• Pakistani Tandoori (Tallinn) – authentic Pakistani and Indian dishes.
• Elevant Restaurant (Tallinn) – Indian-Pakistani fusion menu.

Cooking at home is always more economical, and many dorms include shared kitchens where students can prepare their meals.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

International students in Estonia are allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays.
Common part-time jobs for students include:

• Café or restaurant work
• Teaching or research assistantships
• Freelance digital work or tutoring

Hourly wages typically range between €6 and €10, depending on the job type and location. Working part-time helps Pakistani students cover daily expenses and gain European work experience.

Health, Safety, and Well-Being

Estonia is among the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a strong community-oriented environment.
Students must have valid health insurance, covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses during their stay.

Healthcare facilities are modern, and university health centers provide affordable or free consultations for students.

Student Life and Social Integration

Estonia’s multicultural student environment encourages diversity and inclusion. Pakistani students can join various student organizations, cultural associations, and volunteering clubs that help them integrate and make new friends.

Universities also organize:

• International Student Orientation Weeks
• Cultural Festivals and Sports Events
• Networking Sessions with Local Businesses

The cities’ vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere ensures a balanced lifestyle between academics and recreation.

Internet and Digital Lifestyle

Estonia is known as the world’s most digital nation, offering free Wi-Fi access in most public areas, campuses, and libraries.
Students can complete administrative tasks, pay bills, and even vote online — reflecting Estonia’s advanced digital infrastructure.

Conclusion

Living in Estonia as a Pakistani student is both affordable and rewarding. From secure housing and modern facilities to accessible transportation and cultural inclusivity, Estonia ensures international students enjoy a comfortable and enriching experience.

With its safe environment, digital convenience, and low cost of living, Estonia provides an excellent standard of life that supports both academic and personal growth for Pakistani students pursuing higher education in Europe.