Greenland Cost of Living Calculator

Short answer: The average monthly cost of living in Greenland for a single person typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,500, depending on housing, location, and employer benefits.

This cost of living calculator helps estimate monthly expenses for living in Greenland based on location and lifestyle.

The figures provided are estimates intended for planning purposes. Actual costs vary depending on housing availability, employer benefits, and personal habits.

How this calculator works

The calculator is based on typical expense categories in Greenland:

  • Housing and utilities
  • Food and groceries
  • Internet and mobile services
  • Local transportation
  • Personal and household expenses

You can adjust values based on your expected situation.

Cost of living in Greenland: quick answers

Is Greenland expensive to live in?

Yes. Greenland is considered expensive due to imported goods, limited housing, and high logistics costs.

What is the average monthly cost of living in Greenland?

Most foreigners spend between $2,000 and $3,500 per month, depending on housing and benefits.

Is housing the biggest expense in Greenland?

Yes. Housing is usually the largest monthly cost and the main limiting factor for relocation.

Does employer-provided housing reduce costs?

Yes. Employer housing can reduce monthly expenses by $800–$1,500 or more.

Is food expensive in Greenland?

Imported food is expensive. Local products and employer meals can lower costs.

Select your location

Costs vary significantly by town. Location:
Nuuk Other large town Small town or settlement

Housing costs

Housing is usually the largest expense. Monthly housing cost (estimate):

Tip: Employer-provided housing may significantly reduce this cost.

Food and groceries

Monthly food and groceries:

Imported food items are expensive. Local products may reduce costs.

Utilities and services

Utilities (electricity, heating, water):

Internet and mobile

Internet and mobile services:

Transportation

Local transportation and travel:

Other personal expenses

Personal and household expenses:

Estimated monthly total

Estimated total:

How to interpret your estimate

If your estimated monthly cost is:

  • Below $2,000: Usually possible only with employer-provided housing and benefits.
  • $2,000–$3,000: Typical for single workers with partial benefits.
  • $3,000–$4,000+: Common for independent housing or family relocation.

This value represents an approximate monthly cost of living.

Typical cost of living scenarios

Single worker with employer housing

Housing provided, basic utilities included, moderate food and transport costs.

Single professional renting privately

Private apartment, higher utilities, imported food dependence.

Couple or family relocation

Larger housing, higher food and transport costs, limited availability.

Important notes

  • Costs are higher than in most European countries
  • Housing availability may matter more than price
  • Employer benefits can significantly change totals
  • Seasonal costs may vary

Can local salaries cover this cost?

Your estimate should always be compared to realistic net income in Greenland.

Many foreign workers rely on:

  • Employer housing
  • Travel allowances
  • Tax-adjusted contracts

See: Salaries in Greenland

Use this estimate for planning

This calculator is intended to support early planning and comparison.

Before relocating, always confirm:

  • Housing arrangements
  • Net salary after taxes
  • Included benefits and allowances

Related guides

Last updated: January 2026