Tartu, Estonia

"Before retiring in Tartu, expats should be aware that the city is the second largest in the country and is known for its vibrant student culture. Expats should also be aware that the city is home to a number of universities and research institutes, making it a great place to stay for those looking to stay active and engaged in their retirement. Additionally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Tartu is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to retire on a budget. Finally, expats should be aware that the city is well-connected to the rest of the country and Europe, with a number of international flights and train connections available," commented one expat who made the move to Tartu.

"Tartu is the second largest city in Estonia and is known for its vibrant student culture. It is a great place to live for expats, with a low cost of living and a high quality of life. The city is well connected to the rest of Europe, with direct flights to many major cities. English is widely spoken in Tartu, making it easy for expats to communicate. The city is also home to a number of universities, making it a great place to study or work. The climate in Tartu is generally mild, with cold winters and warm summers. Expats should be aware that the city can be quite rainy, so it is important to bring appropriate clothing. Finally, expats should be aware that the city is quite small, so it is important to plan ahead and research the area before moving," explained one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Tartu is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation in Tartu. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Tartu. Finally, you can also ask around in the local community for recommendations on places to rent," wrote a member in Tartu.

"Expat homes and apartments in Tartu are typically modern and comfortable. Many of the apartments are located in the city center, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The apartments are usually well-equipped with modern appliances and furnishings, and often have balconies or terraces with views of the city. Expats can also find larger homes in the suburbs, with gardens and plenty of space for families," commented one expat who made the move to Tartu.

"The cost of housing in Tartu is generally quite reasonable. Rent prices for apartments in the city center tend to be higher than those in the suburbs, but overall the cost of living in Tartu is quite affordable. Prices for one-bedroom apartments in the city center range from around €400 to €700 per month, while two-bedroom apartments can cost up to €900 per month. In the suburbs, prices are usually lower, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from €300 to €500 per month and two-bedroom apartments costing up to €700 per month," said one expat in Tartu.

"Expats in Tartu can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining a church or other religious organization, or volunteering with a local charity. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups for expats living in Tartu, as these can be great resources for finding out about local events and activities," wrote a member in Tartu.

"When moving to Tartu, it is important to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing in the winter months. It is also a good idea to bring a raincoat and umbrella, as the area experiences a lot of precipitation. Additionally, it is recommended to bring a good pair of walking shoes, as Tartu is a very walkable city. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other paperwork required for your move," wrote a member in Tartu.

"Before retiring in Tartu, expats should be aware that the city is the second largest in the country and is known for its vibrant student culture. It is also home to a number of universities, making it a great place to stay for those looking to continue their studies. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Tartu is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to retire on a budget. Additionally, the city is well connected to the rest of the country and Europe, with a number of international flights and trains available. Finally, expats should be aware that the city is home to a diverse range of cultures and languages, making it a great place to experience a variety of cultures," wrote a member in Tartu.

"Foreigners often have jobs in Tartu in a variety of fields, such as teaching, hospitality, IT, and retail. Many foreigners also work in the service industry, such as restaurants, cafes, and bars. Additionally, there are opportunities for foreigners to work in the healthcare sector, as well as in research and development," explained one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"Tartu is a great destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique and exciting place to live. The city is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the city's many museums and galleries to taking part in the city's lively nightlife. Tartu also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from modern apartments to traditional wooden houses. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. Tartu is also well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it easy to travel to other countries. All in all, Tartu is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique and exciting place to call home," said one expat in Tartu.

"The education of people here. Bonfires. Jaanipäev. Birthdays. Jõul. The healthy food and healthy lifestyle. Healthy food is more affordable than unhealthy food and at gatherings I don't have to worry about unhealthy things being served. It's almost always high quality and healthy. It's also easy to walk or ride your bike everywhere. The appreciation for nature - both being in nature and also how green the cities are and how green the lifestyle is here. I'm still thankful over how easy it is to recycle and that I don't have to drive a car. I also don't produce as much waste here. The air quality is great too. There's free buses in some cities. The train is clean and a joy to take. The sincerity and honesty. People mind their own business out of respect. There's no small talk with strangers. I don't have a lot acquaintances or any fair weather friends. Even friends and family here respect my privacy and I do the same. I like what "respect" is here and what's considered manners. There's not as much classism. People don't ask where I work unless it's for a reason. My value isn't on how much money I make. In fact, it's not a flashy culture. That might actually be a little taboo. What is considered success is not the same as in the states and I like that. People don't flash being happy either and when it is there, it is genuine. It's not a competition. I see happiness now as a reserved sacred thing. It's a valuable treasure that I share with loved ones not strangers. I'm somewhat joking but somewhat not. Kohuke and kohupiim The humour. Lots of sarcasm and dry. It can be dark at times or just plain ridiculous. The movie Vanamehe Film is funny. I joke around with a straight face now sometimes. Family oriented and friends for life. It's one of the cliches here. I don't know how much of this is true but for me it is. The friends I have here mean the world to me and it is for life. The work and leisure balance. I know I am saying a lot of cliches here but these things are what I appreciate. I like living within the EU. I can travel easily and traveling is more a part of the culture here. I also like all the perks that most hear about in the states like vacation time and affordable medical. SPRING!!! Electric scouters Cafe culture The quiet break during the first part of winter, after an exciting summer. After this short break, it's time for saunas and the national winter sport of complaining. Complaining about how cold it is in the winter but really it isn't that cold, I'm just complaining because it's dark. Everything is miserable and all hope is lost..... or at least everyone acts like it during winter. It's a fun national winter sport that I like to take part in. It's not a religious nation and if others are it's kept private and seen as a personal thing. It's other's business not mine. I feel a type of contentedness and security that I never did in the states. I don't know what exactly it is about the culture here but I feel a type of safeness and comfy feeling that I don't really have a word for. It solidifies more and more as time goes on. I now experience culture shock when I go to the states which I hardly ever go anymore. How adaptable everyone is. Humble and adaptable. Also how quickly things progress here. Things change quick. There's always a new building being erected or fresh paint being put on somewhere. Even more rural places have made so much progress since I've been here yet people are still humble. Estonia is developing so rapidly that there is something new every year. The people are just as adaptable and they are the reason why things have progressed so wonderfully. Go Estonia!!!! It's peaceful and quiet. I can keep going on because I appreciate all but three things about Estonia. Estonia really is my home. I am in it for the long haul. One more thing and it's too hard to break down why this is but..... The very high quality of life I have here in comparison to how it was in the states. You won't see me smiling in public but my life is good. I'm thinking it's this way with a lot of people here. You just have to know where to look or more like....how to live in Estonia. The things that matter really do matter. So you get those things and live that way and then you're good. It's as simple as that," said one expat who made the move to Tartu.

"Expatriates in Tartu appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, which includes a wide variety of festivals, concerts, and other events. They also enjoy the city's rich history, which is evident in its many museums, galleries, and monuments. Expats also appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals, who are always willing to help out newcomers. Additionally, Tartu's natural beauty, with its forests, rivers, and lakes, is a major draw for expats. Finally, the city's low cost of living and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for expats," explained one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"Expats in Tartu often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As the majority of the population speaks Estonian, it can be difficult for expats to communicate with locals and to access services. Additionally, the local culture is quite different from many other countries, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the customs and traditions of the area. Furthermore, the winter months can be particularly challenging for expats, as the temperatures can drop to below freezing and the days are much shorter," said one expat who made the move to Tartu.

"1. There was tension surrounding the language and I was harrassed a couple of times because I didn't speak Estonian. The worst part about this is that they were medical professionals. The situation with the language has changed and I haven't had a bad experience for awhile but it was the most challenging part. 2. There's tension between Estonians of Russian decent and Estonians that are not of Russian decent. This could also play into the language being made out to be something to hold over others who don't speak the language. It's not everyone though. It's just loud by a small few and it has gotten better. Estonia is a place of improvement and progression at a rapid speed. So this and the above challenge might not even exist anymore. 3. The quality of medical care is below westernized standards. It's not just with equipment but also with the professionalism and the education of some of the medical staff. I'm also going to include customer service in general with this one. The customer service has gotten better and in the bigger cities it's great but the more rural areas could still use some changing. I heard it was so much worse in the soviet times. I am looking forward to this aspect to continue getting better and just as rapidly as everything else," explained one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"Tartu is generally a safe city, with low levels of crime compared to other cities in Estonia. Despite that, there is still some crime in Tartu, mostly in the form of petty theft. Residents report feeling somewhat safe walking around in daylight hours, but it is generally advised to exercise caution when travelling around the city at night," explained one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"Tartu is a diverse city with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. The city is known for its acceptance of differences, and people of all backgrounds are welcomed and respected. Tartu is a vibrant and open-minded city, and its citizens are proud of its diverse culture," explained one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"Tartu International School (TIS) is one of the best international schools in Tartu. It is a private, non-profit school that offers a bilingual education in English and Estonian. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and offers a range of extracurricular activities. TIS also has a strong focus on developing students’ social and emotional skills. Tartu Bilingual School (TBS) is another excellent international school in Tartu, Estonia. It is a private school that offers a bilingual education in English and Estonian. The school follows the Estonian National Curriculum and offers a range of extracurricular activities. TBS also has a strong focus on developing students’ social and emotional skills. Tartu International School of Science (TISS) is a private school that offers a bilingual education in English and Estonian. The school follows the Estonian National Curriculum and offers a range of extracurricular activities. TISS also has a strong focus on developing students’ scientific and technological skills. Tartu International School of Art (TISA) is a private school that offers a bilingual education in English and Estonian. The school follows the Estonian National Curriculum and offers a range of extracurricular activities. TISA also has a strong focus on developing students’ artistic and creative skills," remarked one expat living in Tartu with children attending .

"I lived in Tartu for several years, married my Ex Estonian wife here in the US, where we had two daughters then moved to Tartu. My work schedule on TV 7-8 hours ahead meant being up at 2-3am, and 4 satellite hops, which were expensive. A lot of what has been said is true. Tartu is really nice and quaint, changing rapidly. I remember when the first Mcdonald's went in, and it's been invaded since then with all the junk food you can imagine. I spoke extremely little Estonian, which at times was difficult. My daughters and ex are fluent in English and Estonian, so I often had a translator. I grew up in Mn and Chicago, so Estonia is cold in Winter, but I have been colder. DARK, though, is absolutely pitch black. It can be depressing. There are indoor spas and things, but the darkness can take a toll. The opposite is true in summer when it's constantly light. I mean, at midnight, the sun is up, 2 am. It bothered me more than the dark. The good news and bad news is Tartu is small. With 120k people or so and the second biggest city in Estonia, well, anyone who dislikes small-town life, it's not for you. In fact, the entire country may not be, except for a visit. I remember when Estonia joined the EU and NATO. I remember when they didn't use the Euro, it all happened pretty fast. The Estonian economy changed rapidly. Prices came in line with Western Europe. Wages didn't meet the needs. And still don't for many people. In Tartu, employment can be hard to find. Anyway, I have mixed emotions about Tartu, little too small for me, but nice," said one expat.

"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Tartu, for several reasons. They appreciate the city's rich history and beautiful architecture, which create a charming atmosphere. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an affordable option for those looking to live and work abroad. Tartu is also known for its strong educational institutions, particularly the University of Tartu, which attracts a diverse and international community. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous events, festivals, and museums to explore. Additionally, Tartu has a well-developed infrastructure, including reliable public transportation and good internet connectivity, which is essential for digital nomads. On the other hand, there are some aspects of living in Tartu that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The weather can be quite cold and dark during the winter months, which may be challenging for those accustomed to warmer climates. The language barrier can also be an issue, as Estonian is a difficult language to learn, and not everyone speaks English fluently. Some expats may find the job market to be limited, particularly for those who do not speak Estonian. Finally, while Tartu is a charming city, it is relatively small, and some may find the social and entertainment options to be limited compared to larger cities," commented one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads living in Tartu, typically have a vibrant and diverse social life. They often engage in various cultural events, such as attending concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. They also participate in language exchange programs and attend international meetups to connect with fellow expats and locals. Many of them enjoy exploring the city's rich history, visiting museums, and strolling through the picturesque Old Town. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the city's parks, rivers, and nearby forests for recreational activities. Additionally, expats, retirees, and digital nomads often frequent cafes, restaurants, and bars to socialize and network with others in the community," said one expat living in Tartu.

"The social scene in Tartu, is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of local and international influences. As a university town, Tartu has a youthful and energetic atmosphere, with students from various countries contributing to the city's cultural life. There are numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants where people can gather and socialize, as well as a thriving arts scene with galleries, theaters, and live music venues. Tartu is also known for its lively festivals and events, such as the Tartu Love Film Festival, the Tartu Student Days, and the Hanseatic Days, which bring people together to celebrate and enjoy various aspects of the city's culture. The city's parks and green spaces, such as Toome Hill and the Emajõgi River, provide a natural setting for outdoor gatherings and leisure activities. In addition, Tartu has a strong sense of community, with various clubs, societies, and organizations catering to different interests and hobbies. These groups provide opportunities for locals and visitors alike to connect and engage with like-minded individuals. Overall, the social scene in Tartu is welcoming, inclusive, and offers a wide range of activities and experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds," commented one expat living in Tartu, Estonia.

"When looking for housing in Tartu, it is important to research the area thoroughly and make sure it is safe and secure. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of public transportation and other amenities. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting and leasing. It is also helpful to ask other expats in the area for advice and recommendations. Finally, it is important to be patient and flexible when searching for housing in Tartu, as the process can take some time," wrote one expat living in Tartu.

"Medical services in Tartu are of high quality, with the city being home to the University of Tartu, which has a renowned medical faculty. The city has several well-equipped hospitals and clinics, offering a range of healthcare services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and diagnostic services. Both public and private healthcare providers are available, with most medical professionals being proficient in English. The Estonian healthcare system is based on compulsory health insurance, which covers most medical services for residents. However, visitors may need to have travel insurance or pay for services out-of-pocket. Overall, Tartu offers reliable and modern medical services to its residents and visitors," remarked one expat living in Tartu.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Tartu, can be considered relatively affordable compared to many other countries. Estonia has a national health insurance system, which covers most medical expenses for its citizens. However, private health insurance is also available for those who prefer additional coverage or faster access to certain services. The cost of healthcare services and insurance in Tartu is generally reasonable, with many residents finding it accessible and of good quality. Nevertheless, some specialized treatments or procedures might be more expensive, depending on the individual's needs and preferences," mentioned an expat living in Tartu.

"The cost of living in Tartu is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Tartu is typically around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Tartu can cost around $15 USD per person," commented one expat who moved to Tartu.

"In order to visit Tartu, visitors must obtain a visa from the Estonian Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The visa application process typically requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. In order to obtain residency in Tartu, Estonia, applicants must first obtain a temporary residence permit. This permit is typically granted for a period of up to five years and requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and proof of a valid health insurance policy. Once the temporary residence permit is granted, applicants may then apply for a permanent residence permit. This permit requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, proof of a valid health insurance policy, and proof of employment or self-employment in Estonia," said one expat living in Tartu.

"Tartu is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent quality of life, and low cost of living. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, lively nightlife, and numerous cultural events. Tartu is also home to a number of universities, making it an ideal place for expats looking to further their education. Additionally, the city is located in a picturesque setting, surrounded by forests and rivers, and offers plenty of outdoor activities for those looking to explore the great outdoors. With its friendly locals, safe environment, and excellent public transportation, Tartu is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," remarked one expat in Tartu.