Where to live as a Copenhagen Expat

If you’re thinking about where to live as an Copenhagen Expat, you’re in for a treat! The city has some fantastic neighborhoods that are super popular among expats. Here’s a rundown of the spots where many newcomers love to settle down.

Copenhagen is divided into 10 distinctive districts, each offering its own unique atmosphere and charm. These include the historic Inner City and the three well-known “bro” districts: Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Østerbro, all with their own distinct urban vibes. Further south, you’ll find Amager split into Amager East and Amager West. Other districts include Valby, known for its village-like feel, Bisbebjerg with its green spaces, Vanløse, a cozy, residential area, and Brønshøj-Husum, where urban living meets nature.

Exploring Copenhagen's Most Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

Copenhagen K - Inner City/Downtown

Copenhagen’s Inner City, known as Copenhagen K, is the historical heart of the city, with iconic landmarks, charming streets, and cultural gems.

Most of the apartment buildings in Copenhagen K are older, reflecting the city’s rich history. You’ll find a mix of both renovated and non-renovated apartments. Many of the older, non-renovated buildings may lack modern conveniences like more than one bathroom, balconies, elevators or parking, but they offer charming architectural details and a central location that’s hard to beat.

Here are some of the key areas within the district:

· Latin Quarter: A vibrant neighborhood surrounded by Nørregade (west), Vestergade (south), Vester Voldgade (east), and Nørre Voldgade (north). This area is famous for its narrow, winding streets, cozy cafes, and creative atmosphere.

· Frederiksstaden: One of the most elegant quarters of Copenhagen, home to impressive architecture, including the Amalienborg Palace and Marmorkirken (The Marble Church).

· Nyboder: A historic row of yellow townhouses that were originally built as naval barracks in the 17th century.

· Gammel Holm: This area includes Nyhavn, Kongens Nytorv, and the waterfront along Holmens Kanal and Havnegade.

· Slotsholmen: The political heart of Denmark, where you’ll find Christiansborg Palace, home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s Office.

· Nørrevold, Østervold, & Vestervold: These areas form the historic Fortification Ring, offering lush parks and green spaces like Kastellet, Copenhagen Botanical Gardens, Churchill Park, Østre Anlæg, Ørstedsparken, and the famous Tivoli Gardens.

Copenhagen Ø - Østerbro

Located just north of the city center, Østerbro is an upscale, family-oriented neighborhood. Key streets for many expats in Østerbro include Sortedams Dossering, Stockholmsgade, Strandboulevarden, and Østerbrogade. Like many neighborhoods in Copenhagen, Østerbro primarily features older apartment buildings, which add to the district’s charm and character.

Here are some highlights of this charming district:

Community Vibe: Østerbro is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal place for both young families and professionals seeking a quieter yet lively environment.
Shopping and Dining: The main street, Østerbrogade, is lined with exclusive Danish design stores, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants, offering a delightful mix of culinary and shopping experiences. The side streets also host a variety of cafes and eateries that cater to diverse tastes.
Sports and Recreation: Nearby, Parken Stadium serves as the home ground for the FC Copenhagen soccer team, making it a hub for sports enthusiasts. The excitement of live matches adds to the vibrant local culture.
Parks and Green Spaces: Fælledparken, one of Copenhagen’s largest parks, features expansive play areas and sports fields, making it a favorite destination for families and active individuals. The park is ideal for picnics, outdoor activities, and leisurely strolls.
Scenic Routes: The shores of Sortedam Lake are popular among joggers and cyclists.

Copenhagen V - Vesterbro

Vesterbro is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that beautifully balances family-friendly living with a dynamic nightlife scene. Known for its cool and authentic atmosphere, Vesterbro is a hub for those seeking a mix of culture, fashion, and culinary delights.

Expect for the Carlsberg area, Vesterbro features primarily older apartment buildings with street parking.

Here are some key highlights of this lively district:

· A Unique Vibe: Vesterbro is celebrated for its diverse character, where traditional family living coexists with trendy nightlife. T

· Fashion and Dining: The streets of Vesterbro are dotted with stylish fashion boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes.

Popular Areas:

· The Meatpacking District: Known for its industrial charm, this area has evolved into a culinary and cultural hotspot, featuring trendy eateries, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

· Humleby: A charming residential area with picturesque streets and a mix of old and new architecture, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the urban buzz.

· Carlsberg: Home to the historic Carlsberg Brewery, this area blends heritage with modern development, offering a unique glimpse into Copenhagen’s brewing history along with contemporary amenities.

· Kalvebod Brygge: A waterfront area known for its recreational opportunities, making it a perfect spot for walking, cycling, or enjoying a meal by the water.

Copenhagen N - Nørrebro

Nørrebro is a dynamic and culturally neighborhood that embodies the spirit of modern Copenhagen. Known for its vibrant street life and diverse community, Nørrebro is a popular destination for young people and families alike.

Housing in Nørrebro is very much like Vesterbro; older apartments, street parking, a lot without balconies and many apartments are not renovated – but still very charming.

Here are some highlights of this exciting area:

· Cultural Diversity: Nørrebro is celebrated for its multicultural atmosphere, where you can experience a blend of cultures, cuisines, and traditions. The neighborhood is home to a variety of international restaurants, cafes, and shops, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its residents.

· Trendy Streets: Key streets like Nørrebrogade, Elmegade, and Jægersborggade are buzzing with activity. Nørrebrogade is known for its eclectic mix of shops and eateries, while Elmegade offers a more laid-back vibe with charming cafes and boutiques. Jægersborggade is a hotspot for artisanal shops, vintage stores, and creative spaces

· Community Spirit: With its lively atmosphere, Nørrebro fosters a strong sense of community. Parks like Assistens Cemetery provide a gathering spot for locals, families, and young people. The area frequently hosts events, markets, and festivals that celebrate its cultural diversity.

A Hub for the Young: Nørrebro’s vibrant energy makes it a favorite among students and young professionals. The mix of trendy bars, live music venues, and cultural hotspots creates a lively nightlife scene, while also offering family-friendly amenities.

Copenhagen Nordvest - North West

Some areas may have an industrial or “rough” feel. Nordvest is not as popular among expats as other areas in the city. However, one of the biggest draws is the more affordable rental prices compared to the trendy “bro” districts.

Here are some highlights of this district:

· Urban Development: Nordvest is characterized by its ongoing transformation, with new residential projects, cultural spaces, and innovative architecture shaping the landscape.

· Green Spaces: One of the highlights of Nordvest is the Bispebjerg Cemetery, a beautiful and serene spot that offers lush greenery and tranquil pathways.

· A Safe Community: Despite its industrial roots, Nordvest is known for being a safe place to live. The strong sense of community and the ongoing urban development contribute to a feeling of security, making it an appealing choice for families and young professionals.

Copenhagen Nordhavn

Nordhavn is one of Copenhagen’s newly established neighborhoods, located just a stone’s throw from Østerbro. This area is a blend of modern architecture, urban living, and vibrant waterfront life.

Apartments in Nordhavn are not as spacious as the Østerbro-apartments. However, they all come with balconies, elevator, parking (parking garage) and easy access to S-trains.

Here’s what makes Nordhavn a fantastic place to call home:

· Innovative Architecture: The neighborhood features a range of modern apartments.

· Waterfront Living: The harbor area is a key highlight of Nordhavn, offering residents easy access to beautiful views and recreational activitie with the popular harbor bath.

· Active Lifestyle Amenities: For fitness enthusiasts, Nordhavn boasts a rooftop gym.

Cultural Hub: The neighborhood is home to important institutions like the CIS (Copenhagen International School) and UN City.

Copenhagen S - Amager & Ørestaden

Copenhagen S encompasses the vibrant areas of East Amager, Islands Brygge, and the modern neighborhood of Ørestaden.

In Copenhagen S, you’ll find a fun mix of old and new homes. Most of the newer rental apartments are managed by property companies, while the older places are often owned by private landlords. One of the best things about this area is that there’s usually more housing available compared to other parts of Copenhagen, giving you plenty of options to choose from.

Here’s what you need to know about Amager and Ørestaden:

· Neighborhoods: East Amager is known for its quaint, traditional homes and community spirit, while Islands Brygge features a lively waterfront with parks, cafes, and recreational areas. Ørestaden, the newest addition to this area, showcases cutting-edge architecture and innovative urban design.

· Modern Living in Ørestaden: Ørestaden is an example of modern urban development, featuring residential buildings, shopping centers, and green spaces. This area is designed for a contemporary lifestyle, with easy access to amenities and a focus on sustainability. Here you find a range of activities, from shopping at the Field’s shopping center to exploring the nearby Amager Fælled park.

Convenient Transport Links: The Metro offers a quick and efficient commute, allowing you to reach the city center in just 10-15 minutes.

Copenhagen SV

Sydhavnen, or South Harbour, is a rapidly evolving neighborhood situated just southwest of Copenhagen’s city center. Once an industrial hub marked by factories, shipyards, and warehouses, Sydhavnen has undergone a transformation in recent years.

All apartments are newly built, and most include parking. Some faces the canals and harbor front. Rental prices here are comparable to those in Copenhagen S.

· Highlights: The waterfront promenade is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling.

· Excellent Connectivity: One of the key advantages of living in Sydhavnen is its excellent transport links to the rest of Copenhagen. Residents benefit from easy access to the Metro, bus services, and S-train connections.