As most international students find themselves in Riga, these costs will reflect the cost of living in the capital. Some average costs (in EUR and USD) are:
- Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): €430 ($500)
- Utilities (monthly average): €160 ($185)
- Monthly public transport pass: €50 ($60)
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): €8 ($9.50)
- Coffee: €2.60 ($3)
- Milk (1 liter): €0.90 ($1.10)
- Vegetables (1kg): €1.50 ($1.75)
- Eggs (dozen): €1.95 ($2.30)
- Water (1.5 liter): €0.60 ($0.70) *
- Chicken (1kg): €5.40 ($6.30)
- Wine (bottle): €7 ($8.20)
- Bread (loaf): €0.85 ($1)
* This reflects the cost of bottled water. You’ll need to factor this in as it’s not safe to drink the tap water in Latvia.
In Latvia, rent is normally counted as a cost separate from living expenses. This means that the average cost of living for one person is roughly €620 ($725) per month.
Healthcare in Latvia is universal, but is hindered by long waiting times and poorer access to the latest medicines and treatments. That being said, it’s only available to Latvian and EU citizens and residents. That’s why you need health insurance when you apply for your student visa. State healthcare is only available in the event of emergencies.
Many students like to supplement their income with a part-time job. But, unless you speak good Latvian, it can be difficult to find work. However, some international students whose first languages are global languages, like English, French and Spanish, do find side work as language tutors.
