An Expat Guide to Choosing a Roommate in Copenhagen
TL;DR: Moving to Copenhagen as an expat? The housing market is tough, there's a language barrier, and the culture is different. This guide helps you navigate it all.
Why it's harder for expats
Copenhagen's housing shortage hits everyone, but expats face obstacles locals don't. A room in central Copenhagen typically runs 6,000–12,000 DKK/month, making shared housing a necessity for most newcomers.
Language is the first wall. Many platforms and housing groups run exclusively in Danish, quietly shutting out international residents before they've started. And even when English options exist, landlords often default to Danish-speaking tenants out of convenience.
Then there's the reference problem. Most Danish landlords want employment contracts, bank statements, and references from previous Danish landlords — documents that anyone new to the country won't have yet.
Understanding Danish roommate culture
Danish living culture has its own rhythm, and picking up on it early makes a real difference — both in finding compatible roommates and in keeping things smooth once you're living together.
Hygge in a shared home
Hygge is more than candles — it shapes how Danes view shared spaces. Common areas stay clean and welcoming, but nobody expects constant socializing.
Direct communication
Danes say what they mean. If something bothers your roommate, they'll bring it up directly. Leaning into this style will serve you well.
Essential documentation to get ready
Danish landlords and potential roommates expect certain things — showing up prepared makes a strong impression.
MitID: Denmark's national digital ID. You'll need it for most housing-related activities. Apply after receiving your CPR number (typically 2-3 weeks after arriving).
Financial docs: Employment contract or enrollment letter, bank statements from your home country, proof of income/funding, Danish bank account.
References: You won't have Danish landlord references yet — that's fine. Previous landlords from back home, an employer, or a university administrator can all provide character references.
Where to find roommates
Facebook groups
"Roommates Copenhagen" and "Copenhagen Housing for Internationals" are good starting points — they run mainly in English.
University housing services
CU, CBS and DTU all have housing services connecting students with verified landlords and roommate opportunities across the city.
Modern matching platforms
Standard listings tell you what's available — they don't tell you anything about who you'd actually be living with. That's the gap platforms like Flatmate fill.
Flatmate's profile questions cover the things that shape daily life together — sleep schedules, cleaning habits, guest policies, and how social you are at home. MitID verification is in development and is not a current profile badge.
Creating an effective roommate profile
- Clear, recent photo. Skip group shots and filters.
- Language skills. State your Danish level honestly and English fluency.
- Professional/academic status. Job title or degree gives context.
- Lifestyle preferences. Be specific about cleanliness, guests and social level.
Find your roommate in Copenhagen
Compare lifestyles and habits, and always check the person, property, and contract before paying.
Find your roommate →See the current rooms for rent in Copenhagen.