How to Save Money in Tallinn Guide
Living in Tallinn is amazing, but according to a recent report by the Estonian Institute of Economic Research, Estonia is on track to become one of the five most expensive countries in Europe, so unless you have so much money that you don’t care about spending them, we need to do something about it.
Whether you’re a local or just moved here, almost everyone likes saving a bit of extra cash.
The good news is, there are plenty of smart ways to cut down your expenses without missing out on what this city has to offer, but some tricks might be hidden, and some you might have not discovered yet.
In this post, I’ll share some practical tips – from free transport to budget-friendly shopping – that’ll help you stretch your euros a little further. Let’s dive in!
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AI generated image. Prompt: 'Generate an image about saving money in Tallinn Estonia'
1. Transports
This was an ‘of course’ one, but we couldn’t miss it. Public transportation in Tallinn is a great way to save money, especially for residents of the city. For example, we personally don’t own any car, if we need it for some reason, we use Bolt/Citybee. Since 2013, public transport, including buses, trolleys, and trams, has been free for registered residents of Tallinn. Here’s why and how it works:
Why Public Transport is Free
Tallinn was one of the first capitals in the world to offer free public transportation to its residents. This initiative was introduced to encourage the use of public transport over private vehicles, reduce traffic congestion, and promote more environmentally-friendly travel. For residents, it’s a huge cost-saving benefit.
When It’s Free
To enjoy free transport, you need to be a registered resident of Tallinn and have an ID card. Once registered you need to create your green card and link it to your id, allowing you to travel for free within city limits. For visitors and non-residents, standard fares still apply.
How to Check Timetables and Routes
Tallinn’s public transport system is well-organized and easy to navigate. You can check schedules, routes, and live updates through the following options:
Tallinn Transport Website: The Tallinn Transport website provides detailed timetables and maps for all routes.
Mobile Apps: Apps like “Google Maps” offer real-time route and schedule information.
On-Site Information: Major bus stops and tram stations have screens showing real-time arrival information.
With a reliable and efficient public transport system that’s free for residents, Tallinn’s policy makes it easy to save money while getting around the city.
2. Supermarket Loyalty Cards
Supermarket loyalty cards are a simple but effective way to save money on your grocery shopping in Tallinn.
Stores like Rimi, Selver, Prisma, and Maxima offer cards that give you discounts, special offers, and points that can be turned into store credit.
Signing up is free, and it’s worth checking each store’s app or website for deals that match your shopping habits.
You can also get exclusive promotions, like discounts on your favorite brands or money off your next purchase. It’s a small step, but the savings add up quickly, especially on your regular groceries.
For example Rimi and Maxima offer a 1% cash back, plus multiple offers for members only.
One day Maxima offered a 10% cash back as campaign for a day only and yes, as it’s the closest grocery store to our apartment we filled up a whole shopping cart.
If you spend 250€ per month, in a year you can save 30€, I agree, it’s not much, but put inside all the offers you get only with the member card (the famous kliendikaart), you can easily get to 200€ per year saved.
3. Monitor Energy Prices
Keeping an eye on energy prices in Tallinn can make a big difference to your monthly bills.
Estonia’s energy market website lets you see today’s and even tomorrow’s electricity prices, which vary by the hour.
There are times when prices drop so low that they can even hit zero, especially during certain hours of the day.
By planning energy-heavy tasks, like doing laundry or running the dishwasher, during these low-price periods, you can save a lot over time.
Apps and websites provide real-time updates, making it easy to check when electricity is cheapest and adjust your routine accordingly.
Click here to see this website to see tomorrow’s/today’s price.
But, you might have a fixed electricity package, and in that case this is not for you, so make sure to check number 4.
4. Check your electricity contract
If you own your own apartment/house in Tallinn, it’s smart to regularly review your electricity package to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Many providers offer different plans, including ones that have lower rates for night-time usage for example.
So if you tend to spend more energy during the day, it might be wiser for you to make a plan that even out the price difference between day and night, as the day is usually more expensive than night prices. Oppositely, you can make a plan where you spend less during the night.
Or maybe, sometime ago you did a fixed price package but the fixed price is much higher than actual prices.
Sometimes, switching to a new plan or adjusting your usage habits can lead to significant savings.
Compare your current package with other options available, and see if a new plan might offer better rates or more benefits tailored to your energy habits.
We’re in the land of digital services, switching plan will be a matter of a couple of clicks.
Keeping an eye on these details ensures you’re not missing out on potential savings.
5. Second-Hand Shopping
Second-hand shopping in Tallinn is a fantastic way to save money and find unique items.
The city have several great spots for thrift lovers.
Humana is a popular chain with multiple locations offering everything from clothes to furniture at bargain prices.
Uuskasutuskeskus is another excellent choice, specializing in second-hand goods and upcycling, where you can find everything from household items to books.
Additionally, the online marketplace Osta.ee features a wide range of pre-owned items, allowing you to browse and bid on everything from electronics to vintage collectibles from the comfort of your home.
These options not only help you save money but also support sustainable shopping practices.
Take this as a reminder to also donate the item you don’t use anymore, and have a look at this article to find more information about great thrift shops.
6. Cut Costs
We know, this is another point that you might see as obvious, but we still wanted to add it.
Cutting down on small, everyday expenses can lead to surprising savings over time.
For instance, if you grab a coffee from a café each morning for around €3, that’s €15 a week or €60 a month.
Over a year, it adds up to €720! The same principle applies to ordering food.
If you order takeout or delivery a couple of times a week at an average cost of €15 per meal, you’re looking at €120 a month or €1,440 a year.
By brewing your coffee at home and cooking meals yourself, you can easily trim hundreds of euros from your yearly budget.
Small changes in your daily spending can have a big impact on your finances, leaving you with more money for the things you truly enjoy.
7. Save on Taxes (legally)
Saving money on taxes in Estonia can be effectively managed by investing in the third pension pillar or increasing your contributions to the second pillar.
Contributions to the third pillar are tax-deductible, meaning you can reduce your taxable income and lower your tax bill while also saving for your future (For example, if you save EUR 100 per month, you will save EUR 264 per year in taxes).
Additionally, boosting your contributions to the second pillar not only increases your retirement savings but can also provide some immediate tax benefits, as higher contributions can reduce your taxable income. By leveraging these options, you can not only save on taxes but also secure a more comfortable financial future.
(This is not a financial advice)
8. Sell What You Don’t Use
Selling items you no longer use, like old phones or gadgets, is a great way to declutter and make some extra cash.
Tallinn has several platforms where you can easily list and sell your items.
Facebook Marketplace is a popular option for local sales, allowing you to reach buyers in your area quickly.
Yaga.ee is another excellent platform, specifically designed for selling second-hand goods with a focus on ease and security.
Additionally, sites like Osta.ee offer auction-style listings for a wide range of items.
By turning unused belongings into cash, you not only free up space but also boost your budget with minimal effort.
9. Choosing the Right Area and Apartment to Save on Living Costs
Living in Tallinn’s more affordable neighborhoods can significantly reduce your overall expenses, especially when it comes to rent.
Opting for a well-located apartment that isn’t in a pricey area allows you to save on housing costs while still enjoying the city’s amenities.
Additionally, focusing on newer or recently renovated apartments can help manage your energy bills more effectively. In Estonia, where winters are long and heating is essential, an energy-efficient apartment can make a big difference.
Look for properties with modern insulation and efficient heating systems, as these can help you keep your heating costs down.
By choosing a reasonably priced area and a well-maintained apartment, you’ll not only save on rent but also on your monthly utility expenses, making your living situation both economical and comfortable.
What are the most expensive areas? Click here to find out in our blog post.
Saving money in Tallinn can be simpler than you think! By using public transport, making the most of supermarket loyalty cards, and selling things you no longer need, you can keep more of your hard-earned cash. Watch your energy prices, pick a more affordable neighborhood, and choose an energy-efficient apartment to keep those heating costs down. Little changes in how you spend and manage your money can add up to big savings. Try these tips to save up to thousands a year and enjoy life in Tallinn without stretching your budget too thin!
