Finding housing

Finding a place to live in Tartu can take time, especially at the beginning of the academic year. We recommend starting your search early and checking different options, such as student dormitories, rental apartments, hostels and short-term accommodation.

When comparing housing options, remember to check both the monthly rent and the expected utility costs. Utility costs are usually paid in addition to the advertised rent, unless agreed otherwise.

In Estonia, utility costs can be much higher in winter than in summer. Before renting, check what kind of heating the home has and ask to see previous utility bills. Homes with electric heating only may be more expensive to keep warm during the winter months.

If finding long-term accommodation from a distance feels difficult, consider booking temporary accommodation for your first days or weeks in Tartu. This gives you time to visit apartments in person, understand different neighbourhoods and make a more informed decision.

If you are coming to Tartu to study, first check whether your university offers student accommodation. Student dormitories are often the most convenient option for new students, but places may be limited, especially before the start of the academic year.

You can find information about student dormitories here:

If you do not have long-term accommodation before arriving in Tartu, you can also consider booking a furnished accommodation option for your first period in the city. Some providers offer both short-term and longer-term stays. This can give you time to settle in, visit apartments in person and make a more informed decision.

Accommodation options in Tartu include:

Rental apartments in Tartu are usually advertised through real estate portals, agencies and rental platforms. You can also find rental offers in Facebook groups, but please be careful and check that the offer is trustworthy before making any payments.

Useful websites for finding rental apartments include:

Please note that some services, such as Rendin, may require an Estonian personal identification code.

Before signing a lease contract, read these useful tips from the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs.

When contacting a real estate agent or property owner for the first time, it is useful to include:

  • your name;
  • whether you are coming to Tartu to study, work or join your family;
  • how many people will live in the apartment;
  • when you would like to move in and how long you plan to stay;
  • what kind of apartment you are looking for;
  • your preferred location, if you have one;
  • your maximum monthly budget, including expected utility costs;
  • whether you need furniture, parking or permission to keep pets.

Clear information helps the agent or owner understand your needs and may make it easier to find a suitable home.

If you are looking for accommodation options outside student dormitories, accommodation providers or real estate agencies, Facebook groups and personal contacts may also be useful.

Try getting in touch with other international students and foreign residents in Tartu. Some people may already have accommodation and may be looking for flatmates.

Useful Facebook groups include:

Facebook groups can be helpful, but please be careful before making any payments. Before paying a deposit or the first month’s rent, make sure that the offer is trustworthy and that you understand the rental conditions.

If possible, visit the apartment in person or ask someone you trust to check it for you. We recommend signing a written rental agreement and avoiding payments before you have confirmed that the apartment, landlord and terms are reliable.

Before signing a rental agreement, make sure you understand the full cost of renting and the main conditions of the contract.

Check carefully:

  • the monthly rent;
  • expected utility costs and what they include;
  • the security deposit;
  • whether you need to pay a broker’s fee;
  • the length of the contract and the notice period;
  • whether the apartment is furnished;
  • whether pets, smoking or parking are allowed;
  • whether you can register your place of residence at this address.

It is useful to ask to see previous utility bills, especially from the winter months. Heating and electricity costs can be much higher in winter than in summer.

When moving in, write down the utility meter readings and take photos of the apartment and furniture. This can help avoid misunderstandings later.

Do not sign a contract if you do not understand the terms. Ask the landlord, real estate agent or someone you trust to explain unclear parts before signing.

Before signing a lease contract, read these useful tips from the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs.

The legal rights and obligations of tenants and landlords are set out in the Law of Obligations act.

Useful to know:

  • Electrical outlets in Estonia use 230 V / 50 Hz and standard European plugs.
  • In winter, homes in Estonia must be kept warm enough even when you are away. Do not turn the heating off completely, as this may cause frozen pipes, moisture, mould or damage to the building. If you are not sure how to heat the home correctly, ask your landlord or building manager.