Living in Riga — What to Know Before You Move

Riga surprises most people who move here. It is smaller than they expected, more beautiful than they imagined, and significantly more affordable than almost any comparable European city. But like any city, it has its own rhythms, quirks and practicalities. Here is what life in Riga is actually like.

The City in Brief

Riga is the capital of Latvia and the largest city in the Baltic states, with a population of around 600,000 in the city proper. It sits on the Daugava River, about 15 km from the Gulf of Riga. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval city centres in Northern Europe. The wider centre is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture — more than any other city in the world.

The city is compact and very walkable. Most daily needs — work, shops, restaurants, cafes, parks — are reachable on foot or by tram from any central neighbourhood.

Cost of Living in Riga

Riga is significantly cheaper than Western European capitals. A rough monthly budget for a single professional living centrally:

Category	Monthly cost (approx.)
Rent + utilities (1-bed, centre)	€450–600
Groceries	€200–350
Dining out (moderate)	€150–300
Transport (monthly pass)	€50
Phone + internet	€30–50
Entertainment / misc	€100–200
Total	€980–1,500

Transport in Riga

Riga has an extensive tram, trolleybus and bus network operated by Rīgas Satiksme. A monthly pass costs around €50 and covers unlimited travel on all routes. The Rīgas Satiksme app covers routes, real-time arrivals and contactless payment.

For the city centre and Old Town, walking is usually the fastest option. Bolt and Uber operate in Riga — rides within the centre rarely exceed €5–8.

Language

The official language is Latvian. Russian is widely spoken as a second language, particularly among the older population and in some service industries. English is well understood by most younger people and in professional settings. In restaurants, shops and tourist areas, English is universally spoken.

For daily life, you can function entirely in English in Riga. Learning a few basic Latvian phrases is always appreciated but not required.

Weather and Seasons

Riga has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (November–March) are cold and grey — temperatures regularly drop below 0°C and snow is common. Summers (June–August) are warm and pleasant, with long daylight hours. Spring and autumn are mild but unpredictable.

Healthcare

Latvia has a public healthcare system, but quality varies. EU citizens with a valid EHIC card are entitled to emergency care. For regular healthcare, most expats use private clinics — a GP consultation typically costs €30–60. Private health insurance from providers like BUPA or Cigna is worth considering for longer stays.

What Surprises Most Newcomers

• The quality of cafes and restaurants — Riga's food scene is significantly better than its international reputation suggests. Excellent coffee, creative cuisine, reasonable prices.
• The darkness in winter — in December, Riga gets only about 6 hours of daylight. Many newcomers underestimate this. Good lighting in your apartment matters.
• How quickly you can settle in — Riga is a city that rewards exploration. Most people feel at home within a few weeks.
• The internet speed — Latvia consistently ranks among the top countries in Europe for internet speed. Fibre is widespread and affordable.
• The architecture — even long-term residents never quite get used to the Art Nouveau buildings on Alberta iela or the medieval towers of the Old Town.