If you are considering relocating to or attending school in Germany, you should be fully aware of the expense of living there. Calculating the average monthly cost, which will cover costs for things like rent, utilities, food, transportation, and health insurance, is a part of preparing for this exciting relocation. The good news is that, given the high standard of living in the nation, Germans may enjoy a comparatively inexpensive cost of living.
Despite the fact that Germany is one of the most developed/richest countries in the world, it is not the most expensive country – studying in Germany is therefore more affordable and convenient. Furthermore, it is rich in culture, history, beautiful nature, extracurricular activities, top universities, and lecturers who provide exceptionally useful skills and knowledge. In terms of public transportation, a monthly ticket payment is included in the semester payment, which is symbolic in any case!
In general, Germany is not considered expensive, particularly when compared to the average cost of living in Europe; however, there are always exceptions, and what your budget must be will depend on where you are and your lifestyle requirements. Anyone looking for a self-contained apartment in Munich’s center will see their budget depleted faster than someone looking for a flat-share in Berlin.
The phrase “cost of living” is derived from economics and refers to the daily expenses of private homes. Simply said, the cost of living is the sum of all your spending on necessities. What exactly is included in the cost of living? Your home, food, toiletries, internet service, as well as your hobbies and your participation in sports, are just a few examples. Although not technically speaking a part of the cost of living, insurance plans and social security deductions, such as your pension or personal liability insurance, are still essential to factor into your household budget.
In Germany, it would be difficult to live on less than €1,000 per month, and this figure rises to around €1,500 – €2,000 in larger cities. Students can usually cover their living expenses for about €850 per month. Travel is reasonably priced, even in major cities, and food and drink prices are in line with the rest of Europe. Health insurance costs are an essential consideration for anyone moving to Germany. People have varied wants and different consumer behaviors, which should go without saying. You’ll spend more money on food if you only shop at organic supermarkets. Similar to how those who cycle or take public transportation save money compared to those who drive. In addition, if you have a family, you will need to pay for things like clothes, toys, and perhaps even kindergarten fees.
The most significant expenses that go towards the cost of living in Germany are included in the following table:
Housing | Rent/ mortgage, Electricity, ancillary costs, household appliances, etc. | Monthly average:
€923 |
Health and toiletries | Toiletries and services
|
Monthly average:
€107 |
Transportation | Public transport, shared mobility, car, bike, etc. | Monthly average:
€266 |
Clothing | Clothing | Monthly average:
€93 |
Leisure & Culture | Cinema, theater, books, gym, sports clubs, travel, courses, etc. | Monthly average:
€239 |
Communication | License fee, cellphone plan, internet, etc. | Monthly average:
€67 |
Food & Drink | Food, alcohol/tobacco, drinks, etc. | Monthly average:
€378 |
Let us look at the top 5 most expensive cities in Germany-
Is Germany’s capital not the most costly location to live in? I guess not quite. But renters in Munich still fork down a hefty 27.1 per cent of their income. At €12,98 per square meter, rent is currently among the highest in the nation. Additionally, the astonishing price of real estate (€4,316 per square meter) is more than twice as much as in Berlin, the capital. To keep prices down, students moving to Munich should always try to find student housing. Since these spots are in high demand, it is better to do this as long in advance as you can.
Germany’s fifth-largest state is Frankfurt am Main. As the financial capital of Germany and one of the most significant financial centers in the world, it is the most metropolis-like city in Germany and a hub for business fairs. Numerous students from all over the world attend Frankfurt’s renowned universities!
Frankfurt is second only to Munich in terms of the cost of living among German cities. You’ll pay about €900 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. Fortunately, there are a few methods to live in Frankfurt for less; one of these is to have after-work beverages at a farmers market rather than a pub, which is generally less expensive.
It is not surprising to see the glittering harbor city of northern Germany on this list. The Hanseatic city traders state’s pay rent equal to 21.9% of their after-tax income. And if you’re considering purchasing real estate there, it will cost you €2,810 per square meter, ranking it as the third most expensive property in the nation.
The largest city in Germany by area, Hamburg is ideal for studying because it is bordered by water. Although it is not the most affordable city in Germany, it is nonetheless quite appealing, especially for its renowned and esteemed colleges!
Due to its vibrant fashion industry and cultural scene, Düsseldorf is dubbed the “fashion capital”! All around the city, art is highly valued and vital. Ad agencies have also moved to Düsseldorf, which is now the second banking hub behind Frankfurt. However, the average cost of living in Düsseldorf is $1445 for a bachelor on his or her own, $1860 for a family, and $1295 for students.
According to data from our users on the cost of living website calculator, rental costs for a family of three and a couple are $1500 per month, while they are $1295 for international students and $1200 for a single person. The cost of living in Düsseldorf varies substantially depending on where you reside; a typical apartment or house costs $1300 per month to rent.
You might be in for a shock if you can make out what the estate agent in Baden Württemberg’s capital is saying. Stuttgart pays on average 21.5 percent of their income on rent, making it one of the most expensive rental markets in the nation (€10,04 per square meter), yet they also make a respectable living.
Stuttgart is the place to be if you enjoy the outdoors. Many students prefer studying in Stuttgart because of its excellent educational system and wonderful lifestyle. Students that attend school in Stuttgart have a lot of fun snowboarding, skiing, and hiking. It’s safe to assume that if you are a foreign student studying in Stuttgart, Germany, you will undoubtedly have some of the most memorable moments of your life.
Munich | €19.64 per m2 |
Frankfurt am Main | €16.49 per m2 |
Berlin | €15.69 per m2
|
Stuttgart | €15.31 per m2 |
Freiburg | €14.88 per m2 |
Dusseldorf | €14.20 per m2 |
Mainz | €14.17 per m2 |
Heidelberg | €14.14 per m2 |
Hamburg | €14.04 per m2 |
Darmstadt | €13.84 per m2 |
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Book your Free Counselling Session now!The cost of living in the US is 39% higher than in Germany. Germany is therefore a viable alternative from a financial standpoint.
Taxes must be paid by all foreign nationals based on their income.
Depending on where you live and the kind of housing you have, the rent can change. However, Germany should budget between 300 and 700 euros for rent.
In Germany, the rich live in Hamburg. Hamburg has the highest density of millionaires.
Munich is the most expensive city in Germany. So, they have the highest rent for newly built apartments.