Cost of Living in Germany for international Students in 2024

Germany is one of those countries where the cost of living varies greatly depending on the city in which you plan to work and live.

The cost of living in a major city like Berlin is much lower than the cost of living in Munich, a tech and startup hub.

If you are a student, family, or a couple shifting to Germany, you need to be well-prepped and ready to live in a different country.

According to the Federal Statistics Office, households on average spend €2,704 per month, with €908 going toward housing, electricity, and maintenance.

Furthermore, the average German spends €356 per month on groceries, €351 on transportation, and €284 on leisure.

The standard of living in Germany consistently ranks high in Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey, owing to the high cost of living.

Cost of living at famous German cities

Living costs in German cities differ significantly. Metropolises like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have slightly higher expenses due to popularity and economic opportunities. Smaller cities like Dresden or Nuremberg offer a budget-friendly lifestyle. Let’s look at the cost of living at the popular cities in Germany compared to some of the famous cities in the world.

Cost of living in Berlin

Berlin is Europe’s most affordable city to live in. Finding affordable housing is becoming increasingly difficult in recent years. This is especially true in central Berlin neighborhoods, whereas living costs in Berlin’s suburbs are typically lower.

Berlin’s estimated cost of living is-

• 45 percent less expensive than New York
• 33 percent less expensive than London
• 26 percent less expensive than Singapore
• 22 percent less expensive than Paris
• 15 percent more expensive than Madrid

Cost of living in Hamburg

Hamburg has a strong presence in trade, tourism, education, and health care. It is a city with numerous job opportunities in a variety of industries, such as the automotive, electrical, and chemical industries.

The estimated cost of living in Hamburg is-

• 44 percent less expensive than New York
• 32 percent less expensive than London
• 25 percent less expensive than Singapore
• 20 percent less expensive than Paris
• 18 percent more expensive than Madrid

Cost of living in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a university and scientific research city that is also popular with tourists due to its riverfront location and historic town center. Heidelberg offers a unique blend of the old and new culture and tradition!

The estimated cost of living in Heidelberg is-

• 44 percent less expensive than New York
• 31 percent less expensive than London
• 24 percent less expensive than Singapore
• 20 percent less expensive than Paris
• 18 percent more expensive than Madrid

Cost of living in Munich

The cost of living in Munich is higher than in other cities in Germany, but it’s worth it if you find a great job!

The estimated cost of living in Munich is-

• 35 percent less expensive than New York
• 22 percent less expensive than London
• 13 percent less expensive than Singapore
• 9 percent less expensive than Paris
• 35 percent more expensive than Madrid

Apartment rent as per the cost of living

The price is also affected by the city you live in and the location of your apartment. The further you are from the city center, the less expensive your apartment will be.

Keep in mind that Stuttgart, Munich, and Berlin have the highest rental prices.

According to statistics, the average monthly rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center in Germany is €736. Outside of the city center, the same one-bedroom apartment costs €552.

The average monthly rental cost for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center is as follows-

• Munich-€1,280
• Frankfurt-€1,035
• Berlin-€960
• Bremen-€690
• Leipzig-€590

Some people are used to staying in huge apartments with cheaper prices, therefore living in 1-bedroom apartments may be challenging.

Utility costs in Germany

When measured by the kilowatt-hour, Germany has the highest household energy prices in Europe. However, the average German household consumes less energy as compared to households in other European countries.

In Germany, utility bills are sent out quarterly. Numbeo estimates that the average monthly expenses in germany costs for an 85-square meter apartment, including water, gas, electricity, and waste disposal, will be around-

• Frankfurt-€279
• Munich-€257
• Cologne-€249
• Berlin-€234
• Hamburg-€233
• Düsseldorf-€217

Telecommunication costs in Germany

Depending on the package you choose, monthly internet in Germany costs around €30-€40. Service providers include a fixed landline charge. The mandatory German television and radio license is an additional cost of living in Germany.

Health insurance in Germany

Germans are big fans of insurance. They’ve got insurance for everything! But health is a major factor and needs to be your priority.

Residents of Germany are required to obtain basic German health insurance. The cost varies depending on your age, coverage, and health insurance company. Basic insurance for students costs around €110, while insurance for professionals costs between €160 and €400.

Public transportation in Germany

Public transportation is the most cost-effective option. Most German cities have excellent public transportation systems.

Saver Fare(Sparpreis) prices for one-way tickets in Germany start at €19 for short distances (up to 250 km). Prices for longer distances begin at €29 (Second Class) and rise to €49 (First Class). If you want to buy a monthly pass, it will depend on the number of zones covered.

Grocery prices in Germany

Food prices in Germany vary according to the supermarket you visit. Edeka is usually the most expensive option, while Rewe is in the middle. Aldi, Lidl, and Netto are the most affordable supermarket brands in Germany. 

14% of income is spent on food, beverages & tobacco. A single-person household will spend approximately €200 per month on groceries; a couple will spend approximately €365, and a family of four will spend approximately €520.

People can have a difficult time finding the right place until they have great jobs and salaries. The cost of living in Germany includes the apartment rent, food, electricity, outings, and so on.

To maintain the cost of living in Germany, you can choose to do better jobs or work at multiple places to earn a good amount.

Key takeaways

• Apartment rents in Germany can vary from place to place, depending on the location and facilities in the apartment.
• Health insurance is a must for the people living in Germany. The Germans consider insurance a necessity.
• If you wish to have a good standard of living, you must secure a good-paying job or work part-time at a number of places.

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Liked this blog? Read more: Top cities in Germany for work

FAQs

Q1. USA or Germany, which country can be considered economic?

Answer – The United States is 39 percent more expensive than Germany. Hence, Germany can be considered an economical option.

Q2. Which is the most sought-after job profile in Germany?

Answer – Electronic engineers and IT professionals have a high demand in Germany.

Q3. Is Germany cheap or expensive?

Answer – In general, Germany is not considered expensive, particularly when compared to the average cost of living in Europe. However, there are always exceptions. Your cost estimate will be determined by where you live and your lifestyle requirements.