Germany is renowned for its high-quality education, job opportunities, and overall quality of life, making it a popular choice for those seeking a new home in Europe. Whether you are planning to move to Germany for work, studies, or a long-term stay, there are many aspects to consider to prepare for life in this dynamic country. In this guide, we will thoroughly explore living conditions, cost of living in major German cities, the education and healthcare systems, and much more. Let this guide be your detailed roadmap to life in Germany.
Germany’s Living Standards
Germany ranks high on several global quality-of-life indices, reflecting its impressive living standards. The United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) ranks Germany as 6th out of 189 countries, demonstrating its leading position in terms of quality of life and human development. The index takes into account various factors, such as life expectancy, education, and income per capita. Germany’s position in this ranking shows that it is among the best countries globally for overall quality of living.
Similarly, Germany also ranks highly on the World Happiness Index, placing 17th among 153 countries. This ranking measures well-being based on criteria such as gross domestic product per capita, social support, life choices, and freedom. Germany’s strong position in these rankings is further supported by its membership in the European Union, where the currency used is the Euro (EUR).
Cost of Living in Germany
If you plan on living in Germany, having a clear understanding of your potential expenses is crucial. Cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city in which you reside. Below, we cover some of the most important expenses you need to consider.
Key Living Expenses in Germany
- Housing Costs: Rent, deposits, and utilities such as electricity, water, and internet.
- Transportation: Public transportation (bus, subway, tram), bicycle, or personal vehicle expenses.
- Utility Bills: Electricity, water, heating, and other services.
- Food and Groceries: Groceries from supermarkets and dining at restaurants.
- Household Necessities: Cleaning supplies, furniture, and basic home items.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance of your home.
- Personal Care: Costs associated with beauty services such as salons and barbershops.
- Clothing and Footwear: Monthly spending on clothes and shoes.
- Entertainment and Social Activities: Leisure activities like cinemas, theaters, museums, and more.
Research firms regularly publish reports comparing the living costs of various cities around the world. According to Mercer’s global cost of living report, which covers 209 cities, Munich ranks 72nd globally, followed by Frankfurt in 76th place and Berlin in 82nd.
The following table shows a cost comparison of different cities in Germany:
| Living Costs | Monthly Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center | Dinner for Two at a Mid-Range Restaurant | Monthly Transportation Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul, Turkey | 2,954.55 TRY | 200.00 TRY | 275.00 TRY |
| Berlin, Germany | 963.80 EUR | 50.00 EUR | 82.00 EUR |
| Munich, Germany | 1,295.45 EUR | 60.00 EUR | 57.00 EUR |
| Frankfurt, Germany | 1,030.74 EUR | 50.00 EUR | 91.80 EUR |
| Hamburg, Germany | 944.08 EUR | 55.00 EUR | 90.00 EUR |
| Cologne, Germany | 828.00 EUR | 60.00 EUR | 98.50 EUR |
Key German Cities to Live In
Germany is home to numerous important cities, each offering a distinct blend of culture, employment opportunities, and quality of life. Here are some of the standout cities in Germany:
- Berlin: As the capital and largest city, Berlin is a cultural hub that boasts a population of over 3.5 million. Berlin’s economy is largely service-driven, and the city is well-known for its cultural diversity, rich history, and vibrant arts scene.
- Hamburg: The second-largest city in Germany, Hamburg is a significant tourist destination, known for its vibrant harbor and impressive number of bridges. The city has a bustling economy centered on trade and logistics.
- Munich: Located in the south of Germany, Munich is famous for events like Oktoberfest and its high quality of life. It has a high population density and a strong local economy driven by manufacturing and technology.
- Cologne: Situated near the Belgian and Dutch borders, Cologne is famous for its cultural heritage, notably the Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany’s most visited landmarks.
Average Monthly Expenses in Major German Cities
The cost of living in Germany’s major cities can vary depending on location. Below are estimates for monthly expenses in different cities:
Berlin Monthly Expenses
- Individual (excluding rent): 813.13 EUR
- Family of four (excluding rent): 2,797.84 EUR
- Utility bills for 85 m² apartment: 231.00 EUR
Hamburg Monthly Expenses
- Individual (excluding rent): 838.35 EUR
- Family of four (excluding rent): 2,900.10 EUR
- Utility bills for 85 m² apartment: 232.80 EUR
Munich Monthly Expenses
- Individual (excluding rent): 887.06 EUR
- Family of four (excluding rent): 3,050.83 EUR
- Utility bills for 85 m² apartment: 260.02 EUR
Cologne Monthly Expenses
- Individual (excluding rent): 852.36 EUR
- Family of four (excluding rent): 2,934.74 EUR
- Utility bills for 85 m² apartment: 248.57 EUR
Note: These figures are based on data from numbeo.com and were last updated on September 13, 2021.
Rental Prices in Germany
Rental costs can vary significantly depending on the city. Here are the average rental prices for different apartment sizes in Berlin:
| Berlin Rental Prices | Monthly Average Rent |
| Large Apartment | 1,272 EUR |
| Medium Apartment | 1,018 EUR |
| Small Apartment | 721 EUR |
For more detailed information on renting an apartment in Germany, see our guide on Renting a Home in Germany.
Grocery Costs in Germany
Groceries are an essential part of living expenses in Germany. Here are the average prices for some basic items:
| Item | Average Price |
| Full-fat milk (1L) | 0.88 EUR |
| Bread (1 loaf) | 1.32 EUR |
| Rice (1 kg) | 1.93 EUR |
| Eggs (12-pack) | 2.28 EUR |
| Cheese (1 kg) | 9.31 EUR |
| Red Meat (1 kg) | 10.36 EUR |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | 1.30 EUR |
| Onions (1 kg) | 1.28 EUR |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 1.00 EUR |
| Chicken Fillet (1 kg) | 6.87 EUR |
| Water (1.5L bottle) | 0.41 EUR |
These prices are based on data collected on September 13, 2021, from numbeo.com.
Life in Germany: Living Standards and Quality of Life
Germany is known for its high living standards, especially in its major cities. According to Teleport, a company that evaluates quality of life in cities around the world, the living conditions in Berlin are as follows:
- Berlin is a multicultural city that welcomes people from all over the world.
- The city has an area nine times larger than Paris, yet its extensive public transport network makes getting around easy.
- Berlin ranks 22nd on the list of best cities to live in worldwide.
- The cost of living in Berlin ranks 141st out of 248 cities, while salaries are ranked 104th among 265 cities.
While Berlin offers many advantages, there are areas for improvement, such as:
- Expanding the use of English in public offices.
- Improving income tax regulations in the city.
- Keeping streets and public areas cleaner.
- Upgrading airport infrastructure.
These improvements have been suggested by residents and could make Berlin an even more attractive place to live.
Healthcare System in Germany
Germany offers a comprehensive healthcare system that combines public and private insurance options to cover the entire population. There are two main types of health insurance:
- Public Health Insurance (Statutory Health Insurance): Available to German citizens and residents.
- Private Health Insurance: Necessary for visitors without residency permits.
Temporary visitors must cover their own healthcare costs if they require medical services. Germany ranks 12th among 35 EU countries on the Euro Health Consumer Index, demonstrating its well-developed healthcare system.
Education System in Germany
Germany has a robust education system that begins with mandatory schooling at age 6 and continues until age 18. There is optional pre-school education for children aged 0-6 years. Primary school covers ages 6-9, followed by secondary school for ages 10-18/19, during which students can pursue either academic or vocational paths.
Higher education in Germany is well-regarded globally, and studying at German universities is largely tuition-free, with students only required to pay administrative fees. Prestigious institutions such as the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and Heidelberg University attract students from around the world.
For more detailed information on studying in Germany, check out our guide on Studying at Universities in Germany.
Conclusion: Living in Germany
Germany offers many advantages, including a high standard of living, a strong education system, and a well-functioning healthcare system. However, living costs can be high, particularly in larger cities, and the climate may be challenging for some individuals. If you plan to live in Germany, it is crucial to budget accordingly, choose your city wisely, and be well-informed about administrative processes.
For those considering working, studying, or moving to Germany, the insights shared in this comprehensive guide can help you make an informed decision. Remember, preparation and understanding your new home are key to a successful transition. If you want to explore further, consider reading our related articles on Finding Jobs in Germany or Navigating German Bureaucracy.