Cost of Living in Germany for International Students & Family
Germany is renowned for its reliable education system, cost-effective tuition costs, exceptional healthcare system, and high human growth rate. Furthermore, it is widely recognised for its innovative technology and other related areas.
Many people worldwide have moved to Germany because of its opportunities and lifestyle. Therefore, before your move, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with the average cost of living in Germany and all the anticipated expenses.
Keep reading to learn more about the cost of living in Germany.
Average Cost of Living in Germany for International Students
Germany is a popular option for international students wishing to continue their studies. What follows is a breakdown of potential expenses that international students studying in Germany can face:
Average Cost of Living in Germany for Bachelors, Couples & Families
Everyone, from singles to couples to parents, must know Germany's typical cost of living to make sound financial decisions.
Go through the following table to understand the finances better:
Cost of Living in Major Cities in Germany
The average cost of living in Germany's major cities is listed below:
Cost of Living in Berlin
The average cost of living in Berlin is as follows:
Cost of Living in Munich
The average cost of living in Munich is as follows:
Cost of Living in Frankfurt
The average cost of living in Frankfurt is as follows:
Cost of Living in Hamburg
The average cost of living in Hamburg is as follows:
Cost of Living in Cologne
The average cost of living in Cologne is as follows:
Factors Impacting the Cost of Living in Germany
Here are the many parts that make up Germany's cost of living:
1. Location
Living expenses in Germany differ significantly between locations, particularly between cities of different sizes. Housing is the biggest issue because of its high demand, although it is sometimes less expensive in small towns and suburbs.
2. Lifestyle
Lifestyle is the biggest cause of living costs. In Hamburg and Berlin, frequent dining out, gatherings, and paid facilities like movie theatres and gyms will increase costs. They can minimise costs by cooking at home and doing free or cheap things. Staying in wealthy regions of large cities is more expensive than in smaller ones.
3. Housing
Housing is the main factor driving up living expenses in Germany. Rents in cities are typically significantly higher than in rural or satellite communities. For example, a one-room flat in the heart of Munich would cost about EUR 1,200, while in smaller cities like Leipzig, the same type of property would cost even less than EUR 600.
4. Transportation
5. Food and Utilities
Germany has the highest expenditure on European food and utilities. Utility fees are the highest for electricity. Utility costs for an 85-square-metre flat range from EUR 150 to EUR 250 per month, depending on location and usage. Generally, supermarket chains affect prices. Edeka sells pricey groceries, whereas Aldi and Lidl sell them cheaply.
What is the Average Income in Germany?
In 2024, the average German worker made approximately EUR 45,000. However, that price may vary greatly depending on the area, qualifications, and branch. Salaries and other living expenses are significantly higher in Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin.
- Students- Most German students use student grants, bursaries, or part-time employment. In shared apartments or other student housing, expenses for rent, food, transportation, and other essentials range from EUR800 to EUR1,200 per month.
- Bachelors- German singles, particularly young adults living in cities, require between EUR20,000 and EUR35,000 annually to live comfortably. This money pays for transportation, food, entertainment, and rental lodging.
- Couples- City couples need to budget between EUR45,000 and EUR60,000 per year for all these expenses, including entertainment, transport, power, and housing.
- Families—The ability to make money is essential to their success. For example, a family of four in Berlin or Hamburg could need to budget between EUR 60,000 and EUR 80,000 per year for housing rent, food, transit, schooling, and utilities.
Below is a table displaying the average salary in Germany:
How Expensive is Germany Compared to Other Countries?
Germany remains one of Europe's most expensive countries. The cost of living varies drastically by city and region. Unlike smaller towns and villages, Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin are more expensive. Germany has greater living costs than 65% of countries.
Look at the table below to compare the cost of living in Germany and other countries:
Tips for Reducing the Cost of Living in Germany
If you are looking to save some money while in Germany, consider implementing the following Tips:
- Renting a flat alone is far more expensive than sharing one with someone. You can save hundreds of euros a month by looking for a single room in a house or apartment.
- Student housing is nearly always the least expensive option if you want to study in Germany. Even in some large cities, student rent is less than usual, at roughly EUR 300 monthly.
- Excellent discounts are available to students at various establishments, such as eateries, movie theatres, and clothing stores. To take advantage of this, always have your student ID with you.
- A BahnCard50 card can be purchased by students under 27 to receive savings on train and select bus travel. Additionally, you may want to look for an institution with a complimentary travel card for your semester price, which might save you as much as EUR 100 per month.
- Since Lidl and Aldi originated in Germany, the country leads the world in low-cost supermarket sales. These beloved national favourites can be found nationwide in large cities and little towns. Penny and Netto are two more excellent, inexpensive choices.
Although the average cost of living in Germany can be a little expensive, with cautious expenditure and minor adjustments, moving to Germany may be comfortable and convenient on a budget.
