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24 Oct. 2022

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Cost of living in Germany: monthly expenses, food prices, gasoline, apartment rent

Cost of living
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Cost of living in Germany: monthly expenses, food prices, gasoline, apartment rent

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Germany is one of the leading countries of the European Union. The state can guarantee a high standard of living not only for citizens, but also for expats and migrants. For temporary or permanent relocation, Germany is most often chosen for its well-developed infrastructure, high-quality medical care, rich culture and stability. However, the cost of living in Germany is generally higher than the EU average.


The following monthly budget is based on the cost of living calculation for two adults. On average, monthly expenses will be 2700-2900€.


Housing rent and cost of utilities in Germany


You will spend most of the budget on housing rent. In recent years, the cost of renting real estate in Germany has been increasing rapidly. The fastest growth is observed in Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Stuttgart and Berlin. The capital even introduced rent control measures to prevent further increases in housing costs.


A one-room apartment in the suburbs of Munich will cost €1,400, in Heidelberg – €1,000, in small towns and villages you can find it for €600-800.


When looking for housing, pay special attention to the description. After all, in Germany it is quite popular to rent apartments without furniture, kitchen, sink, household appliances and even lamps. Furnishing a new home can become an additional large expense item.


Also, when planning a moving estimate, you should take into account preliminary expenses - security deposits, prepayment of rent and possible commission fees to a real estate agent. The amount can vary, on average from one to three monthly rents.


The cost of utilities is about €200 (electricity, water, gas, garbage removal). Housekeeping (cleaning twice a month for 3 hours) – 100€.


Cost of food products

 

Food prices in Germany are lower than in most EU countries. There are many supermarkets and farmers' markets in the state. About €550 per month will be needed to buy food, including the purchase of wine and beer. Tobacco products are very expensive in Germany, a pack of cigarettes costs from €5. Supermarkets in Germany often have shelves with products whose expiration date will soon expire. By buying food there, you can save up to 30% of the cost.


In Germany, the food system is well-developed - from fast food establishments to fine restaurants, for every taste and budget. Entertainment will cost you €250 per month - dinner once a week in a restaurant and a movie twice a month.


Internet package, subscription fee for mobile phone and TV - 100 €.


The cost of health insurance depends on age, existing chronic diseases and the amount of the deductible, approximately from €100 per month.


Transportation and gasoline costs


The transport system of Germany is developed at a fairly high level. Public transport is represented by buses, trams and metro. The cost of a single ticket in public transport is €2.75, a monthly pass is €68. Trains run between the cities, including high-speed, as well as intercity buses.


If you came by car, the costs of its maintenance per month will be on average 200€: fuel fee per 1000 km and parking fee. The cost of 1 liter of gasoline in the country is 1.8-2.2 euros.


It is also worth considering additional costs, approximately €200.


If you have decided to move to Germany, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the main features and rules of life in the country, as well as for what you can receive a fine of up to 5,000 euros in the country.


In connection with the increase in the incidence of COVID-19, the German authorities introduced new quarantine restrictions from October 1, 2022.

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