Planning to move to Germany? Discover 10 essential things you must know before living in Germany, including costs, culture, bureaucracy, accommodation, transportation, and practical tips for newcomers.
1. Understand the Cost of Living in Germany
Germany’s cost of living varies widely depending on the city and lifestyle. For example:
Big Cities
- In Germany’s largest cities (e.g., Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin), rents are highest. For example: in Munich average rents can reach around €22.82/m².
- Recent data show for a one-bedroom apartment in a major city:
- Munich: approx €1,500–€2,000/month in central areas.
- Berlin: approx €1,200–€1,500/month in central location.
- Rent increases continue: for “A-cities” the median asking rent €15.10/m² in 2024, up ~6% year-on-year.
- Big city housing market is competitive: apartment listings often go off market quickly (some within 2 days) in large cities.
Smaller Towns & Less Urban Areas
- In smaller cities or towns and eastern Germany, rents are significantly lower. For example: rent asking around €8-€12/m² for smaller towns.
- For one-bedroom apartments: in cities like Leipzig / Dresden: approx €700–€1,000/month.
- In very small towns (rural or less populated regions): you may find one-bedroom apartments for around €300–€500/month.
Shared Apartments (WG – Wohngemeinschaft)
- Shared flats remain a popular, cost-effective choice for students, young professionals, and newcomers.
- Average rent for a WG room in Germany in 2025: around €493/month.
- In major cities:
- Munich: WG room ~ €800/month.
- Berlin: WG room ~ €650/month.
- Frankfurt: WG room ~ €665/month.
- In smaller towns: some WG rooms are as low as €265/month (e.g., Chemnitz).
- Shared apartment rent includes your own bedroom plus shared kitchen/bath facilities, and usually utilities are split among residents.
Other typical monthly expenses:
- Utilities (electricity, heating, water, internet): €150 – €250
- Groceries: €200 – €400
- Transportation (public transport pass): €60 – €100
Tips for Your Budget Planning
- When you see a rental price, check whether it’s “Kaltmiete” (cold rent) or “Warmmiete” (rent + utilities). Utilities can easily add €100-€300/month.
- Shared flats (WG) are more affordable; in Berlin, the average rent for a room in 2025 was around €650/month.
- Due to rising rents and tight supply, it’s wise to save 3-6 months of living costs before moving, especially to a major city.
Websites like Numbeo can help you estimate your monthly budget based on city and lifestyle. Always plan at least 3 – 6 months of savings before moving.
2. Learn Basic German for Everyday Life
Even though English is widely spoken in Germany, knowing basic German phrases is extremely helpful.
Practical examples:
- Greeting people: “Guten Tag” (Good day), “Danke” (Thank you)
- Shopping: “Wie viel kostet das?” (How much is this?)
- Asking directions: “Wo ist die U-Bahn-Station?” (Where is the subway station?)
Useful phrases:
- Guten Tag – Good day
- Danke – Thank you
- Wie viel kostet das? – How much does this cost?
- Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen? – Could you please repeat that?
Download language apps like Duolingo or Babbel, or take an A1/A2 German course before moving. It will save you frustration with bureaucracy and help you integrate socially.
3. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
Upon arrival in Germany, you must register your address at the Bürgeramt within two weeks. This registration is necessary for:
- Opening a bank account
- Registering for health insurance
- Obtaining a tax ID number
Required documents:
- Passport or ID card
- Rental contract
- Confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
Note: Appointments can be booked online through your local city website.
4. Health Insurance is Mandatory
Germany requires all residents to have health insurance:
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. There are two main types:
- Public Health Insurance (GKV): Employees pay 17.05% of gross income, split with their employer (~8.5% each). Self-employed pay ~14 – 15% without sickness benefits or 17.05% with sickness benefits. Die Techniker
- Private Health Insurance (PKV): or freelancers or high-income earners, premiums vary based on age, health status, and coverage level.
Pro Tip: If you’re employed, your employer usually covers half the cost. Never travel without insurance, it’s illegal and can result in heavy fines.
5. Understand German Work Culture
German work culture is known for punctuality, efficiency, and professionalism.
Tips to adapt:
- Arrive on time for meetings; lateness is considered disrespectful
- Expect structured communication in emails and workplace interactions
- Separate work and personal life, weekends are usually free from work obligations
Pro Tip: If you plan to freelance, check the rules for tax registration (Steuernummer) and social contributions.
6. Rely on Efficient Public Transportation
Germany’s public transportation is reliable and covers cities, suburbs, and even small towns.
- Major cities: subways, trams, and buses
- Intercity: Deutsche Bahn trains connect most cities efficiently
- Optional car ownership: only needed in rural areas
- Biking is widely encouraged, with bike lanes in most cities
Buy a monthly transport pass to save money. Students and employees often get discounted rates. Germany boasts an efficient public transport system.
- Deutschlandticket: A nationwide monthly pass costing €58 (as of January 2025) for unlimited travel on local and regional public transport. Deutsche Bahn
Note: The price is set to increase to €63 in January 2026. DIE WELT
7. Be Prepared for Bureaucracy
Germany is known for its bureaucracy:
- Documentation: Always carry essential documents like your passport and rental contract.
- Processes: Administrative procedures can be time-consuming; patience is key.
German bureaucracy can be daunting. Expect paperwork for:
- Visa and residence permits
- Opening bank accounts
- Taxes, health insurance, and social security
Tips:
- Keep all documents organized in folders and digital copies
- Fill forms carefully and double-check details
- Appointments are often required; plan ahead
- Use official government websites for accurate information and appointments.
Story Example: Many newcomers wait weeks for a single appointment, planning in advance avoids stress.
8. Recycle and Respect Environmental Rules
Germany is environmentally conscious. Recycling rules are strict:
- Separate bins for paper, plastic, glass, and bio-waste
- Deposit system (Pfand) for bottles and cans, you get your money back when returned
- Some cities require composting for organic waste
Germany has stringent recycling regulations:
- Organic Waste (Biomüll): Starting May 1, 2025, organic waste with more than 3% contaminants may be rejected and subject to a fine of up to €2,500. inak.bio
Waste separation guidelines:
- Yellow Bin: Plastics and metals
- Blue Bin: Paper and cardboard
- Brown Bin: Organic waste
- Green Bin: Residual waste
Pro Tip: Learn your city’s rules; failing to recycle properly can lead to fines.
9. Embrace German Culture and Social Norms
Understanding cultural norms makes life easier:
- Quiet hours: 10 PM – 6 AM, avoid loud music or parties
- Formal greetings in professional settings
- Respect rules, privacy, and punctuality
Fun Fact: Germans love outdoor markets, beer gardens, and festivals. Join them to meet locals and experience authentic culture.
10. Find Accommodation and Understand Housing Rules
- Rental contracts often require 1-year minimum and 2–3 months deposit
- Popular platforms: Immobilienscout24, WG-Gesucht, eBay Kleinanzeigen
- Always inspect the apartment and read contracts carefully
- Flat-sharing (WG) is a cost-effective way to meet people if moving alone
Pro Tip: In competitive cities like Munich or Berlin, start apartment hunting at least 2 months before moving.
Conclusion
Moving to Germany can be a smooth and rewarding experience if you prepare in advance. By understanding costs, culture, bureaucracy, lifestyle, and accommodation, you’ll settle comfortably and enjoy your new life.
