Germany is among the top host countries for international students, where they receive a high-quality education and enjoy a blend of cultures. The country’s top-renowned universities and cheap fees bring in students from all over the world.
There is also a good chance of getting a job in the country after completing education, which further enhances the quality of life in Germany. Basic living and cost of studying in Germany for international students includes food, transport, leisure, and more.
Cost of living in Germany for Indian students is divided into the following commodities:
Item | Average Price (€) |
Milk (regular, 1 liter) | 1.10 € |
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 1.91 € |
Rice (white, 1kg) | 2.93 € |
Eggs (regular, 12 pieces) | 3.22 € |
Water (1.5-liter bottle) | 0.83 € |
Gasoline (1 liter) | 1.74 € |
Public Transport (Monthly Pass) | 49.00 € |
Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) | 302.19 € |
Type of Apartment | Average Rent (€) | Price Range (€) |
1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | 879.53 | 585.00 – 1,500.00 |
1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Centre) | 674.31 | 450.00 – 1,164.10 |
3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | 1,673.66 | 1,100.00 – 2,841.28 |
3-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Centre) | 1,272.98 | Not specified |
Whether on the way to a university, work or even a social gathering, Germany is made simple with an efficient transport system. You will also have different transportation expenses depending on your preferred mode of travel and distance of travel.
Here is what public transportation in Germany looks like in terms of cost:
One way to assess the cost of living across Germany is by examining the largest cities in key metropolitan areas:
These cities are among the most expensive places to live or study in Germany due to their strong economies, high demand for housing, and vibrant urban lifestyles.
Here’s a simplified table highlighting the average monthly living costs for international students in various German cities:
City | Region | Average Monthly Living Cost (€) | Notes |
Munich | South (Bavaria) | ~1,200 | Highest living costs; rent and dining are particularly expensive. |
Stuttgart | South (Baden-Württemberg) | ~1,100 | High rent prices; strong economy attracts many students. |
Frankfurt | Central (Hesse) | ~1,100 | Financial hub; higher accommodation costs. |
Hamburg | North | ~1,000 | Major port city; diverse cultural scene. |
Berlin | East | ~1,000 | Capital city; living costs have risen but still moderate. |
Leipzig | East (Saxony) | ~850 | More affordable; growing student population. |
Halle (Saale) | East (Saxony-Anhalt) | ~800 | One of the cheapest cities for students. |
Magdeburg | East (Saxony-Anhalt) | ~800 | Lower rent prices; quieter student life. |
Expense/City | Munich (€) | Berlin (€) | Cologne (€) | Hamburg (€) | Frankfurt (€) |
Rent (1-bedroom, city center) | 1,446 | 1,220 | 1,027 | 1,097 | 1,283 |
Rent (1-bedroom, outside city center) | 1,213 | 881 | 791 | 785 | 939 |
Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | 80 | 70 | 65 | 80 | 80 |
Meal for one (cheap restaurant) | 17 | 15 | 13 | 15.40 | 18 |
Grocery bill (average cost per item) | 34.34 | 34.34 | 38.35 | 37.02 | 37.02 |
Utilities (85m² apartment) | 334.07 | 322.57 | 379.65 | 320.48 | 329.70 |
Munich and Frankfurt may be on the higher end of the expense scale, but for the most part, the cost of living in Germany is not as high as it is in most Western European nations.
Some of the significant expenditures include rent, groceries, health insurance, transport, and leisure.
In some cases, utilities are included in the rent, but checking your lease agreement is always wise. If not stated, extras like electricity, heat, and internet will have to be paid separately.
The costs of living in eastern German cities, as well as in the countryside and small towns, are lower.
Foods are priced fairly in Germany. Discount grocery stores make available low-priced groceries.
Specific stipulations are referencing medical insurance in Germany. It depends on who is providing it and the scope of medical services.