Monthly living costs are a central factor when preparing for life in Germany. In European comparison, these are moderate and are composed of various areas: rent, utilities, insurance, transport, and groceries from the essential monthly expenses. The following interview shows what costs to expect in each area.
Rental costs in Germany
A large portion of income in Germany goes toward rent – typically between 35 % and 50 % of monthly expenses. The actual costs depend on location (e.g., large city or rural region), apartment size and type (studio apartment, shared apartment, accommodation with a host family), and the furnishings of the apartment.
A room in a shared apartment (WG) costs an average of around 505 euros per month in Germany. In cities with particularly tight housing markets, prices are significantly higher. In Munich, rent for a shared room currently averages 790 euro monthly (Statista). Renting entire apartments also shows strong regional differences. A 70 m² apartment currently costs an average of approximately 1,600.20 euros in Munich, 1,138 euros in Berlin, and around 625.10 euros in Bochum (North-Rhine-Westphalia) (Mietspiegel 2025). All information about rental costs and their composition can be found here.
Insurance costs
Taking out health insurance is mandatory in Germany. For certain visa types, proof of health insurance is also required, which is why it often must be obtained before entry. The amount of contributions depends on the type of insurance (statutory or private), the age of the insured person, and the selected benefits. Newcomers who do not yet have work in Germany must initially obtain private insurance. Generally, private student insurance can be taken out, with contributions currently ranging between 25 and 80 euros per month.
Once employment begins, switching to statutory health insurance is possible under certain conditions. Depending on income level and personal situation, however, remaining in private health insurance may also be advisable. With permanent employment, private insurance contributions are generally several hundred euros monthly. Contributions to statutory health insurance amount to approximately 14% of gross monthly salary, with employers and employees each covering half. More detailed information on health insurance can be found here.
Additionally, taking out private liability insurance is recommended. It provides everyday protection from financial consequences of damage and is often a requirement for renting an apartment. Costs currently generally range from 5 – 10 euros per month (as of 2025).
Transport costs
Transport costs depend on the type of transportation and frequency of use. Those using public transport pay comparatively little. A monthly ticket from Deutsche Bahn (DB) currently costs 63 euros (as of 2026) and is valid for all public transport, excluding express trains. Those using their own car, however, must expect higher costs for gasoline, insurance, and maintenance.
Grocery costs
Expenses for food and beverages in Germany are overall moderate and currently account for approximately 13.4 % of total monthly costs (as of 2025). Basic foods are available at affordable prices, and tap water can be consumed without concern, which additionally saves money. Monthly grocery costs for a single person amount to approximately 245 euros according to the Federal Statistical Office (as of 2022). Actual expenses can vary depending on location, eating habits, and shopping habits.
Other costs
Furthermore, costs for a mobile phone contract arise. Basic rates for prepaid cards often start at 5 to 10 euros per month, while contracts can be significantly more expensive depending on data volume and additional services.
Additionally, costs arise for clothing, vacation, and leisure activities. Depending on individual lifestyle, additional personal expenses may be added.
Summary
According to the Federal Statistical Office, average living costs in Germany currently amount to approximately 1,833 euros per month (as of 2022). Depending on lifestyle, location, and personal habits, actual expenses can vary. Through price-conscious shopping and use of free leisure offerings, costs for individuals can often be reduced to around 1,000 euros per month.
