At a Glance
Cost of Living
moderate
Safety
very high
English Level
moderate
Climate
Temperate continental with cold winters, warm summers
Essentials
Cost of Living
Germany offers moderate costs compared to other Western European countries. Rent varies dramatically by city: Munich most expensive (€1,500+), Berlin mid-range (€1,231), smaller cities much cheaper (€700-900). Overall monthly budget: €1,600-2,500.
Healthcare
Germany has one of the world's best healthcare systems. Universal coverage mandatory. Two options: public (Gesetzliche, 90% of people) or private (Private, for high earners). Public costs €400-800/month (employer pays half), covers everything including family.
Banking
German banking is efficient but traditional. Opening account requires residence registration (Anmeldung). No credit scores like US - SCHUFA tracks payment history. Many Germans still prefer cash. Online banking excellent with N26, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank.
Housing
Competitive rental market, especially in major cities. Apartments typically unfurnished (no kitchen!). Requires SCHUFA, proof of income (3x rent), 2-3 month deposit. Search on ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht. Expect 1-3 month search.
Lifestyle
Language
German is essential for full integration and daily life. English works in Berlin tech scene and major cities, but bureaucracy requires German. Integration courses (Integrationskurs) available for visa holders. B1-C1 needed for citizenship.
Working Remotely
Germany has excellent infrastructure for remote work. Major cities have strong coworking scenes. Internet quality is very good (100-1000 Mbps available). Work visas allow remote work but must be for German employer or approved business.
Transportation
Germany has one of the world's best public transportation systems. €49 Deutschland-Ticket provides unlimited nationwide transit. Extensive train network (DB), excellent urban transport. Cycling infrastructure strong. Car useful but not essential in cities.
Community & Social Life
Germany has large expat communities in major cities. Germans can be reserved initially but loyal friends long-term. Join Verein (clubs) for interests. Active Meetup scene. Integration takes effort but pays off.
Food & Dining
German cuisine features bread, sausages, pork, and potatoes. International food excellent in cities. Grocery shopping affordable. Restaurants expect 5-10% tip. Sunday brunch popular. Beer and wine central to culture.
More Topics
Taxes
Progressive income tax 0-45% (top rate at €277,826). Church tax optional. Social contributions add ~20% (pension, health, unemployment). Tax year is calendar year, filing deadline July 31. Tax advisor (Steuerberater) highly recommended for expats.
Safety
Germany is one of the safest countries in the world. Low crime rates, excellent emergency services, strong rule of law. Most areas safe day and night. Petty theft in tourist areas. Emergency number: 112.
Culture & Lifestyle
German culture values punctuality, directness, rules, and efficiency. Strong work-life balance with 25-30 vacation days. Sunday is sacred (stores closed). Regional differences significant. Christmas markets, beer gardens, and festivals central to social life.
Climate & Weather
Temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Cold, gray winters (0-5°C, occasional snow). Warm summers (20-30°C). Spring and fall pleasant. Northern Germany milder, southern Germany more extreme. Rain year-round.
Education
Free university education (€0-500/semester). Excellent public K-12 system (free). International schools available for expat families. Dual education system (vocational + university). Daycare (Kita) heavily subsidized.
Family Life
Family-friendly country with generous parental leave (12-14 months paid), child benefits (€250/month), free/low-cost childcare and education. Strong work-life balance. Excellent healthcare for families. Playgrounds everywhere.