Study in Germany: Housing & Living Costs

One of the most important factors to consider when studying abroad is your budget. Housing costs will vary depending on if you choose to stay in university or private accommodation in Germany. The cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable compared to other European countries. You will need around €860 a month to cover your living expenses in Germany as of 2021.

Some average living costs throughout Germany are:

There are a few options available to students in Germany when it comes to accommodation, however, the main choice you will have to make is between student accommodation or renting a private residence. German universities do not automatically assign students accommodation, so you will need to do the relevant research to find a place yourself. 

Overall, the total cost of living in Germany depends on factors like the location of where you live and what type of lifestyle you have. In industrial big cities rent, food and clothes are more expensive. In contrast, in less-populated areas, you can expect cheaper prices.

Student Accommodation

Student halls of residence owned and maintained by Studentenwerk (Student Services Organization) are present in every university town. This is the most affordable type of accommodation, averaging around €240 per month. The 181,000 placements are in high demand, and it is, therefore, advisable that you apply for this housing as early as possible. This is done through the website of the Studentenwerk administration local to your chosen university.

Types of Student Accommodation

Numerous types of housing are available from Studentenwerk. The cheapest and most sociable option would be a room on a floor with a communal kitchen, bathroom, and living space. You could also opt for self-contained apartments with between two and seven bedrooms. For a more private residence, there are single and double apartments available which are also a little more pricey. Price also fluctuates depending on the level of furnishing. You can apply for housing with basic furnishing, typically entailing a bed, desk, wardrobe, and shelving, or even unfurnished for a cheaper price.

Private Accommodation

There is also the opportunity to rent accommodation from a private landlord or estate agent. Prices fluctuate greatly depending on the location and quality of the apartment, however, the price of housing in Germany averages around 210 to 360 EUR per month (although in major urban centers the price could be higher). To save on costs, consider living with roommates in a flatshare. Wohngemeinschaft, or WG as the Germans call it, is very popular among university students.

Housing Portals

HousingAnywhere is partnered with 170+ universities across 65 countries to help their students find accommodation abroad. In addition, they incentivize students to sublet their rooms and apartments to incoming students whilst they are away. Find affordable accommodation in Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich.

Uniplaces is a housing portal that offers a fresh approach to booking student accommodation online. It’s fast to book, safe to pay, and lets you browse through thousands of trusted properties in Europe’s best student cities, including Berlin and Munich.

Student.com offers over 1 million beds in Germany and other countries around the world. Their website is free to use and offers a dedicated team of expert accommodation consultants and price match comparisons. They also have formal contractual relationships with every landlord on their site for an added layer of security for you!