Housing & rent
Compare the rent you can realistically find, understand Kaltmiete versus Warmmiete, and plan for a deposit and initial setup.
Build a personal monthly budget, compare housing assumptions across cities, plan one-time arrival costs and see how much of your income may remain. Designed for students, Ausbildung applicants, professionals and families.
There is no single cost-of-living figure that fits everyone. Housing, household size, city, commute and insurance situation can change the result substantially.
Compare the rent you can realistically find, understand Kaltmiete versus Warmmiete, and plan for a deposit and initial setup.
Estimate groceries, cleaning supplies, toiletries, eating out and the difference between cooking at home and buying meals.
Budget for public transport, regional travel, bicycle costs or a car. The right choice depends on where you live and work.
Check what rent includes. Electricity, internet, mobile service, broadcasting contribution and other bills may need separate planning.
Confirm the coverage and contribution that apply to your status. Employees, students, trainees and self-employed people may differ.
Account for childcare, school-related needs, clothing, medicines, dependants, leisure and a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Enter your own expected amounts in euros. The figures below are editable starter examples, not official averages or a promise of what life will cost.
Currency: EUR (€) · Enter 0 for anything that does not apply.
Instead of relying on a possibly outdated “average cost”, compare the monthly budget impact of different rent quotes. Edit each city’s rent to match listings you are actually considering.
| City | Rent assumption / month (€) | Total estimated costs | Left after costs | Rent share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Munich Compare quote | €2,160 | €40 | 61% | |
| Berlin | €1,860 | €340 | 48% | |
| Hamburg | €1,810 | €390 | 45% | |
| Frankfurt am Main | €1,910 | €290 | 50% | |
| Cologne | €1,760 | €440 | 43% | |
| Leipzig | €1,510 | €690 | 32% |
Important: the rent figures shown are illustrative inputs for demonstrating the calculator. They are not verified current city averages, rental offers or a ranking of actual affordability. Your other-cost figure is held constant across cities to make the rent effect easier to compare.
Monthly affordability is only half the picture. Estimate the cash you may need before your first normal month begins, then compare it with the funds you expect to have available.
Use quotes and official fees that apply to your case. Enter zero for costs already paid or not relevant.
Use this checklist when reviewing a job offer, university plan, Ausbildung opportunity or relocation budget.
These common words help you ask better questions when comparing accommodation, contracts and everyday expenses.
Base rent, generally excluding operating costs and utilities.
Rent including specified operating costs; check exactly what is included.
Additional operating costs associated with the property.
Income after deductions, often the better starting point for a household budget.
Rental security deposit; review the contract and applicable legal rules.
Savings set aside for future plans, emergencies or relocation costs.
Practical answers to common budgeting questions. Your own figures and circumstances should always guide the final decision.
Use authoritative sources for statistics, transport products, study information and immigration requirements. These links are starting points; always confirm the page and rules relevant to your situation.