cost of living in GERMANY | housing, food, transport & more

How expensive is Germany? This video covers apartments and student housing, groceries, restaurants and take out, transport (trains, bikes and buses), health insurance and many more things. I did the best and accurate as I could. Let me know if there are any additional information I missed :))
If you would like to support & donate my silly little videos: ko-fi.com/helloerika
If you’re planning to move to Germany for whatever reason, it’s good to know and have a clear view on the cost of living in Germany. This video covers the average basic costs.
Although Germany ranks above average in the OECD Better Life Index in terms of quality of life and well-being, shopping bills in major German cities are often significantly less than in other major European cities.
And surprisingly the cost of living in big German cities is lower than in other major European cities such as Paris, London, Rome, Brussels, and Zurich, except Madrid.
00:00 welcome to germany
01:40 wifi & mobile
01:50 additional housing costs
01:59 radio & cable
02:25 groceries
04:46 dining & take out
05:47 cafe & coffee
06:04 ov chipkaart
06:12 transportation
06:22 bikes
06:42 bus, trams & metro
07:12 trains
08:16 cars
08:42 health insurance
09:18 shopping
10:15 student life
11:03 in conclusion
The 49 euro ticket is rumored to come more in March or April and it will last for 2 years as an experiment. Sadly it was not super realistic to have it come out on January but I am looking forward to it.
NOTES:
Metros (subways, tube) are called the U-Bahn (underground train), whilst over ground trains in cities are referred to as the S-Bahn.
Regional trains are referred to as the RE (regional express) or RB (regional Bahn). Intercity trains are named IRE (interregio-express) or ICE (intercity express).
Some sources I used:
Tipping:
www.german-way.com/the-truth-...
Costs and saving money:
www.expatrio.com/living-germa...
Healh insurance in germany:
www.howtogermany.com/pages/he...
The confusing train system:
www.bahn.com/en/offers
instagram: @helloerikapeanut
Buy me a Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/helloerika
Disclaimer: Sorry if you see misspellings, it happens more often then i notice.
Thank you everyone for 7k subbies! Remember, you matter ✨ and see you soon! ✨

[@yukiezi]

Important info to the tickets, theres a subscription for 49€ as she mentioned in the video that's live, which allows for unlimited traveling in local public transport. This includes every bus, subway and regional train, which are (RB, RE, IRE) Basically if you see a white train with a fat red line, don't use it and you're fine.

[@avanyfilimsies-iv8zv]

why cant we use that white train? sorry im new to this

[@maaax1173]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@avanyfilimsies-iv8zv White with a red stripe across the length of the train is the standard design for intercity services (IC and ICE) which are not included in the Deutschlandticket, neither are services by private operators like Flixtrain. Basically, you’re only allowed to use RB-, RE- or S trains, but those make up the majority anyway

[@avanyfilimsies-iv8zv]

@@maaax1173 oo cool

[@sohret1193]

​@@maaax1173Also wie in Österreich, städlicher Zugverkehr, für den Bundesland eins und private Firmen, die überall hinfahren wie Flixbus

[@josesalvador9118]

You forgot the psychological cost of learning german 😭

[@shambeer3799]

That might put Germany in debt again just like after the ww1 (We all know how that ended)

[@shambeer3799]

On a lighter note it isn't that hard and actually relatively easy for english speakers. Plus you don't have to be perfect most germans will understand you broken deutsch

[@YusufFrancoMontanez823]

😂😂😂 German is easy to learn! I've taught my own self! Don't be lazy !

[@bellarobaf.2623]

As an Italian living in Germany i have to say this is the best video that i see so far about the cost of living. Keep doing that

[@userRyuru5]

Ciao come ti trovi vorrei trasferirmi anche io, livello di qualità di vita e stipendio come ti trovi?

[@bellarobaf.2623]

@@userRyuru5 ciao, dipende molto dalla zona e da quello che vorresti fare, se mi dai più info ti posso comunicare il mio punto di vista.

[@userRyuru5]

@@bellarobaf.2623 ciao vorrei trasferirmi per una questione di opportunità di lavoro, mi sto formando nel settore di design di interni e esterni arredamento, ho un diploma tecnico specifico riconosciuto in Europa. Sono l'ultimo anno ho anche fatto stage circa 900h presso aziende italiane non mi convincono .

[@userRyuru5]

@@bellarobaf.2623 mi è sfuggita la notifica! Io lavoro nel settore d'automazione industriale 4.0 sono un junior ho 1 anno di esperienze nel settore, vorrei trasfermi per una qualità di maggiore e perché non mi piace la situazione politica e lavorativa in Italia

[@adilrabbani3562]

Hallo :) I'm an international living in Germany for about 4 years. Just wanted to say that your videos are very well made! I feel your channel is very underrated but pretty sure it is going to blow up soon with the amount of quality videos you have! The videos are fun to watch and also giving useful information. Almost has an "Emma Chamberlain" vibes to them! :D I subscribed! Keep it up!

[@Theowest]

Federal Republic of Germany = F.R.O.G.

[@t.cookie2828]

😂

[@mugurekimani1380]

Awwwwww 😂

[@jotsingh8917]

USA = United States of Amnesia

[@daanwillemsen223]

I'm from a Dutch border town and during the summer of 21 I visited a lot of Ruhr cities with the 5 euro ticket. My city also got leveled during WW2 so I feel right at home visiting the Ruhr area 😁

[@BlueJayy1904]

Yeah the amount of dutchies who visit us here is insane. Especially here in Bottrop/Oberhausen. Seeing Dutch Cops patrolling together with their German counterparts on the Weihnachtsmarkt in Oberhausen was so weird.

[@daanwillemsen223]

@@BlueJayy1904 Yes I visited multiple weihnachtsmarkten by train in NRW (And I didn't had a SINGLE delay it's a miracle), I heard more Dutch speakers than Germans sometimes

[@elenahk7315]

Hey Erika, thanks for the information. This was helpful. Love the break down 👍

[@barzybahadin4945]

this video was beautiful and amazing the story telling was good and covered most of the things, thanks you for you hard work and time that you invested in making this video

[@diaryofbubble]

i recently came across your channel but it is sooooo calm and refreshing and peaceful and fun and just... perfect the way you share information is just perfecctt

[@enzormma]

Your videos are really enjoyable to watch and you do such a great job making them. I like your footage & I look forward to the next one 🇩🇪

[@shayinnit9839]

Thank you Erika for such a great detailed video! you are such a life saver

[@tamborvivo]

This is a great video. Thanks for taking the time to make things so clear and straight forward. Well done, Erika!

[@sahilsonawane2706]

Thank You Soo Much for the video it really gave a slightly clearity while planning to come to Germany. 😅

[@spiritadora]

Your sense of humor is on another league. I love your videos😁😁😁

[@mck3nzi33]

i loved this video!! erika, you were so nice to listen to and you were concise and got to the point. thank you for this insightful video :)

[@terminator12cbw]

Such a great job, this is top tier content

[@mileke0]

This is a really great video. Well done.

[@VikingSummer]

This is premium content! Very thorough!

[@5977499]

The language barrier can hinder job seekers in Germany, as many employers require proficiency in the German language for most positions. This can limit job opportunities and make it difficult for non-German speakers to secure employment. Additionally, low salaries and high taxes can further compound the challenges faced by job. Apart from language barriers, cultural patterns of behavior can also pose challenges for individuals entering the German job market. Differences in communication styles and cultural norms can impact workplace dynamics and hinder effective collaboration. Germany's unique system of dual vocational training and bureaucratic processes can add to the difficulties faced by job seekers and students. The combination of language barriers, cultural differences, and complex systems can make it challenging to navigate and integrate into German society.

[@VictorFlamenco]

This is the most accurate video I have seen on this topic. I can confirm with precision, as a person living in Germany for 6 years.

[@breezyng7085]

Between Germany and uk. Which is better for one looking for a better standard of living and job

[@victoraldana8635]

How much money can you save per month with a minimum wage?

[@VictorFlamenco]

Depends on your lifestyle and expenses.

[@yoence7041]

Thank You Very interesting, I once lived for several days in the city of Hamburg. Hopefully I can visit other cities in Germany again

[@BItencure]

I loved your sense of humor :D Also very good information, subscribed!

[@a.r.a.s7309]

thank you so much. I found this video very helpful. big hug💙

[@filipinabisdaknurseswissvlog39]

Watching your video from Switzerland. Very important information

[@SILLYG00SERY]

Thank you for making this! I'm looking to moving to Germany to start university and for a fresh start and actually gives me expectations on pricing so I know how to save up! That's super important to me as someone who is working an entry level position at a job that doesn't pay much trying to save up not only for the move but to have extra money to fall back on :)

[@eatsmylife_]

even though im not planning moving to germany anytime soon 😅your videos are always a pleasure to watch 😌(it maybe the fact that always some supermarket related footage will pop up ❣🛒)also love the fact that you also change the color of the hair to your avatar 😆

[@Sosiska_aliska]

Thank you! Would actually love to know/hear about the differences you feel after living in the Netherlands compared to Germany

[@zanafer]

Yes plz

[@ichfabio]

Please 😊

[@ThePoisonedReaper]

For us Americans it is a solid A if not S tier for transportation. Obviously Netherlands is the best so they have quite a angelic pallet.

[@Okay-rw3es]

@@ThePoisonedReapertransportation is not that good tho. Its okay and im thankful but the Deutsche Bahn needs to step up his game, people here are mad asf

[@user-fc3rn3vv4h]

Thank you ! I’m looking for a university to study in Germany

[@alihammouchi454]

Thank you for your efforts, the video is useful and detailed❤

[@astaniroedeo]

Nice info, thank you for the video.

[@Valy18]

Great video. Love the Frankfurt images reminds me of some good times spent out there.

[@samuelodan2376]

I thoroughly enjoyed myself watching this video. Thanks for making it.

[@ASMRWeekly]

Why your videos are so pleasing to watch😆? So fun and also educative! i don't plan on living in Germany but i'd love to stay on it for months Keep making these, i can't stop watching cause they are so well made haha

[@Kratos-hl6ip]

I swear she is so good at it , u can clearly see the talent at the details

[@MissMiriamB]

Your vlogs are truly a comfort zone for me 🤗 Keep up the good work & greetings from Hanover 🙌

[@johnalexis9582]

Hello beautiful how are you and where are you from.

[@sudiptomukherjee2346]

Always the best Erika😇

[@kosalawejesooriya8344]

Thank you .Great video

[@PairyKurta]

thanks so much for the vid!

[@zafarinc7084]

Loved it! that is the most sarcastic video i've ever seen, god bless you , big thanks!

[@magician2166]

Your videos are amazing. Thank you very much and please continue. You are natural. 👍🙏

[@ashishchauhan1152]

Thanks for the information

[@sarapereira4384]

Thank you!! Super helpful

[@dyingostrich]

thanks for sharing these, clearly and helps a lots!

[@munaeemjamal-zl8hf]

I found the video very informative. It gave me all the information in a simple way.

[@romigoletto]

i love your videos! and your sense of humour

[@raphaelhuddlestonflores2706]

Thanks for the help!

[@rishiraj2548]

Thanks. Good day greetings!

[@brendachitsamba3834]

So informative🎉

[@mariafernandaramirezrojas4057]

thank you very much, it's useful 🥺

[@gillianwaruingi4368]

Very informative.danke schön

[@kundeza]

this is really informative, thanks 😊

[@Words.of.Wisdom-io9qm]

Nice content ❤

[@remonsamaan1016]

Great video, enjoyed every minute ❤️

[@husnaintariq3057]

Nice vlog 🥰

[@abdulrhmanmohsen6465]

Thank you for the video ///// from Egypt

[@mariebruneau644]

Great video!!

[@kyriakikaravasili7324]

Nice video. Thank you

[@AndreyIlin]

Nice video!

[@ivanazivanac5748]

This video is just amazing! Thank you a lot

[@tvFiras]

I just love you for this video its what I was looking for

[@plamenvasilev]

Lovely Video, Erika. Thank you! :)

[@LessonWorldTV]

I really enjoyed your narration & style of vlogging. Just subscribed! Keep shining ✨️ and watching from the UK 🇬🇧

[@d.cleftcomedy853]

Actually making sense

[@LessonWorldTV]

@@d.cleftcomedy853, a lot of sense. Informative videos are the best!

[@geddon436]

As an american, I thoroughly enjoyed your day to day living expenses explainations

[@pritamshinde6622]

this is good information

[@crisswalter6148]

Your videos are extremely fun , and you are so cute 🥹 . Keep it up 😊👌

[@Qwertyuiop-gh6up]

Thank you for all of your information! Also loved your rhyme lol

[@imliketiitii]

planning on moving to germany (from finland) with my best friend in 2 years ^-^ found your channel a few months ago and have enjoyed your content a lot! just wanted to comment on the cigarette prices.. they are extremely low compared to the prices in finland, one pack here is 9.50-15€ :DD a bit random thing to comment on but why not ^-^

[@udipsedhain]

Das ist sehr helpful. 🤟

[@liebeswolkchen3012]

Great Video Love from germany

[@deepawanasinghe5532]

Great, Thank you 🙏

[@legendlegend1621]

Thank you very much for the video, very appreciated

[@sanjida_hasan]

Thanks. Very informative.❤

[@user-ve9gj2jd6p]

thank you!

[@miguelangel1129]

Awesome video, subscribed!

[@JanetJames-dw6xo]

I lived in Germany in the 80s, really loved it. Hada good standard of living. The prices haven't really gone up that much. In England the cost of living seems to rise weekly. Wish I had stayed in Germany to be honest.

[@a4000t]

My family was stationed in Germany in the mid 70's and an America there felt like a rich man then, everything was so cheap,and great food.

[@MG007.]

God, I need to get to Germany 🇩🇪 ❤ With my bike ❤

[@eliasm8439]

Well, the curency changed from Mark to Euro so while the number on the pricetags is the same as 40 years ago it has actualy doubled.

[@williamvanholder3368]

Germany is much too expensive, rent an appartment for 1200 euro per month thank you no

[@conniep3164]

Prices have skyrocketed. Lived there for almost 18 years. Everything has tripled in price.

[@ichfabio]

Hey, great video! Thanks a lot!

[@Pinkudaniemridha]

very helfull video thank you

[@ChineduPaulOnuegbu]

Very good video.

[@sarahulfa7834]

This video really helpful thank you so much

[@mikewoolie5153]

I love the place being mostly of German heritage, English, Irish, Scotch and Comanche. An aunt was stolen by the Comanche back in the 1800s. Too long of a story to get into. Been there at least 5 X, would like to live there 6 months out of the year. Something I may work on some day. They may be able to use me there because I was a Broadcast Engineer in TV.

[@mohammadalkalaleeb2446]

OMG, I didn't expect to be the second viewer or so :)

[@gab363]

Awesome!

[@sugichandranpadmanaban3331]

You are awesome!

[@anavictoria-diaryofanartis8472]

I love your videos…❤and i’t a great way to improve my English skills and have fun at the same time

[@okbasalman]

great video

[@kasraghasemipoo7991]

Very helpful...appreciate it

[@YezaOutcast]

welcome to germany, erika :) i hope you do well! it's hard to find living space these days, not even talking affordable ones. can i ask in which part of germany you made your new life here?

[@morei5834]

Very useful information. ✨ Also, what are the songs you used when explaining the groceries?

[@seangurevich5077]

whoops, new comfort-video just dropped. Made tea.

[@TheObscuragirl]

Hi Erika!!! Your videos are so insightful and comforting

[@eriksezis8255]

Dear Betty Telly, the channel "hello erika" has 46 videos of different lengths, each of which tells something interesting (or not) about the author. Of course, we expect from "hello erika" every new video, where she again tells something new about herself and the world around her. But is it worth waiting for the intro and how long should it be in order to fully acquaint you with the author? Thank you Betty Telly for joining our regiment of subs.🥸

[@TheObscuragirl]

@@eriksezis8255 I think it'll be worth waiting for the intro :) It'll be a nice re-introduction to her newer subscribers~

[@SyoCoF]

I loved the supermarket part. I watched several videos and they didn't show basic products. Thank you very much for the content!

[@nemo1987b]

You're so cute, o my god. I Subscribed imminently 😊

[@bazminshaikh7080]

Very informative , thanks Can u make something on school addmissions in german and international school fees and process to get addmission

[@mucipcelebi4387]

i will escape germany and start learning English with this Channel...

[@mustaphaboutbag2986]

very informative nice video

[@faceluckcell9484]

Interesting one GEr " many your sense of humorrous, funny

[@mitat1150]

Thank you

[@user-hv5pk5yp8q]

You won't see public transport delayed in Taiwan, by bus, the basic ticket is 50 cent us$. It's very friendly for traveler.

[@aurelioamsterdam7581]

Danke!

[@ilyasgamess]

nice video

[@florencelina9303]

Very interesting video, even though im german :D

[@thepebblesexplore83]

My god as an American the housing and internet/mobile costs sound amazing. I pay 2k in a small town for a townhouse. And internet here is $70. That’s not even with my phone bill. I probably pay less in taxes or something but still. Living in a city for the sake of less I pay now sounds great.