Cost of living in Germany in 2026: a complete guide for exchange students

Germany remains a smart choice for those seeking an exchange in 2026. With good cost-benefit ratio compared to other European destinations, the country offers quality education and professional opportunities. O Study and Work program in Germany can make that dream a reality.

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Minimum wage and basic cost of living

The German government set the minimum wage for 2026 at €13.90 per hour. With a standard working day of 40 hours a week, this represents approximately €2,410 monthly or €28,920 annually. A single person needs around €992 a month to cover basic expenses, an amount that also corresponds to the monthly withdrawal of the blocked account required for the visa.

This amount makes it possible to maintain a good standard of living with part-time jobs allowed for students. Work in Germany during studies it helps to supplement the monthly budget.

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Regional cost differences

Germany is divided into 16 federal states, each with economic peculiarities that directly impact the cost of living. Let's analyze the main regions:

Southern Germany: the most expensive pole

The southern region, especially Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, has the highest cost of living in the country. Cities like Munich and Stuttgart lead the price rankings:

• Rent: 30-40% higher than the national average
• Food: about 15% more expensive than other regions
• Transportation: higher values in sharing services

The region offers the highest salaries and the highest concentration of technology and industry companies.

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Northern Germany: balance between cost and quality

Northern cities, such as Bremen and Hamburg, offer attractive value for money. In Bremen, a one-bedroom apartment costs an average of €811, about 27% less than in Stuttgart. The region stands out for:

• Moderate housing costs
• Excellent port infrastructure
• Strong presence of renewable energy and maritime technology

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Eastern Germany: economic opportunities

East Germany, including Berlin and former East German cities, offers an interesting combination of opportunities and affordable costs. The federal capital has rents 19% cheaper than Paris and 54.3% lower than London. Cities such as Leipzig and Dresden feature:

• Rentals up to 35% cheaper than in the South
• Around 20% lower overall cost of living
• Growing hub of startups and innovation
• Strong investment in university infrastructure
• Large international student community
• Rich cultural life with affordable costs

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Central Germany: the ideal middle ground

The central region offers an interesting balance between cost and opportunities:

• Cities like Frankfurt combine financial sector with moderate costs
• Strong university presence with more affordable prices
• Excellent connection with all regions of the country
• Multicultural and dynamic environment

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Cost comparison in major German cities

To give you a clear view of the cost of living in the different regions, we analyzed the five main metropolitan areas in the country. Each region has unique characteristics that directly influence prices and quality of life.

Berlin: the cultural capital

The German capital is surprising because it maintains more moderate costs than other European capitals. An apartment in the center costs €1,220, while in the outdoor areas the price drops to €881. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs €70, and basic utilities amount to €322.57 per month. The city stands out for:

• Europe's largest startup hub
• Vibrant cultural and artistic scene
• Strong international community
• Excellent public transport
• Plenty of green areas
• Dynamic nightlife

Munich: excellence and high cost

The Bavarian capital stands out as the most expensive city in Germany, but it also offers the best salaries and quality of life. In the center, a one-bedroom apartment costs an average of €1,446, while in the peripheral areas the price drops to €1,213. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs €80, reflecting the high local purchasing power. The basic utilities for an 85m² apartment amount to €334.07 per month. The city stands out for:

• Higher concentration of technology companies
• Excellent public transport system
• Proximity to the Alps
• Strong Bavarian cultural tradition

Frankfurt: the financial heart

As the financial center of Germany, Frankfurt has high costs but offers excellent professional opportunities. A central apartment costs around €1,283, with more affordable options for €939 in outlying areas. The restaurants maintain similar prices to Munich, with meals for two costing €80. The city's differential includes:

• Germany's largest airport hub
• International labor market
• Central location in Europe
• Strong presence of financial institutions

Hamburg: port tradition

The Hanseatic city combines maritime tradition with modernity. The rents are more moderate: €1,097 in the center and €785 in the peripheral areas. Basic utilities are the most economical among large cities, costing €320.48 per month. Highlights of the region:

• Germany's main port
• Strong media and communication sector
• Excellent quality of life
• Preserved historic architecture

Cologne: value for money in the Rhine-Ruhr region

Representing Germany's largest metropolitan region, Cologne offers excellent value for money. Rents are the most affordable among large cities: €1,027 in the center and €791 in outlying areas. Food is also more economical, with meals for two costing €65. Strengths:

• Grande Polo Universitário
• Strong media industry
• Rich cultural life
• Strategic location in western Germany

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Cheapest cities

East German cities, such as Leipzig and Dresden, offer excellent opportunities for international students on a more limited budget. Some characteristics of these cities include:

• Rent up to 35% cheaper than Stuttgart
• Excellent university infrastructure
• Strong presence of an international student community
• More affordable cost of living overall

For international students, it's important to consider not only costs, but also factors such as academic opportunities, networking, and internship or work possibilities in each region. Each city offers a unique experience and different possibilities for personal and professional development.

Learn more about The best cities to work in Germany.

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Expenses on utilities and services

For complete financial planning, it is essential to consider the monthly costs of essential services. In an 85m² apartment, you can expect the following expenses:

• Electricity, heating, water and garbage collection: €303.85 on average
• High-speed Internet (60 Mbps or more): €45.24
• Mobile plan with 10GB or more: €25.67
• Health insurance: between €145 and €152 for students

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Food and market spending

One of the biggest advantages of studying in Germany is the relatively affordable cost of food. In German supermarkets, you can find high-quality products at fair prices. Check out some average values in 2026:

• Milk (1 liter): €0.95 to €1.15
• Wholemeal bread (500g): €1.69 to €1.89
• Dozen eggs: €2.89
• Chicken fillet (1kg): €12.45
• Potatoes (1 kg): €1.15
• Gouda cheese (150g): €2.49 to €2.79

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Transportation and mobility

Germany offers an efficient public transport system. In 2026, the Deutschland Ticket costs €63 monthly for the general public, allowing unlimited travel across the country. For students, the amount is approximately €35 to €38 per month, included in the semester fee. This is an exceptional benefit for those who want to explore different regions. Other transportation options include:

• Bike: sharing service for €5.90 per month
• Taxi: starting fare from €4.50 + €1.80 to €3 per kilometer
• Petrol for your own car: average of €1.75 per liter

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Leisure and entertainment

The country offers several entertainment options with varying prices to suit all tastes. On average, you can expect to spend:

• Cinema: €10 to €16 per ticket
• Fitness center: €34.84 monthly
• Sporting events: €14.12 to €80 (Bundesliga games)
• Clubs and nightlife: entry between €10 and €30
• Streaming: Netflix €13.99, Spotify €10.99

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Tips for saving during the exchange

To make the most of your experience in Germany without compromising your budget, consider these strategies:

• Opt for smaller cities or East German regions
• Search for shared housing (WG - Wohngemeinschaft)
• Take advantage of student discounts at university restaurants
• Use the Deutschland Ticket for transportation
• Consider working part-time while studying
• Look for free cultural activities, such as museums on specific days

If you're considering other destinations, also check out the opportunities for study and work in Ireland, Australia or Aotearoa.

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Be Easy

A Be Easy is prepared to help you fulfill your dream of studying in Germany, offering complete support from choosing the ideal city to adapting to the local cost of living. Our specialized team provides personalized guidance to ensure that your financial planning is appropriate to the German reality. Contact us and discover how we can make your international experience smoother and more accessible.