Did you know that over 458,000 international students are in Germany as of 2024, and it is the fourth most desired study-abroad destination in the world?
While the primary cause of such popularity is the low-cost or free education system, the question on everyone's mind that all students would like to have some idea about before they make their transition is: "How much really does it cost to live in Germany per month?"
International students in Germany spend around ₹84,000 (approximately €934) on average per month on living costs such as accommodation, food, transport, and health, says the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Naturally, these prices differ from city-to-city with Munich and Frankfurt being expensive, Leipzig and Dresden remaining cheap for students.
Here, we will see the cost of living in Germany for foreign students, from living and eating to transportation and personal expenditure, so that you can plan effectively and gain maximum benefit from your study-abroad.
What Does “Cost of Living in Germany” Really Mean for International Students?
To understand the figures that are coming your way, first, let's figure out what the "cost of living" is. For students, it's not just rent and food, it includes all the needs for basic survival, comfort, and excelling in studies.
How does the cost of living differ for Students vs. Working Professionals?
When we say, "cost of living," it is the initial monthly charges you must make when you are in Germany, learning. For foreign students, it usually consists of:
Renting or housing fees
Groceries and food
Public transport, bikes, or passes
Mandatory health insurance
University semester fee payment charges
Bills such as electricity, phone, and internet
Personal spending such as leisure, fitness, and clothing
On average, a German student pays €934-€1,200 (₹84,000 - ₹1,08,000) a month. This is also connected with the German blocked account regulation, which ensures that the students will have sufficient funds to survive for at least one year.
Expense Category
Approximate Monthly Cost (€)
Approximate Monthly Cost (₹)
Housing & Rent
350 - 600
31,500 - 54,000
Food & Groceries
150 - 250
13,500 - 22,500
Transportation
30 - 60
2,700 - 5,400
Health Insurance
110 - 120
9,900 - 10,800
Miscellaneous Expenses
100 - 200
9,000 - 18,000
Total
934 - 1,200
84,000 - 1,08,000
How does the cost of living differ for Students vs. Working Professionals?
The biggest difference is accommodation and lifestyle. Students usually reside in shared flats (Wohngemeinschaft or WG), university dorms, or subsidized flats, which are cheaper. Professionals usually hire one-bedroom apartments, eat out more often, and go on more trips.
Professional range: €1,500-€2,000/month (₹1,35,000 - ₹1,80,000)
Students also receive discounts on transportation, cinema, museums, and restaurants, something that the professionals have less of.
How Much Does Housing Cost for Students in Germany?
Housing is the largest monthly cost, typically occupying 30 - 40% of a student's budget. Unlike in the US or UK where it is common for campuses to feature university-managed accommodation, Germany has very little of such. Most students seek housing in the private market or flat-share with other people.
What are the typical rent options for students (dorms, shared flats, private apartments)?
Accommodation in Germany usually accounts for the most significant expenditure of students in Germany. The rent depends upon the type of accommodation:
Most international students opt for flats shared with others since they are inexpensive, provide social interaction, and distribute the bill among flatmates. Dormitories are very cheap but have long queues. Private flats, as much as they ensure freedom, may be pricey in Munich or Frankfurt.
Which German cities are the cheapest and most expensive for student accommodation?
Rent varies quite significantly from city to city.
Internet & phone bills: €30 - €50/month (₹2,700 - ₹4,500)
Security deposit: Typically, 2 - 3 months' rent, returned when terminating tenancy.
What Are the Monthly Food and Grocery Expenses in Germany?
Grocery and food prices in Germany are relatively affordable compared to many other European study destinations. On average, international students spend €150 - €250 (₹13,500 - ₹22,500) on groceries each month depending on city, diet, and shopping. Aldi, Lidl, Penny, and Netto are inexpensive stores which keep the cost down, whereas Rewe and Edeka are a bit more expensive but provide larger varieties.
Home meals are generally the cheapest, and eating out occasionally is sure to set one back a pretty sum.
Expense Type
Monthly Cost (EUR)
Monthly Cost (INR approx.)
Groceries (home cooking)
€150 – €250
₹13,500 – ₹22,500
Eating out (occasionally, low budget)
€50 – €100
₹4,500 – ₹9,000
Eating out (frequently, restaurants/cafés)
€150 – €250+
₹13,500 – ₹22,500+
Total Average (mixed habits)
€200 – €350
₹18,000 – ₹31,500
How much do students usually spend on groceries per month?
Grocery in Germany is quite affordable compared to other countries such as the UK or USA. Students tend to spend approximately €150 - €250/month (₹13,500 - ₹22,500). The large supermarkets are Aldi, Lidl, Rewe, Penny, and Edeka. Discount supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl are students' and frugal shoppers' best bet for cutting costs.
Is eating out affordable for international students in Germany?
Eating out regularly can be expensive:
Restaurant meal: €10 - €20 (₹900 - ₹1,800)
Fast food meal: €7 - €10 (₹630 - ₹900)
Coffee: €3 - €4 (₹270 - ₹360)
Students usually eat out occasionally, especially in cities like Berlin where food trucks and international cuisines are popular.
Are student cafeterias (Mensa) a cheaper option for meals?
Yes! Almost every university in Germany has a Mensa (student cafeteria) offering subsidized meals:
Lunch at Mensa: €2 - €4 (₹180 - ₹360)
Full meal plan: €80 - €120/month (₹7,200 - ₹10,800)
This makes Mensa a highly cost-effective option for international students.
How Expensive Is Transportation for Students in Germany?
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Coverage) is mandatory for student visas. Budget around AUD 400 to 2,800 per year, depending on the provider, family size, and length of coverage.
How much does a student transport pass cost per month?
The semester ticket generally costs €150 - €250 for half a year (₹13,500 - ₹22,500). Broken down over the month, it's just €25 - €40 (₹2,250 - ₹3,600). This is a big discount from the standard public transport monthly ticket of €70 - €100 (₹6,300 - ₹9,000).
Transport Option
Cost (€)
Cost (₹)
Semester Ticket (per 6 months)
150 - 250
13,500 - 22,500
Semester Ticket (per month)
25 - 40
2,250 - 3,600
Regular Monthly Pass
70 - 100
6,300 - 9,000
Most students prefer that the semester ticket represents the best value since it's already part of the university fees.
Do international students get discounts on public transportation?
Transportation in Germany is secure, affordable, and reliable. Traveling by metro, buses, local trains, or bicycles, international students have a couple of economic alternatives for transportation to get around. With the majority of universities being in developed cities, students do not require personal automobiles. Knowing your transport alternatives gives you a chance to organize yourselves and pick the most affordable alternative for daily travel.
Is cycling a cost-effective transportation option in German cities?
Indeed! Not just is cycling one of the most inexpensive and healthiest modes of commuting but also highly popular among students. It is possible to purchase a second-hand bike for €100 - €300 (₹9,000 - ₹27,000), which is an investment for a few years.
Most German cities are also bicycle-friendly with special cycle tracks, cycle traffic lights, and cycle parking spaces close to university campuses. Student short-distance cycling is not an unusual thing to spot as it is both a way of cutting back on ticket fares and staying fit. Most universities have facilities for renting bicycles at a small monthly payment.
In cities like Leipzig and Münster, more than 30% of daily travel is by bicycle - making it the cultural expectation for students to ride!
How Much Do Health Insurance and Medical Expenses Cost in Germany?
Healthcare is one of the most important aspects of living in Germany as an international student. The German healthcare system is regarded as one of the best in Europe, and its structure ensures that every resident, including students, has access to affordable medical care. Unlike some other countries, Germany makes it legally mandatory for students to have health insurance before enrolling at a university.
While this may feel like an additional cost, it actually protects students from unexpected expenses in case of illness or emergencies. Let’s break down why insurance is required, how much it costs, and what hidden expenses you should prepare for.
Why is health insurance mandatory for international students in Germany?
German law requires all international students to have valid health insurance coverage, without which you cannot:
Enroll in a university
Obtain a residence permit
Access subsidized healthcare services
The logic behind this rule is simple: health insurance ensures that medical treatment is never delayed due to financial reasons. In Germany, even basic treatments like a doctor’s consultation or hospital admission can become costly if paid out-of-pocket. By making insurance mandatory, the government ensures that students are protected from large, unexpected bills.
For international students, this is a safety net, you don’t have to worry about how much an emergency hospital visit or surgery might cost, because your insurance takes care of it. This system also reduces financial stress, allowing you to focus on academics and student life.
How much does public vs. private health insurance cost for students?
International students generally have two options: public (statutory) health insurance and private health insurance. The choice depends on your age, enrollment status, and the type of course you’re pursuing.
Public Health Insurance (Statutory - AOK, TK, Barmer, etc.)
Monthly Cost: €110 - €120 (₹9,900 - ₹10,800)
Coverage: Doctor visits, hospital stays, basic dental checkups, prescriptions, vaccinations, and preventive care.
Best suited for: Students under 30 and those enrolled in degree programs.
Public insurance is impressive as it has comprehensive cover with few exclusions. Statutory insurance is accepted by many German doctors, and it is simple to see a doctor anywhere in Germany.
Private Health Insurance
Monthly Premium: €30 - €60 (₹2,700 - ₹5,400) (may be more depending on provider and cover).
Cover: Dependent on provider, might include hospital, doctor visits, and occasionally extras such as private hospital room.
Best for: Students older than 30, language-course or prep-course students who cannot enroll in mandatory insurance.
Private insurance may cost less up-front, but it typically has less coverage and more of your own money to shell out if you fall ill. Private plan students must compare closely what's included.
Foreign students in Germany (particularly below 30) opt for public health insurance though a bit pricier as it is reliable and universally accepted.
Are there any hidden healthcare costs students should be aware of?
For all this, however, health insurance pays for much of the medical bills, international students also have to budget for some out-of-pocket expenses. These are typically negligible but, in aggregate, significant:
Medicines and Prescriptions: Students usually pay a co-payment of €5-€10 (₹450 - ₹900) per prescription at pharmacies.
Dental Care: Routine checkups are included, but advanced treatments such as orthodontics, crowns, or cosmetic dental work are not fully covered.
Vision Care: Glasses, contact lenses, and eye tests are often excluded from insurance. You’ll need to budget separately for these.
Special treatment: Physiotherapy, psychotherapy, or alternative treatments could have additional payments if not covered comprehensively.
Average students would need to add another €20 - €50 per month. (₹1,800 - ₹4,500), depending on the needs.
Tip: Some students cut costs by taking admissions with local physicians who get paid directly from the insurance company, without up-front payment.
What Are the Education-Related Expenses in Germany?
In addition to living costs, international students must also provide for study expenses like semester charges, tuition charges (where applicable), text books, and learning software. These costs differ with going to a German public university or a private university and the requirements of your program.
Expense Type
Average Cost (€)
Average Cost (₹)
Semester Contribution
150 - 350
13,500 - 31,500
Tuition Fees (Public)
Mostly free
0
Tuition (Baden-Württemberg)
1,500/semester
1,35,000
Private Universities
6,000 - 15,000/year
5.4 - 13.5 lakhs
Textbooks/Study Material
50 - 100
4,500 - 9,000
How much are semester contributions and administrative fees?
Although most of Germany's universities have no tuition fees, all students must pay semester contributions, typically between €150 - €350 (₹13,500 - ₹31,500) twice a year. The fees are for purposes of covering administrative fees, student union facilities, and sometimes the semester ticket, which covers unlimited use of public transport in the area. The students shell out €300 - €700 (₹27,000 - ₹63,000) on these contributions for a year and therefore it becomes a part of the study budget.
Do public universities in Germany charge tuition fees?
Since most of the international students are exempt from paying tuition fees at German public institutions, it is one of the lowest ways to study in Europe. Exceptions are followed depending on the differences in Germany’s Education System:
Baden-Württemberg levies a tuition fee of €1,500/semester (₹1.35 lakhs) for non-EU international students.
Private universities are far more expensive at around €6,000 - €15,000 annually (₹5.4 - ₹13.5 lakhs) depending on the university and course.
This makes Germany extremely popular with students seeking quality education at relatively low costs compared to nations like the UK or USA.
How much do textbooks, study materials, and software cost per semester?
Students usually spend around €50 - €100 (₹4,500 - ₹9,000) on books and printed matter in a semester, but most universities have huge digital libraries that cut book purchases to an absolute minimum. Even some faculties provide course readers or gratis PDF copies of compulsory texts.
Heavily discounted or gratis copies of programs like MS Office, SPSS, MATLAB, or Adobe Creative Suite are also provided for students, lowering expenses overall. Spending €100 - €150 (₹9,000 - ₹13,500) per semester on academic material based on the course seems reasonable.
How Much Should Students Budget for Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses?
Apart from the essential needs of accommodation, food, and school assignments, lifestyle and individual spending constitute the majority of a student's average monthly spending. These entail clothing, physical fitness, social life, entertainment activities, and technology expenses such as internet and cellphone.
Category
Approximate Monthly Cost (€)
Approximate Cost (₹)
Clothing
50 -100
4,500 - 9,000
Fitness Club
20 - 40
1,800 - 3,600
Mobile SIM Plan
10 - 20
900 - 1,800
Internet (Wi-Fi)
30 - 40
2,700 - 3,600
Streaming Services
10 - 15
900 - 1,350
Leisure & Travel
50 - 150
4,500 - 13,500
How Do Living Costs Differ Across German Cities?
The price of living in Germany is very much city specific. Large, urban cities like Munich and Frankfurt are quite a bit pricier than smaller student cities like Leipzig or Dresden.
What is the cost of living in Berlin for international students?
Berlin is comparatively budget-friendly compared to other European capitals but nevertheless quite costly compared to German standards. International students pay approximately €1,000 - €1,100 per month (₹90,000 - ₹99,000). Rent costs €600 - €800 (₹54,000 - ₹72,000), and the remaining goes for food, transport, and incidentals.
How expensive is Munich compared to other German cities?
Munich is Germany's most costly city for students. Expenses here can go as high as €1,200 - €1,500 (₹1.08 - ₹1.35 lakhs) per month, and rent may be from €800 - €1,200 (₹72,000 - ₹1.08 lakhs). Munich is trendy even though costly because it has a good job market, universities, and high living standard.
Which student cities in Germany are budget-friendly (e.g., Leipzig, Dresden)?
Smaller cities such as Leipzig, Dresden, and Essen are considerably cheap in terms of living. The students in these cities can survive on €800 - €900/month (₹72,000 - ₹81,000), and rent is not too high, averaging €350 - €500 (₹31,500 - ₹45,000). These are the best options for those seeking low-cost living without sacrificing the quality of education.
Conclusion
Germany provides the unique blend of quality education, affordable tuition fees, and low living costs when compared to other top study-abroad locations. Students should be prepared to pay €934 - €1,200 (₹84,000 - ₹1,08,000) per month, but the amount can vary based on the city, lifestyle, and type of accommodation chosen. Rent and health insurance consume the biggest share of the budget, but discounts, semester-long public transport tickets, and sharing of accommodations can lower the expenses.
In contrast to foreign equivalents, Germany is cheaper than the USA and UK but comparable to Canada. And when combined with the high standard of education, vibrant cultural environment, and availability of part-time employment, it should not be surprising that Germany entices thousands of overseas students annually.
By proper planning, budgeting, and cost overrun appreciation, students not only get to meet their living costs but also receive an enriching experience that is well divided among studies, holidays, and self-growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Germany cheaper than other European countries for students?
Yes, Germany is reasonably priced in contrast to most of Europe. While the UK and the Nordic nations are expensive with high tuition fees and the cost of living, German public universities do not require or only require low tuition fees, and the monthly budget of €934 - €1,200 (₹84,000 - ₹1,08,000) is much less compared to London, Paris, or Amsterdam.
Can students survive on a strict budget in Germany?
Yes. International students get by on approximately €800-€900 (₹72,000 - ₹81,000) a month on shared accommodation, home meals, discount supermarket food, and semester tickets for public transportation. Budgeting and student lifestyle discounts make for a cheap life without compromising comfort or social life.
Do students need to pay utility bills separately in Germany?
It varies depending on the accommodation. In student residence, heating, electricity, and water are typically covered in the rent. In private shared flats (WG), though, students tend to share other monthly costs for utilities, ranging from €50-€100 (₹4,500 - ₹9,000) according to consumption and place of residence.
Are part-time jobs enough to cover living costs in Germany?
For most students, a part-time job is a good topping-up solution but perhaps insufficient for all. €12-€15/hour (₹1,080 - ₹1,350 per hour) can be spent on food, transport, or leisure but not on rent and insurance, which must be funded through other means. Students will combine part-time earnings with blocked account money or scholarship.
How much should students budget for seasonal expenses like winter clothing?
Seasonal expenses can accumulate, particularly for the tropical country folk. Winter jackets, shoes, and thermals could be about €150-€300 (₹13,500 - ₹27,000) initially. Buying them when on discount, at thrift shops, or at discount stores like German giant Primark and sportswear specialist Decathlon is cheaper. Budgeting in advance when it is winter season is advisable.
Are student cafeterias (Mensa) in Germany affordable?
Yes, university dining halls, or Mensa, are very affordable. The meal is usually €2-€5 (₹180 - ₹450), usually subsidized for students. Most international students depend on Mensa for daily meals because it provides healthy meals at comparatively lower prices than restaurants, and that is an important way of saving money.
Do students need a separate budget for travel insurance in Germany?
Travel coverage is usually only necessary when applying for a student visa. Medical insurance on the ground in Germany will cover most medical necessities. But if students do anticipate taking trips out of Germany on breaks, extra short-term travel coverage (€20-€40 per excursion) ((₹1,800 - ₹3,600 per excursion) can be necessary for complete protection.
How much does it cost to eat out in Germany as a student?
Dining out is expensive if eaten on a daily basis. A meal in a cheap restaurant costs €8-€12 (₹720 - ₹1,080), while a meal in a medium-priced restaurant cost €15-€20 (₹1,350 - ₹1,800) per person. Fast food places and döner kebabs are cheaper at €4-€6 (₹360 - ₹540). Students tend to keep dining out on the weekends.
Are there any hidden costs international students should prepare for?
Yes, students overlook one-time fees such as residence registration charges (€10-€30) (₹900 - ₹2,700), re-registration fees for a semester, or purchasing local commodities upon arrival. Medical needs, additional textbooks, or even retake test charges can be hidden there too. Having a reserve fund of €200-€300 (₹18,000 - ₹27,000) will enable such payments without any inconvenience.
Do students get discounts on cultural activities in Germany?
Yes. International students are able to get 20-50% discounts on museum entrance fees, movie tickets, theater productions, concerts, and even public festivals with a student ID card. Berlin and Leipzig are just some of the cities that have thriving cultural lives in which one can immerse oneself for low costs, thereby making Germany affordable for lifestyle growth.
Is it possible to save money while studying in Germany?
Yes, even most students can save something every month. By careful budgeting, buying when items are on offer, walking or cycling instead of using transport, and working part-time, students can save €50-€100 (₹4,500 - ₹9,000) a month. Although little is saved, it contributes towards paying for leisure activities or a weekend holiday in another part of Europe.
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