How Is It To Live In Berlin?

Final thoughts on living in Berlin as an expat – Berlin is definitely one of the best places to live in Germany, Living in Berlin is a great option for expats. The city is rich in culture, history, amazing nightlife, great food, great art, and so much more.

Is moving to Berlin a good idea?

Why Move to Berlin? – Berlin can be beautiful and green in the summer and there are lots of places to enjoy the sun outdoors, while in winter, there are lots of museums to visit and Christmas markets to enjoy. The people can be warm too and they will really appreciate it if you make an effort to Speak a little German.

Is Berlin expensive to live in?

Marle – Updated on Nov 10 • 6 minute read The cost of living in Berlin is just above the European average and yet the vibrant city is the cheapest capital city in Western Europe ! A true paradise for all international students and young expats who want to swap their life in their home country for the urban jungle without having to dig too deep into their pockets.

Living expenses in Berlin Cost of living in Berlin for single person (Breakdown) Cost of living per month in Berlin for students Average rent in Berlin (apartment versus room)

Is Berlin a good place to live for foreigners?

Is Berlin a good place for foreigners? – Yes, Berlin is a great city for foreigners. The cost of living is affordable and there are a lot of fun neighbourhoods to live in. The people are friendly and there is always something to do.

What salary is needed in Berlin?

Berlin: 37.800 euros per year (gross)

Is it hard to find a job in Berlin?

The Reality Of Finding Work In Berlin In 2022 – It’s Not So Easy It’s hard to believe that in early 2020, I hosted a workshop about, inspired by one of my blog posts on that very topic. At the time, I shared a slide that read “Finding a job in Berlin is almost a job in itself.” and advised that while it was possible to find a job in Berlin, that it was easier for some than it was for others.

• As the workshop unfolded and people shared their personal stories, we collectively realized this was (and is!) an undeniable truth.
• In this article, we’ll explore just why it’s easier for some than others and highlight certain realities you need to know about when looking for work in Berlin – or all of Germany for that matter.

We’ll also address the ongoing effects of the pandemic, as well as the war in Ukraine, all of which have contributed to an alarming rise in inflation, massive layouts, a likely recession, and an energy crisis. So while finding work isn’t impossible, it’s unfortunately, more difficult than it’s ever been.

• We believe it’s important to learn about the reality of working in Berlin long before you pack your bags and move here.
• If you know about potential obstacles you may face, you’ll know exactly what you need to do to overcome them, like learning German for example.
• We’ll also point you to plenty of resources to help you navigate the experience of looking for work in Berlin, like Make It In Germany’s to find out about your chances of finding work here.

It depends on a number of factors, like what you do for a living, which languages you speak, whether or not you need a work permit, your level of education, where you live, and more. If you work in a field that’s in demand, it’s definitely going to be easier for you to find a job in Berlin,

Software developers, architects, programmers Electronics engineers, electricians, electrical fitters Nurses IT consultants, IT analysts Economists, business management experts Customer advisors, account managers Production assistants Sales representatives/assistants Sales managers, product managers Architects, civil engineers

People in these fields are exceptionally privileged when it comes to finding work in Germany, as this group is not representative of everyone but a lucky few. If you work in one of these professions, some companies will go above and beyond to bring you here.

While people in these fields may entertain multiple job offers with high salaries, there is a larger group of people who sadly aren’t as fortunate. Check out this article where we more closely examine and provide steps you need to follow to move to Berlin and find work. Even among the people who work in these high demand professions, it’s still murky.

For example, if you’re a software engineer from the US with zero knowledge of the German language, you may find a company willing to hire you, help you relocate, and assist you in getting the appropriate work permit. Yet if you’re a nurse from the US with zero knowledge of the German language, you won’t be permitted to work in Germany until you learn the language.

Read our take about the situation with and why it’s so important to. While it’s possible to find a job where you work only in English (read about why more and more as their spoken language in the workplace), it’s not as common as you may think. So bottomline, not speaking German can be a major blocker that prevents you from finding work.

Most visas require a university degree or have taken vocational training. Someone without a degree may have loads of experience and be better qualified than another candidate with a degree who’s applying for the same position, but the government will almost always hand the visa to the person with the degree.

In cases where employers really want to hire, they can appeal your case by providing appropriate justifications. These appeals require a high level of commitment and investment from your employer and are usually quite successful. Sadly, many companies won’t take this route, as it is timely, resource-consuming, and expensive.

Typically, German companies will usually hire a person with a degree so they can avoid the hassle. Taking it even further, employers often don’t want to hire someone who requires a visa. Quite often, they can find equally qualified people, either Germans or others from the EU who don’t require a visa.

• The choice is then easy and obvious, as they’ll hire a candidate who doesn’t require a work permit.
• Obviously, employers should hire you regardless and while we don’t agree with them not hiring you because you lack the education or require a visa, many companies are short on cash and don’t have so many options.

While the country has done much to, old practices remain, and sadly, finances still guide businesses in making their decisions. A sensitive issue that many people fail to mention in their content about finding work in Berlin and something that could adversely affect your ability to do so is bias in the recruiting process.

• This bias can come in many forms, including racism, gender, age, sexual preference, marital status, spoken languages, where a person lives, and more.
• It’s essential to understand that these biases cannot be underestimated or discounted.
• If you have a German name, you’re more likely to find work than someone with a “foreign” sounding name.

If you’re caucasian, you’re more likely to find work than a person of color. If you’re young, even without that much experience, you’re more likely to find work than a 50+ seasoned career professional. If you’re a man, you’re more likely to find work than a woman who’s married and at a “childbearing” age.

I could go on and on with different examples. Many people carelessly dole out advice about your needing to inject an excessive amount of information into your CV – a photo, your date of birth, your marital status, and even the number of children you have. “It’s just standard practice in Germany,” they say as if it makes it right.

Yes, many Germans put this information on their CV, but don’t feel pressured to do so. Read this guide about whether or not you should, Use your own judgment and do what you feel is appropriate. Just be aware that all of this information, such as how you look or how old you are, could lend to bias (either purposeful or unconscious) that affects whether or not you’ll be considered for a job.

• The good news is that the prohibiting discrimination and enabling victims of discrimination the ability to hold guilty parties accountable for their actions.
• There’s so much power in being aware of potential biases, as you can then more easily overcome them, seek local support, and call it out when it happens.

Loads of people apply for jobs in Berlin. While there are success stories – some people find jobs within days or weeks, even fielding multiple offers. For others, as mentioned above, it isn’t so easy. Some apply for countless jobs for which they are very qualified and still get no interviews.

Some score loads of interviews but somehow still don’t land a job. Some never find a job at all and aren’t able to stay in Berlin, as time and money runs out and they’re forced to return home. Check out our post to help you plan a monthly budget for your Berlin life. Or read our guide about, The fortunate ones getting job offers may still come into a bad fortune.

While visa applications are processed much faster than they used to be, it can still be a lengthy and complicated undertaking. I’ve seen colleagues have theirs approved in less than two weeks and known others where it took more than three months. Some employers can’t or won’t be willing to wait that long and may cancel your contract during the processing period.

1. Even worse, there’s also the chance that the foreigner’s office could turn down your visa and deny any of your employer’s appeals.
2. Even worse, I’ve known people who received their visas, showed up to work, and were laid off on their first day.
3. Yes, their very first day! Some companies play a dirty game and don’t look out for their potential employees.

When this happens, you’ll be given two weeks’ pay and sent on your way. If you haven’t been in Germany for that long (you need to have financially contributed to the country’s coffers for 12 consecutive months through wage deductions), you won’t qualify for any state assistance.

You’ll need to handle all of your expenses on your own, including health insurance. If your visa is tied to your job, time will start ticking for you to find a new job before you’ll no longer be permitted to stay in the country. Another point to consider when searching for a job in Berlin, or all of Germany for that matter, is to consider your sources.

You’ll see lots of click-baiting headlines for newspaper articles, local blogs, and Youtube channels. They’ll tell you how easy it is to find a job here, even when you don’t know German, or have the required education, skills, and/or experience. The content tends to be overly positive, lacking research, and highly superficial.

• Reading those articles or watching those Youtube videos isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but consider the source.
• Are they knowledgeable? What are their sources of information? What are their qualifications? What are their motivations? To be frank, you’ll also find that some of these content creators are Caucasian living fairly affluent lifestyles.

Many of them don’t have insight, or empathy for that matter, into what people from different backgrounds experience. They’re convinced that if they found a job in Berlin, that everyone else can too, even though that logic is inherently flawed. So while anecdotal information can be helpful, do yourself a favor and get information from valid sources like your employer’s human resource department, official government websites,, and/or,

• We especially love, as they provide visa and other information about finding work – for free and in English! Soooo much has changed in our world since I delivered that workshop.
• We saw what COVID-19 did to the world and Germany wasn’t isolated from its impact.
• Borders closed, companies went bankrupt overnight, and people lost their jobs, with the more fortunate only surviving due to good luck, solid financial planning, and/or government assistance.

While Germany fared the pandemic pretty well, the effects are still being felt. Not all businesses recovered, than before the pandemic, and the short-term work program ( Kurzarbeit ) continues due to our poor economic outlook. It was predicted that 2022 would be a better year but then it got complicated.

• The strong lockdowns in China,
• All the while, inflation continued to rise.
• Many industries suffered from a shortage of workers.
• Worst of all, Russia invaded Ukraine resulting in an absolutely devastating war.
• The combination of all of these things is putting many countries in a precarious economic position.

Read our guide about how to, All of these things have a massive impact on Europe, and Germany is no exception. The sanctions imposed on Russia (well worth bearing of course!), rising prices at the supermarket are putting the, the cost of gas at the pump has many people leaving their cars at home, and, leaving many fearful at being able to pay their utility bills.

• Our reliance on Russian gas and oil left Germany exposed after the war broke out.
• Since Russia turned off gas to Germany in August 2022 and both the Nordstream 1 and 2 pipelines were blown up not long after, dependence on gas from Russia is finally finished.
• While these events drove up energy prices, gas storage tanks are almost full for the winter and we even have an excess supply.

While it will take some time still, some finance experts are predicting an eventual end to the energy crisis. To prepare for this winter, the European Union has asked all countries to, The government is of public landmarks in Berlin, rental companies are,, people are taking shorter showers and cooking less, and landlords increasing warm rents (I received notice of an immediate increase in Aug 2022).

The government has already been actively helping out the population date, with the monthly, a, and s on customers. There are,, and, Regardless of these measures, the overall economic situation isn’t expected to ease anytime soon and regular folks are going to feel it financially. As of October 2022, a,

There’s no denying that things are pretty bleak right now, and the future isn’t looking bright as it should. However, there are still things to remain positive about and while we should remain extremely vigilant like working to save money and conserve our, there’s no reason to panic yet.

Can I live in Berlin without speaking German?

Adjust to life in Germany – After you settle in Berlin, get familiar with German culture:

learn how to sort your trash and return empty bottles learn how to safely stream movies and shows respect the quiet hours remember that most businesses close on Sundays make a budget and find ways to save money understand how German phone numbers work

If you don’t speak German, you can still get help in English:

English-speaking doctors and GPs in Berlin English-speaking psychiatrists and psychotherapists in Berlin English-speaking tax advisors in Berlin English-speaking lawyers in Berlin English-speaking dentists in Berlin English-speaking barbers and hair salons in Berlin English-speaking gynaecologists in Berlin

Is 1000 euros enough for a month in Germany?

The cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable compared to other European countries. You will need around 934 euros a month to cover your living expenses in Germany as of 2022. On average, to cover your living expenses in Germany you will need around 934 euros per month (around $906 US dollars ) or 11,208 euros per year (around $10,876 US dollars ).

1. The prices for food, accommodation, bills, clothes and entertainment are basically in line with the EU average.
2. Your monthly rent is your largest expense in Germany,
3. If you’re planning to study and live as an international student in Germany, it’s good to know and have accurate expectations about the cost of living in Germany.

This article covers all the details you need to know.

Is 2000 euros enough in Berlin?

is 2000 Euros enough to live a decent life in Berlin for a couple ?, Berlin forum lalit.jethani 04 January 2019 08:04:55 Hi All, I work in India with Microsoft and have a offer of around 77000 Euros / year from Berlin based startup. I did the Tax calculations and after all taxes, my Net in hand per month would be around 4200 Euros. I am married and would be moving with my life. I have around 8 years experience in software.I am planing to save around 2000 Euros per month after all my expenses.

I checked on Numbeo, the cost of living for a a couple comes around 1900 Euros. Just wanted to check, Is my assumption accurate ? is around 2000 euros good enough for a couple to live ? I don’t drink alcohal and do not party much. Eating out on weekends, Cinema, Gym etc is what I am looking at. I am also a budding Stand up comedian, so would be trying my hand in English comedy as well in Berlin.

TominStuttgart 04 January 2019 12:38:27 There is no yes or no correct answer to your question. What is sure is that this is a well above average income in Germany. How much you save will depend on your lifestyle. But saving that much a month is very ambitious.

It depends on your priorities. The biggest monthly expense will undoubtedly be for accommodation. Do you want to live in the smallest possible place in the worse neighborhood to save money or spend more and live comfortably? There is always a trade-off. Many people calculate their fixed monthly cost and then underestimate the one-off things or irregular expenditures like furniture, gifts, a new TV etc.

But there are always extra costs I congratulate anyone who has the discipline to regularly save but one should be realistic and not have it become an obsession so that one does without normal things just to save a bit more. As far as doing comedy; good luck.

You will need to verify if the conditions of your visa allow you to earn money in other fields than the one it was specifically issued for. But until one gets a certain level of fame, there is not likely much if any money in it anyway. There are often open-mike events at clubs where one can get experience but don’t expect more than a free drink and a meal as payment.

beppi 04 January 2019 18:52:34 It is entirely unheard of and unrealistic to expect to regularly save half of your earnings!I say this even though you are offered a far above average salary and only two mouths to fed from it.It may be possible under such circumstances, but why would you want to move to an expensive place and earn well and then live like a pauper?!?Especially in the first few months, when you still need expensive temporary housing or have a rented place to furnish, speak little or no German and don’t know where to buy things at reasonable prices, you will need far more than later on! Also, let me tell you from own experience that homesickness is an expensive hobby: Ethnic food is universally costly (and this includes your everyday Curry) and a trip home even more so.

The faster you adjust yourself to fried sausages with Sauerkraut and mashed potatoes and weekend trips to the Spreewald (great pickled gherkins there!), the cheaper you will live! lalit.jethani 04 January 2019 19:10:11 Thanks a lot for the reply. I really appreciate it. I am ok to spend more money in the first few months.

My only thought process is, If I am able to live a good life in 2000 Euros per month, what is the need to live like a pauper ? So, are you saying that 2000 Euros is still less for 2 people to have a good time in Berlin ? My calculation is : 1000 Euros accomodation + 300 euros groceries + 300 euros weekend outing + 200 Euros commute to work + 200 extra.

• Am I too conservative ? beppi 04 January 2019 19:54:46 How much you spend on a “god life” depends entirely on your definition of this “good life”.
• I know people who are happy with below EUR1000/month (per person) and others who spend EUR10000 and still want more!The official poverty line (survival limit) is currently at EUR750/month (per person).

With your EUR1000/month, you will not live “like a pauper” (I exaggerated a bot there), but it will not be a life of luxuries. With the full EUR2000/month you’d have far more room for that! beppi 04 January 2019 20:05:07 Some more comments on your budget:- EUR1000 accommodation: At EUR750 rent and EUR250 for heating, electricity and other utilities (a typical ratio), you will find a flat but not the best one.- EUR300 groceries: If that is meant per person (so EUR600 in total) it is realistic, but does not include ethnic food and restaurant meals.- You need another, similar amount for other expenses like toiletries, clothes, etc.- EUR300 weekend outing: Only one weekend outing per month for the two of you??? A weekend trip further away, say Paris or Venice (which you DEFINITELY want to see!) will cost you EUR600 or more.

1. EUR200 extra: A nice Indian restaurant meal for two (with wine) will cost you half of that, a flower buquet for your wife’s birthday a quarter of it.
2. You decide how much you spend or don’t spend on such things – but experience shows that one spends more on such things than budgeted (and that is not a bad thing, especially if you have the money!).

lalit.jethani 05 January 2019 06:46:41 Thanks a lot for the reply. you really gave a realistic view. I really appreciate your response.My assumption was EUR 300 for groceries for 2 people. EUR 300 for outing I calculated for a month for outing. I mean outing within Berlin. But all in all, I got your point. To be frank, My aim is to pay of my loans and get free of corporate rat race. I believe the 3 most harmful addictions in this world are Drugs, Carbs and Salaries.For that reason only I was calculating a disposable income of 2000 Euros / month and I needed 18 months to get rid of the loan.

1. My plan was to start my venture and focus a lot on stand up comedy, As Comedy Scene in India is booming.
2. Because of my liabilities, I am unable to think outside of 9 to 5 job.
3. But Thanks a lot for the eye opener.
4. I will reject the offer in this case, As I do not want to float in the corporate life loop forever.

beppi 05 January 2019 09:49:50 Why should you reject that job?!? It is an excellent opportunity and a salary you are unlikely to get anywhere else! lalit.jethani 05 January 2019 15:19:22 Thanks a lot for the opinion.Its preety easy to get jobs with these kind of salaries.

• I work in a high profile company and any employer would love to have me onboarded.
• I am constantly getting calls from German companies with a salary bracket of 70 – 80k Euros / Annum.
• Its a question of what I want, and by looking at the expense, I believe my plan of saving 2000 Euros will go into vain.

TominStuttgart 06 January 2019 14:31:45 Likely food costs are 300 Euro per person even if you cook your own food. One can easily pay 1000/month for rent these days for a small to mid-sized apartment but then need to pay additionally a few hundred for electricity and gas.

• You are leaving out health insurance (a sizable cost and not employer provided like at big companies in the US) and insurances for things like car, property etc.
• Then there are telephone and internet cost.
• Everyone in Germany also has to pay a fee for usage of TV and radio – even if you don’t own them.

In the end there are MANY miscellaneous costs that come every month – in addition to occasional one-time or once a year expenses. Most people greatly underestimate the amount of money they really need until they see their monthly bank statement. With the salary you mention it would not be impossible to save say € 1000/month maybe even more but 2000 simply sounds over-ambitious.

1. And again about the comedy; if it’s your passion then go for it.
2. But until one makes it big and is say a regular on TV, then there is very little money in it.
3. And it is very competitive.
4. It’s a bit like acting.
5. Of course there are Hollywood stars that make millions per movie.
6. But for every one of those, there are a hundred who never make it beyond performing for free in local theater groups, or waiting tables or doing other lousy jobs waiting for that big break that never comes.

Without a lot of talent one has little chance and even with talent one might never go anywhere. One speculating they will somehow make a career in comedy is like thinking you’ll hit the jackpot in the lottery.; could happen but don’t realistically count on it.

1. Beppi 06 January 2019 19:29:17 Note:Tom is a performing comedian and knows his stuff in this respect! lalit.jethani 06 January 2019 19:49:10 Guys, thanks a lot for the reply.
2. This will surely help me to take a decision based on my priorities.
3. I have calculated the net income of 4400 EUR after deducting Health insurance.

I used I think the realistic number of expense would be around 2500 – 2700 EUR.1300 (Rent + utilities) + 600 groceries + 400 (4 weekly outings in Berlin) + 200 (transport) + 200 Extra As far as stand up is concerned, I am taking it lightly only. I am in love with the art and want to produce genius jokes that work on a deeper level.

• A comedy that looks plain on surface but invokes a social issue awakening on deeper level.
• I know its difficult because of influx of so many comedians.
• TominStuttgart 07 January 2019 01:57:37 beppi wrote: Note:Tom is a performing comedian and knows his stuff in this respect! Well, I’m a professional clown and juggler and comedy is part of what I do but I am not really a stand-up comedian.

But I know how it is to be a performer and generally how the stand-up scene works. But who knows, maybe you are just the right person at the right time and connect and go somewhere in stand-up. Just don’t think of giving up your day job for it until you are certain it is not just a dream (and having confirmed your visa conditions will allow it as a primary income source). sand1512 28 July 2019 21:34:13 lalit.jethani wrote: So did you take the offer? If yes how is the expense. About me: I am offered 75000 Euros/annum, city: Frankfurt. I am currently living in India and saving around 900 Euros (Rs.68000) per month. I want to take this opportunity and I want to know how much I can save per month.

Since it’s been discussed in this thread, I assume it could be 1300 -1600 Euros. My estimate of expenditure is somewhat like yours, my wife and kid will join me after a year or so. GuestPoster49 24 August 2019 16:15:38 Hi Guys,I am wondering if 1600 euro enough as living expenses for a single person.Let’s say that I want to live in 1.5 apartment in area A or B, and I want to go out twice a week (go out in my dictionary means to eat out with friends or do some local activities).

also, this should include gym transportation and food.here are my calculations:1- 700 accommodation2- 400 groceries3- 100 transportation and mobile utilities4- 200 entertainments5- 200 unexpected expensestotal: 1600 please advice SimCityAT 25 August 2019 00:17:39 saeed.eldah wrote: Hi Guys,I am wondering if 1600 euro enough as living expenses for a single person.Let’s say that I want to live in 1.5 apartment in area A or B, and I want to go out twice a week (go out in my dictionary means to eat out with friends or do some local activities).

Also, this should include gym transportation and food.here are my calculations:1- 700 accommodation2- 400 groceries3- 100 transportation and mobile utilities4- 200 entertainments5- 200 unexpected expensestotal: 1600No need to start a new post. Thus your new post has been removed.SimCityATExpat Team please advice GuestPoster49 25 August 2019 11:34:47 SimCityAT wrote: saeed.eldah wrote: Hi Guys,I am wondering if 1600 euro enough as living expenses for a single person.Let’s say that I want to live in 1.5 apartment in area A or B, and I want to go out twice a week (go out in my dictionary means to eat out with friends or do some local activities).

also, this should include gym transportation and food.here are my calculations:1- 700 accommodation2- 400 groceries3- 100 transportation and mobile utilities4- 200 entertainments5- 200 unexpected expensestotal: 1600No need to start a new post. Thus your new post has been removed.SimCityATExpat Team please advice

• Thanks now I have a reply on the previous topic that I can’t reach!
• Thank you, guys!

beppi 25 August 2019 21:06:36 Depending on where these mysterious “areas A or B” are, your rental budget might be sufficient or too small.€200/month is enough for one night out per week, provided you do EITHER a few drinks at a bar OR a cinema movier and a restaurant meal, not both.

• Depending on your expectations, spending choices and how often you go out, you thgus might spend much more or less.
• Altogether, €1600/month (cash in the bank, after all taxes and deductions) is about the average income for a single person, so not too bad but also not luxurious.
• Note: This translates to about €2400/month gross income before deductions).

GuestPoster49 25 August 2019 22:41:31 beppi wrote: Depending on where these mysterious “areas A or B” are, your rental budget might be sufficient or too small.€200/month is enough for one night out per week, provided you do EITHER a few drinks at a bar OR a cinema movier and a restaurant meal, not both.

1. Thank you
2. the mysterious areas A or B (A close to the city center, B is the far one), and yes €1600/month after taxes.

beppi 25 August 2019 23:03:13 saeed.eldah wrote: the mysterious areas A or B (A close to the city center, B is the far one)

• Rents in Germany vary FAR more between regions than between centre and suburb of the same city.
• Thus without knowing where you intend to move, it is impossible to comment further.

: is 2000 Euros enough to live a decent life in Berlin for a couple ?, Berlin forum

Why is Berlin so cheap?

Why are the prices so cheap in Berlin? INVEST AND BUY PROPERTIES IN BERLIN News 12th June –

Between 1961 and 1989, the German capital city was a divided city and the Western part was an island in the Eastern side under the Soviet control. During this period the city did not make almost any progress in the properties’ maintenance and new building, especially in the Eastern side.1989-THE BERLIN WALL FALL: After this event a ‘gold rush’ in the real estate market was expected; however, the truth was that the city’s growth and modernization had been paralyzed during the years of division, and this standstill was even worse in the Soviet part, which was devastated and neglected.Immediately after the wall fall, the economy did not help and no new jobs were created and many people left the city. Therefore, thousands of properties were left empty and their prices collapsed: between 1994 and 2004 the property prices fell down around 30% in Berlin.• At the same time, the old buildings were being refurbished and renewed and new buildings were built. Such reconstruction process goes so slowly that it continues nowadays. Indeed, it is still possible to find uninhabitable buildings and plots without buildings in the heart of Berlin. This would be unconceivable in other European capital cities.Berlin and the whole Germany have taken almost 15 years to recover, to generate new jobs and to stop the exodus in Berlin. While the real estate prices fell down sharply, other European cities were living the ‘real estate boom’.After that, the prices remained still and it was from 2006 onwards, when Berlin started growing. The reason was that the rent prices were very cheap and the city started creating new jobs. The people slowly realized about these two facts and decided gradually to move to Berlin, to the point that Berlin became little by little the type of city that currently is, that is the capital city and one of the most desired metropolises in Europe. Furthermore, bearing in mind the leadership taken by the Government in the Euro zone crisis, we cannot hesitate that Berlin will keep on playing a main role as European city within the next few years. In fact, Berlin is currently experiencing the opposite situation, because the prices are growing until being similar to the prices in other province capitals in Germany and the many capital cities in Europe.

28th April 17th July 28th May : Why are the prices so cheap in Berlin?

Do people speak English in Berlin?

Are there any English speaking jobs in Germany? – In everyday life in Germany, you’ll soon realise that Germans certainly understand and speak English, yet are very reluctant to do so and prefer not to step out of their comfort zone to speak English.

• Over the past few years, though, you can see that at least the younger generation has become increasingly confident in speaking English.
• But a glance at the professional world also shows that there has been a noticeable shift in attitudes towards language in recent years.
• After all, German companies rely on IT experts from abroad and are thus expanding their German-speaking talent pool to include English-speakers.

Today, long-established companies still find it somewhat difficult to create English-language jobs and integrate it in the company; the situation is different in Berlin, however, where start-ups have already recognised and embraced the added value of international employees.

Is there a lot of English in Berlin?

The problem with bilingual status – Berlin, Germany’s most multicultural city, is already considered by its dwellers to be more or less bilingual. It’s possible to get by speaking English and knowing very little German. I speak fluent German after eight years here, but have certainly had brushes with residents from English-speaking countries who’ve been around for much longer and can barely rattle off their fruits and vegetables ( tomate doesn’t count). Pictured: A cardboard sign written in both English and German reflects the city’s growing bilingualism. Photo credit: Notes of Berlin English is the lingua franca in my kiez (neighborhood) in Neukölln, an area which is known for its Turkish and Arab communities, but continues to become more multicultural and also more gentrified.

I overhear lots of English, but also French, Italian, and Turkish about as often as sentences beginning with der die das, My next-door cafés are Greek and Spanish, the nearest bar is owned by a Brit. Around these parts, German knowledge varies, so English runs by default. Problematically, the increasing prevalence of English has made many Germans feel uncomfortable and linguistically displaced in their own capital.

Who could forget Health Minister Jens Spahn declaring how annoying English-speaking baristas are, calling Berlin a case of bungled integration stoked by ” elitist hipsters “. “How strange and unfamiliar in their own country it must feel to those, like my parents, who never learned English: They come to their capital and can no longer communicate in some restaurants there,” he wrote in 2017.

Spahn’s remarks reflect a larger, mainstream German debate on whether or not German cultural values are being sidelined, and the greater black-and-white thinking that introducing a second official language might wipe out the local one. A month after his op-ed was published, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) captured electoral victory, becoming part of the official parliamentary opposition on a campaign of xenophobic, anti-immigrant sentiment.

No matter what’s happening on the streets, official bilingualism for Berlin feels far from the national political agenda.

Is Berlin very cold?

Winters in Berlin – The coldest months of the year are normally December, January and February, The average lows are easily below freezing: -1.9ºC (28ºF) and temperatures are never higher than 5ºC (41ºF). The wettest season of the year is also winter. In December, there are over 11 rainy days a month, which are usually transformed into snowfall.

Is rent cheap in Berlin?

How much is the rent in Berlin? – The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Berlin ranges from €800 to €1200. A one-bedroom apartment is €1,150 per 72 square meter in Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin. The average rent for a 59 sq m apartment in Mitte and Wilmersdorf is more than €1,200 per month.

Which city pays the highest salary in Germany?

Berlin – one of the economic hubs of the world – The capital city of Germany offers some of the best employment opportunities in Berlin. It is one of the economic hubs of the world and attracts a growing number of expats each year that come in search of better career options.

The living costs in Berlin are higher than in other cities, however, the average salary is also significantly higher than in most German cities. Most companies in Berlin provide various employment benefits as well which helps to make life easier. Some of the thriving sectors in this city include manufacturing, energy, and technology.

There are also some good jobs to explore here in the tourism sector.

Can I get a job in Berlin without speaking German?

Finding Services in English – The city of Berlin, at least in its central districts, is very geared towards anglophones. And in fact, if you speak English, there’s not much that’ll be closed off to you. Whether you need to visit a doctor, find a hairdresser, rent a flat, or file your taxes, there are many services across the city that will help you out.

How many hours is a full-time job in Berlin?

Full-time and part-time contracts –

The standard full-time contract in Germany is 40 hours over a five-day week. The working week is Monday – Saturday, but most office jobs, of course, work on a Monday – Friday basis. Everything except bars, restaurants and hotels are closed on Sundays so unless you work in the service industry, you’re guaranteed that day off.

Is it hard to make friends in Berlin?

How To Make Friends In Berlin In 2022 So there I was in Berlin, completely alone. In the beginning, I kept myself busy touring the city, traveling, having long Skype dates with friends at home, and meeting up with Toronto buddies who happened to be visiting Berlin (strangely there were a large number of Torontonians in Berlin during my first summer here).

1. I sulked a lot in those first days.
2. Moving abroad is way different than taking a vacation.
3. Trying to grapple with the loads of German related administration was overwhelming.
4. Attempting to navigate the public transit was stressful.
5. Learning the language was not as fun as I thought.
6. I found myself pondering why I’d made such a massive life change, even more, contemplating my insanity at moving to Berlin under my particular circumstances.

Then a time came when I needed to focus on making friends in Berlin and fully embrace my new Berliner lifestyle. I forced myself out of my comfort zone and found different ways to meet new people. It took time and a fair amount of self imposed fearlessness (fake it until you make it!), but before I knew it, I had more friends than I ever needed.

I moved here in 2011 and in 2022, this still holds true. As daunting as it may seem and no matter how gruff Berliners may appear on the surface (we’re all familiar with the renowned “), if you put yourself out there and really are open to it, it’s quite easy to make new friends in Berlin. Here are my top ways to make new friends (both foreigners and locals!) when you move to the German capital.

If you move to Berlin and don’t know the language, one of the very first things you should do is enroll in a language class so you can better immerse yourself in the German culture. It will help make your transition easier (including finding a job) if you can communicate with Germans, well, in German.

• The great part about enrolling in a language class is that you can befriend your fellow classmates, who are most likely new to the country as well.
• You can study together or just hang out doing other things.
• You’ll share a common bond and can support one another as needed, especially when you find yourself missing home.

The other great thing is that once you have a basic command of whatever language you’re learning, you can begin speaking with locals and open up even more opportunities to forge new friendships. I started a one month German intensive course 2 months after I arrived in Berlin with,

1. Unfortunately, most of my classmates were young students from Spain and Italy who were only in Berlin for about four weeks.
2. While I made some new “temporary” friends, I didn’t establish any of the long-term relationships that I so desired.
3. But hey, my Spanish friends taught me to drink wine like “real” Spanish people do, mixing coke with red wine.

I still shudder when I think about having drank several glasses of that um unusual mix. The theme song from the famous American 1980’s sitcom Cheers sums it up perfectly – “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.” Whether it be a nearby bar, café or restaurant, find a place that you can call your own, where they know your name, how you take your coffee, or what type of wine you like to drink.

• It’s imperative that the place you choose is not touristy but more of a neighbourhood establishment where you can meet people who actually live in the area and who you’ll likely see again.
• I’d highly recommend checking out when of your local Kniepes.
• A visiting friend introduced me to a chilled out local wine bar shortly after I arrived in Berlin.

After a while, I jokingly came to refer to this place as my second home. I’d walk in, be hugged, kissed, and handed a glass of wine, all without saying a word. I then befriended the staff and through them was introduced to some German women who became close friends and even a guy that I sort of dated for a while – him and I are no longer sort of dating, but we’re actually still friends.

1. It wasn’t easy.
2. I can’t tell you how many nights when I walked into that bar alone.
3. It was embarrassing! Feigning confidence, I’d walk up to the bar, sip from my glass of wine, and smoke my cigarette while surveying the crowd around me.
4. I’m sure those who observed me thought me weird or even worse, ” looking for a good time ” but I persevered and kept going back until I started meeting people.

If you’re looking for love, there’s always online dating sites or apps (ahem Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, Hinge, etc.) but what about if you’re just looking to just make new friends and not hook-up (not that there’s anything wrong with that!)? I’ve always been a big fan of,

After moving to Berlin, I used Twitter’s search feature to find active local users like and, For the first while, I sat back and watched their conversations. Then through my rather intense stalking efforts, I discovered who they talked to and starting following them as well. With time, I became less shy and entered the fray of conversation, finding out what cool things there were to do that weekend, and when/where people were meeting.

For example, I met a bunch of people through a “burger tour” of Berlin that was organized by and, We met up every 2-3 weeks at a specific burger joint to chow down on burgers and meet other foodies. I’ve done the same with and managed to meet a number of people over the years using that platform as well.

Facebook Groups are another good one (for some reason Berliners love Facebook groups!?!?), with various groups like that are quite social and hold frequent events. People are also reporting luck with, where it’s not about dating or hooking up but making actual friends. You can also try – a brand new “family to family” experience platform, where a family can host another family to have a joint experience together.

This could be anything like a playground meetup, nature walk, pizza party at home, or any other activity of their choice. As the community in Berlin is so active, there’s always something going on for everyone – whether it be a party, conference, or even an impromptu with other Berlin newbies.

Another way to find locals in your area is to research blogs and websites for your chosen city. Before arriving in Berlin, I already knew that some of my favorite sites. I emailed them, tweeted them to ask for advice, and suggested meeting up. If you feel too shy to do that, at the very least, follow them on Facebook or Twitter to see what events they’re attending and if there’s an opportunity for you to attend and hopefully, meet as well.

Over time, I met or worked with various people from several local blogs. Another great tool is, You can search through their directory to find groups in your area like expat communities or groups of like-minded people with specific interests like dining out, going to movies, or attending live music events.

Recommended reading: We profile some of our favorite local meetups on this post,, I once went to a party on a boat and met up with a bunch of other and another time, I had fun on Canada Day when I attended a at, Another option is, an expat community with chapters all around the world including Berlin.

They hold monthly events where you can meet other people from abroad. Note, there is a fee to be part of Internations, so this option may not be for everyone. Meetups, however, tend to be free of charge. Join one of the many fitness studios around Berlin, where you can meet and bond with fellow health freaks.

• Try out such places as,, or if you’re really fancy, go somewhere like,
• Flexible programs like allow you to visit different venues around the city.
• Obviously, gyms are pretty much like bars, where men and women eagerly search for potential mates, be it for a one-night stand or a long-term relationship.

But for sure, especially if you’re in a women’s only gym (I used to belong to ), there is a high chance to meet other people and establish a long-term friendship. Other ways to meet new people? Join one of the more athletically oriented meetups, like running or hiking groups.

1. There are even badminton and floor hockey groups, the latter being especially appealing to Canadians like me.
2. Signup for classes at yoga studios, which are numerous around Berlin.
3. I know a lot of people who’ve developed friendships from participating in crossfit programs.
4. I’ve even heard of people making friends with fellow swimming enthusiasts while doing their morning laps.

I’ve met a lot of great people over the years simply by offering my time to those in need. It’s super fun, as I’ve not only friended fellow volunteers, but some of the people I’ve helped as well. And let’s be honest, in today’s COVID-19 world, we all need to connect on more human levels, now more than ever.

I’ve worked in the kitchens of refugee and homeless shelters with the and they’re absolutely lovely. You can find even more opportunities through and, Yes, there are some of us who want to draw a firm separation between work and play. When you leave work, you want to put thoughts about work behind you.

Besides, you already spend eight hours of your day with colleagues, so why would you willingly spend even more time with them? If you do go out with people from work, inevitably, you’ll end up gossiping about people or complaining about things. During these moments, it may be hard to relax as you fear that certain boundaries may be crossed.

1. I’ve worked at some pretty international companies, employing people from 50+ different countries.
2. We usually have a lot in common, besides work, so hanging out with one another happened naturally.
3. Aside from staying around for Friday nights beers, we’d go on our own for after work beers on other days, casual dinners, or fun events like go-carting.

I’ve met some of my very best friends from work, and years after leaving the company, maintain contact with them. If you get an invite from your colleagues, take them up on it and have a great time. We know this is way harder since the pandemic came around and remote work is more commonplace, but if you can connect with your colleagues safely, do try and go into the office sometimes.

Over the years I’ve done various food tours ( ) and met a lot of seriously cool people. Yes, sometimes the people in the group are tourists here on a visit (read about ), but many times, they’re locals looking to experience the city in a different way. The possibilities are endless and you need to do what works for you.

The ones I listed above are just what personally worked for me. Regardless of your situation, you need to be flexible and open-minded. There’s no time to be shy as you need to put yourself out there even when you feel the most uncomfortable. It might not be easy but with a positive attitude, patience, and time, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by a group of close friends.

Where do most foreigners live in Germany?

Number of foreigners in German federal states 2021 In 2021, North-Rhine-Westphalia had the most foreign nationals at over 2.8 million, followed by Bavaria with more than 2 million and Baden-Württemberg with around 1.89 million.

Is Berlin a good place to live in?

Final thoughts on living in Berlin as an expat – Berlin is definitely one of the best places to live in Germany, Living in Berlin is a great option for expats. The city is rich in culture, history, amazing nightlife, great food, great art, and so much more.

Is life good in Berlin?

Good quality of life – If you are looking for an enjoyable lifestyle, then you will thrive in Berlin. The city offers an excellent healthcare system, low crime rates, an efficient public transport system and a huge variety of activities to get yourself immersed into.

Is London or Berlin better to live?

Is Berlin better than London? – If you’re planning to move, Berlin would be a fantastic choice even though some travelers claim London is more exciting. The average salary in the two cities is similar, although Berlin boasts a higher quality of life than London.

Is Berlin a livable city?

Berlin is one of the top ten city matches for 30.8% of Teleport users. Sign up to see your personalized city data, salary and cost of living comparisons. Education.

Best university in ranking	Humboldt University of Berlin
University quality	0.54


Roksana Sicević