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Moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Dec 16, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany for its vibrant culture, excellent job opportunities, and high quality of life. The region is home to some of the country's most important cities, such as Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Dortmund, which offer a wide range of activities and attractions. Nordrhein-Westfalen is also known for its beautiful countryside, with its rolling hills, forests, and rivers. Additionally, the region is well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the continent.

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What do I need to know before moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Nordrhein-Westfalen, they said:

"Before moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen, you should become familiar with the legal requirements for residence, such as visa and registration requirements. You should research the cost of living in various cities of the state, and determine which areas might best suit your needs and lifestyle. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local culture, particularly around business and social etiquette. Make sure to investigate job opportunities in the area, as well as the local housing market and educational options. Additionally, it is important to understand the public transportation system so you can easily get around and make the most of your new home," remarked one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

"If you don't look European, don't move here, come here for a visit is OK. Although University education is inexpensive here, don't waste your time trying to get a degree here. The German university S-cks," explained one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

How do I find a place to live in Nordrhein-Westfalen?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"When looking for a place to live in Nordrhein-Westfalen, the first step is to determine where you would like to live. Consider factors such as ease of transportation, job opportunities, and cultural events when selecting a city or region. You can further narrow down the search area by exploring the different neighborhoods in each city. Once you've chosen the city and neighborhood, it’s time to look at the housing options. Research local housing listings online as well as through classified advertisements and real estate agents. Consider what type of housing would best meet your needs such as an apartment, single family home, or a furnished room. As you explore the housing options, consider if the housing is within your budget and if it offers the amenities you’re looking for. Finally, make sure that the rental agreement meets your needs and that you are allowed to stay for the stated duration," explained one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

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Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Nordrhein-Westfalen?

"Expat homes and apartments in Nordrhein-Westfalen are typically modern apartments, often with balconies overlooking a nearby park or city centre. The apartments are usually spacious and bright, with modern furniture and appliances, and access to plenty of local amenities. Expats that prefer a quieter lifestyle can also find smaller homes in suburban areas, although these are more expensive and harder to find. There are also many options for furnished or unfurnished apartments depending on personal preference and budget. The rent for expat housing is usually between 1000-1500 Euros per month depending on the size and location of the apartment," remarked one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

What is the average cost of housing in Nordrhein-Westfalen?

If you are thinking about moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Nordrhein-Westfalen is typically higher than other parts of Germany and varies across the region. Prices vary widely depending on location, size and condition of a property. Depending on the type of property you are looking for, prices range from around €800 per month to €2,500 per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

Should I buy or rent a home in Nordrhein-Westfalen?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Nordrhein-Westfalen, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Nordrhein-Westfalen depends on a variety of factors. Buying a home may be more beneficial in terms of having a long-term asset and investing in local real estate. However, it often comes with a large upfront cost, maintenance and other financial obligations, such as a mortgage. Renting may offer more flexibility in terms of contract length and accessibility. Additionally, renting can be a better option if you are living in the area temporarily or don’t have the budget to cover the purchase of a home. Ultimately, the decision should consider your budget and long-term goals," explained one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

What should I pack when moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen?

We asked people living in Nordrhein-Westfalen to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"1. Bring over-the-counter Rx 2. Bring any type of daily use consumer products, because they are expensive here," commented one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

"Clothing appropriate for the weather, raincoat and umbrella, toiletries, basic household supplies such as cleaning products and paper goods, kitchen items including dishes, cookware, and utensils, bedding and towels, appliances such as washing machine and vacuum, essential documents (visa, residence permit, insurance information, etc.), personal items such as books, photos, hobby supplies, electronic items such as cell phone, laptop, television, and computer accessories, banking/financial documents, and items for entertainment (books, board games, etc.)," remarked one expat in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Nordrhein-Westfalen?

We asked people in Nordrhein-Westfalen if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"In Nordrhein-Westfalen, it is generally considered polite to respect the personal space of others. Therefore, it is important to be consciously aware of one's body language and not to stand too close or to invade someone's personal space. It is also important to remember that activities or comments which might be acceptable in one's own culture may be considered offensive in Germany. For example, it is considered inappropriate to accept a compliment without acknowledging it. Furthermore, it is best to avoid criticizing or discussing religion or politics in public. Additionally, it is important to adhere to German dress codes and customs, even if one disagrees with them. Lastly, it is considered rude to use overly familiar terms with someone whom one has just met, as it is customary to wait until the other person has extended their permission to do so," explained one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

Why do people move to Nordrhein-Westfalen?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Nordrhein-Westfalen, they responded:

"Nordrhein-Westfalen is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent job opportunities, and high quality of life. The region is home to some of the world's leading companies, making it an ideal place for those looking to further their career. Nordrhein-Westfalen also offers a wide range of recreational activities, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding. The region is also known for its excellent educational system, with many universities and colleges offering a variety of courses. With its diverse population, Nordrhein-Westfalen is a great place to meet people from all over the world and make new friends," said one expat.

How are healthcare services Nordrhein-Westfalen?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Nordrhein-Westfalen, they replied:

"Nordrhein-Westfalen offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public health system is funded by the state and provides access to a variety of medical services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public system also covers the cost of prescription drugs and medical devices. Private health insurance is also available, which can provide additional coverage for services not covered by the public system. In addition, Nordrhein-Westfalen has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer centers, rehabilitation centers, and mental health centers, which provide specialized care for specific conditions," commented one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen.

What are medical services in Nordrhein-Westfalen like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Nordrhein-Westfalen, they replied:

"Nordrhein-Westfalen offers a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The region has a comprehensive network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of treatments and services. These include general medical care, specialized care, emergency services, and preventive care. The region also has a number of specialized medical centers that focus on specific areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. In addition, there are a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services. The region also has a number of pharmacies and health stores that provide a variety of medications and health products," commented one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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