×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany | Digital Nomad Exchange
Digital Nomad Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 22, 2023

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.

VRBO
VRBO
VRBO
VRBO

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:

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

"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 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," said one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Germany. If you're moving to Germany, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Germany.

Homelike

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Germany. If you're moving to Germany, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Germany.

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," said one expat in 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 in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

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," remarked one expat 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," replied a member in 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.)," commented one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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," remarked one expat who made the move to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

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," commented one expat who moved to Nordrhein-Westfalen.

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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," wrote 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," said one expat living in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany.

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.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Digital Nomads Nordrhein-WestfalenNordrhein-Westfalen Guide

Digital nomads and expats talk about what it's like living in Nordrhein-Westfalen.

Digital Nomad Life Nordrhein-Westfalen Living in Nordrhein-Westfalen

More about what it's like living in Nordrhein-Westfalen.

Germany Forum Germany Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Germany on our Germany forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Contribute to Germany Network Contribute
Help others in Germany by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Germany.

Expat Healthcare Advice in GermanyHealthcare & Health Insurance in Germany

Digital Nomads in Germany offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Germany.

Real Estate in GermanyRentals in Germany

Rentals in popular cities and towns in Germany.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute to Germany Network Contribute
Help others in Germany by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Germany.

VRBO
VRBO

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides