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Moving to Munich, Germany | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Munich, Germany

Moving to Munich, Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Nov 20, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Munich, Germany for its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene. With its world-class universities, museums, and galleries, Munich is an attractive destination for those seeking an international lifestyle. The city also offers a wide range of job opportunities, making it an ideal place for expats to find work. Additionally, Munich is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, as well as its many festivals and events, making it a great place to live and explore.

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What do I need to know before moving to Munich?

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

"Munich is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a high quality of life. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Munich is higher than in many other German cities. It is important to research the local housing market and to budget accordingly. Expats should also be aware that the majority of the population speaks German, so it is important to learn the language before moving to Munich. Additionally, Munich is a very safe city, but it is still important to take the necessary precautions to ensure personal safety. Finally, Munich is a great city for outdoor activities, so expats should take advantage of the city's many parks and recreational areas," said one expat in Munich.

"Plan further ahead than the 90 days we did. Your driver's license is only good for 180 days if you live here. Plan ahead. IF you live in a state with full reciprocity it will be cheap and easy to get a German license. California doesn't have reciprocity so you have to do everything. Minimum cost will be 600 euros. (You pay for the tests every time your take them, you must pay a school to have a car to test in, Driving exam will be in German. Written is 80 driving is 160 plus car and driver.) Bring original documents, Especially if you are working of credentials. We also needed a postulated marriage certificate to claim married status for taxes. Would try to find a place near any job. Munich is pretty flat and bike infrastructure is good," said one expat who made the move to Munich.

How do I find a place to live in Munich?

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

"Live near my wife's work, so the commute is walk-able, 1 mile, even in winter. We are on the subway line so city center is 15 minutes away. Used an online search to find it," said one expat who made the move to Munich.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Munich is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Popular websites such as ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht, and Immowelt are great for finding apartments, houses, and rooms for rent. Additionally, there are many apps such as Nestpick, Spotahome, and Roomster that can help you find a place to live in Munich. It is also possible to find a place to live through local newspapers, real estate agents, and word of mouth," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Munich?

"Renting a flat. I think this is very common in Munich. 40% of the population is from outside of Bavaria or Germany. Not too many US expats. But there are a couple of US expat groups," remarked one expat who made the move to Munich.

"Expat homes and apartments in Munich are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many apartments come with balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city. Expat homes and apartments are usually well-equipped with modern appliances and amenities, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers. Munich is known for its excellent public transportation system, so many expats choose to live in apartments that are close to a train or bus station," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.

What is the average cost of housing in Munich?

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

"Lower here than the SF bay area. Cost is area dependent although Munich has the highest rents in Germany. Rents are now around 1,000 euro for a 2 room apartment (living room and bedroom) cold. You may have to install your own kitchen and lighting. Buying in our area is about 5,000 euro per quadra meter (10,75 sq. ft.) We don't have a car, rent as needed, saves 60-100 per month on garage fees," remarked one expat in Munich, Germany.

"The cost of housing in Munich is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from €1,000 to €2,500 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center can cost around €800 to €1,200 per month. Buying a property in Munich is also expensive, with the average price for a single-family home being around €4,000 to €5,000 per square meter," said one expat in Munich.

Should I buy or rent a home in Munich?

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

"Buying a home in Munich can be a great investment, as the city is known for its strong economy and high quality of life. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Munich, as it is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Renting a home in Munich can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to enjoy the city without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can give you the flexibility to move to a different area of the city if your needs change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Munich depends on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat in Munich.

What should I pack when moving to Munich?

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

"We didn't bring much to Munich other than clothes and bikes. Nothing we needed here would have been worth the cost and hassle of shipping," commented one expat who made the move to Munich.

"When moving to Munich, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the winters can be quite cold. It is also a good idea to bring a raincoat and umbrella, as the city experiences a fair amount of precipitation throughout the year. Additionally, it is recommended to bring comfortable shoes, as the city is quite walkable. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other paperwork required for the move," remarked one expat in Munich, Germany.

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Munich?

We asked people in Munich 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!:

"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Munich. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to show respect for them. For example, it is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to make an effort to learn some basic phrases," remarked one expat in Munich, Germany.

Why do people move to Munich?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Munich, they responded:

"Munich is an attractive destination for expats due to its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its strong economy, low unemployment rate, and high salaries, making it an ideal place to live and work. Munich is also home to a diverse range of international companies, providing expats with plenty of job opportunities. Additionally, the city is renowned for its beautiful architecture, stunning parks, and world-class museums, making it a great place to explore and enjoy. Finally, Munich is a safe and welcoming city, with a strong sense of community and a friendly atmosphere," commented one expat who moved to Munich.

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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.

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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

How are healthcare services Munich?

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

"Munich offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. Munich also has a number of specialized medical centers that focus on specific areas of medicine, such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, Munich has a number of pharmacies, health insurance companies, and other health-related services. Munich also has a number of medical research centers and universities that offer medical education and research opportunities," stated one expat who made the move to Munich.

What are medical services in Munich like?

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

"Munich offers a wide range of medical services for its residents. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide comprehensive care for a variety of medical needs. Munich also has a number of specialized medical facilities, such as cancer centers, fertility clinics, and rehabilitation centers. Additionally, Munich is home to a number of medical research centers and universities that offer advanced medical training and research opportunities. Munich also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide access to medications and medical supplies," said one expat.

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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