Munich, Germany
Last updated on Aug 04, 2024
Summary: The population of Munich is 1.5 million people. Munich is a vibrant, modern city with a rich cultural heritage. Expats love the city's excellent public transportation system, its many parks and green spaces, its lively nightlife, and its proximity to the Alps. The weather in Munich is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to the mid-70s in the summer. The average cost of living in Munich for an expat is around $2,500 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $1,200 per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $1,800 per month.
What do I need to know about living in Munich?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Munich, they said:
"Do it! Munich is on the cusp of the Alps. Good ski areas are 1 hr. south of Munich. Lake Garda (for wind surfing, MTB, etc.) is 400 km south of Munich in Italy. Prague is a 4 hr. drive to the east. This is a safe, clean city," commented one expat who made the move to Munich.
"Munich is a great city for retirees, offering a high quality of life and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Before retiring in Munich, it is important to research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to consider the language barrier, as most people in Munich speak German. Additionally, it is important to research the visa requirements for retirees, as well as the tax implications of living in Germany. Finally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of Munich, as this will help you to integrate into the local community," remarked one expat living in Munich, Germany.
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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:
"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," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.
"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.
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," wrote a member in 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," commented one expat who made the move to Munich.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in 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," said one expat who made the move to 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," 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:
"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," commented one expat who made the move to Munich.
"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 living in Munich, Germany.
How do I meet people in Munich?
When we asked people living in Munich about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"www.toytownmunich.com It's a forum dedicated to English-speaking expats in Munich. There you get a lot of first-hand information regarding English-speaking medical professionals, exchanging info about where to make the best of a long-weekend, etc," said one expat in Munich.
"Expats in Munich often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in Munich," said one expat who made the move to Munich.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
What should I bring when moving to Munich?
People living in Munich were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:
"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," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.
"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," said one expat in Munich.
Where should I setup a bank account in Munich?
We asked expats in Munich what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:
"Munich is a great city for retirees, offering a high quality of life and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Before retiring in Munich, it is important to research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to consider the language barrier, as most people in Munich speak German. Additionally, it is important to research the visa requirements for retirees, as well as the tax implications of living in Germany. Finally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of Munich, as this will help you to integrate into the local community," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.
"No. When I got here as a student, I worked with the Volksbank because they had a free account for students. What I didn't realize was that I could not use this Volksbank service in any other city. It's not like in the US when, for example, you have a Wells Fargo and it is irrelevant in which Wells Fargo you go to in another city or state. I eventually switched to Postbank because of their online services and CashGroup membership," said one expat in Munich.
Will I be able to find a job in Munich?
When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Munich, they reponded:
"Foreigners in Munich often work in a variety of industries, including hospitality, retail, manufacturing, and technology. Many foreigners also work in the service industry, such as restaurants, hotels, and transportation. Additionally, there are many opportunities for foreigners to work in the education sector, such as teaching English or other languages. Other popular jobs for foreigners in Munich include working in finance, marketing, and IT," wrote one member in Munich.
"Mostly hi-tech and IT. To find new jobs, you got to use the internet or the employment office website (Arbeitsamt)," remarked one expat who made the move to Munich.
What is life like in Munich?
When we asked people living in Munich what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Apparently Munich has the highest number of single households in Germany. Family is no. 1, then friends and socializing. The English Garden attracts leisure walks in all months and of course beer garden visits in summer or when the sun is shining (even in winter!)," remarked one expat who made the move to Munich.
"Munich is a great city for expats and digital nomads, offering a high quality of life and plenty of opportunities for work and leisure. The city is known for its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and world-class universities. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many museums and galleries to taking part in the city's famous Oktoberfest celebrations. Munich is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. With its excellent infrastructure and high quality of life, Munich is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a new home," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.
What do expats in Munich appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Munich appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, which includes a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Munich is also known for its Oktoberfest celebrations, which attract visitors from all over the world. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Finally, Munich is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who are always happy to help out newcomers," remarked one expat living in Munich, Germany.
What do expats find most challenging?
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Munich is the language barrier. Although many people in the city speak English, the majority of the population speaks German, and it can be difficult for expats to communicate with locals without a good grasp of the language. Additionally, the local culture is quite traditional and conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more formal social norms. Finally, Munich is a very expensive city, and expats may find it difficult to find affordable housing and other necessities," said one expat in Munich.
Is there a lot of crime in Munich?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Munich is generally considered to be a safe city, with low levels of crime. However, like any major city, there are some areas where crime is more common. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are the most common types of crime in Munich, and visitors should take precautions to protect their belongings. Violent crime is relatively rare in Munich, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and take sensible safety precautions," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Munich accepting of differences?
"Munich is not a cosmopolitan town like say Berlin or London. Munich attracts a lot of high-tech people, as a result, there is racial diversity, but not culturally diverse. Munich is liberallly run (SPD), but Bavaria is conservative (CSU/CDU). I am a person of color and feel comfortable and welcome here," explained one expat living in Munich, Germany.
"Munich is a diverse city with a variety of cultures and backgrounds represented. People in Munich are generally accepting of differences and are welcoming to people from all walks of life. The city is known for its open-mindedness and tolerance, and there are many opportunities for people of different backgrounds to come together and celebrate their differences," said one expat in Munich.
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What are the schools in Munich like?
"Munich is rather right on housing, if you want to avoid that your child becomes a long-distance commuter check very early for housing," remarked one expat living in Munich with children attending Bavarian International School.
"Munich is home to a number of excellent international and bilingual schools. The International School of Munich (ISM) is one of the best international schools in the city. It offers a comprehensive education in English for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. The Munich International School (MIS) is another top international school in Munich. It offers a bilingual education in English and German, with a focus on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The John F. Kennedy School is a bilingual school in Munich that offers a comprehensive education in both English and German. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. The International School Augsburg (ISA) is a bilingual school in Munich that offers a comprehensive education in both English and German. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. The International School of Düsseldorf (ISD) is a bilingual school in Munich that offers a comprehensive education in both English and German. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities," said one expat in Munich with children at .
What are the pros and cons of living in Munich?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Munich responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Munich appreciate the city's high quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and vibrant cultural scene. They also enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces, as well as its proximity to the Alps. On the downside, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Munich to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak German," said one expat.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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What type of social life can someone expect in Munich?
When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Munich, they replied:
"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Munich typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people and make friends, such as joining local clubs and organizations, attending cultural events, and taking part in outdoor activities. Munich is also home to a large expat community, so it is easy to find people with similar interests and backgrounds. Additionally, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes where people can socialize and make new connections," remarked one expat in Munich.
"Munich is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to enjoy. The city is known for its beer gardens, which are popular spots for locals and tourists alike. Munich also has a thriving music scene, with many live music venues and festivals throughout the year. The city is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors," commented one expat who moved to Munich.
What advice to expats in Munich have about housing?
"Expats in Munich advise to research the different neighborhoods and areas of the city before committing to a rental agreement. It is also important to be aware of the cost of living in Munich, as it is higher than in many other cities in Germany. Additionally, it is recommended to look for an apartment with a balcony or terrace, as outdoor space is a luxury in the city. Lastly, it is important to be aware of the rental laws in Germany, as they are different from those in other countries," said one expat.
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," remarked one expat in Munich.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Munich?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Munich can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, public health insurance is available to those who are employed or studying in Germany, and is usually more affordable than private health insurance. Private health insurance can be more expensive, but may offer more comprehensive coverage. Additionally, some employers may offer health insurance as part of their benefits package, which can help to reduce the cost," commented one expat who moved to Munich.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Is the cost of living in Munich high?
We asked people about the cost of living in Munich, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Munich is generally considered to be high. Rent prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Munich, Germany can range from around $1,000 to $2,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Munich can cost around $20 USD per person," mentioned an expat living in Munich.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Munich?
"In order to visit Munich, a visitor must obtain a visa from the German Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, or study. The application process for a visa includes submitting a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the German Embassy or Consulate. In order to live in Munich, Germany, a person must apply for a residence permit. The application process for a residence permit includes submitting a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, proof of health insurance, proof of sufficient financial resources, and any other documents required by the German Embassy or Consulate. The residence permit is usually valid for a period of one to three years, depending on the purpose of the stay," commented one expat living 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," said one expat.
About the Author
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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