Table of Contents
Best Cities to Study in Germany for International Students
Germany offers over 400 higher education institutions spread across vibrant, diverse cities—each with its own personality, cost of living, job market, and cultural atmosphere. For international students, choosing the right university is only half the equation. Selecting the right city to live and study in Germany can significantly impact your daily life, future career, and overall experience.
Whether you’re looking for affordability, job opportunities, or a multicultural environment, this guide will help you decide how to choose the right city in Germany for your studies, based on the factors that matter most to non-EU and EU students alike.
Why the City You Study In Matters in Germany
More Than Academics—It’s About Life
While most German universities offer a strong academic foundation, the city around them can either enrich or limit your experience. Factors such as living costs, housing availability, public transport, language accessibility, and part-time job options all vary greatly between cities.
Post-Study Plans Depend on Location
Choosing a city with strong industry ties in your field can make a huge difference when it comes to internships and job placement. For example, Munich offers more IT and engineering roles, while Berlin is a hotspot for startups and the creative industry.
Top Factors to Consider When Choosing a City in Germany for Studies
1. Cost of Living in Germany
Some cities in Germany are significantly more affordable than others. Living costs include rent, transport, food, and general expenses. Public universities don’t charge tuition, but your monthly living expenses will vary.
| City | Avg. Rent (Shared/Furnished Room) | Monthly Living Cost (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Berlin | €500–€750 | €1,000–€1,300 |
| Munich | €600–€900 | €1,200–€1,500 |
| Leipzig | €300–€500 | €800–€1,000 |
| Aachen | €350–€600 | €900–€1,100 |
| Hamburg | €500–€800 | €1,100–€1,400 |
| Karlsruhe | €350–€550 | €900–€1,100 |
Cities in eastern Germany (like Leipzig or Dresden) tend to be cheaper than western or southern cities (like Munich or Stuttgart).
2. Job and Internship Opportunities
Some cities offer far better part-time jobs and post-study work options due to proximity to major industries:
- Berlin: Startups, tech, media, NGOs
- Munich: Engineering, automotive, finance
- Frankfurt: Banking, business services
- Stuttgart: Automotive (Mercedes-Benz, Porsche)
- Hamburg: Logistics, media, international trade
If you plan to stay and work in Germany after your studies, choose a city with a strong job market in your field.
3. Language Accessibility
In larger cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt, it’s easier to get by with English—especially in academic and tech environments. Smaller cities often expect stronger German skills in daily life.
If you’re new to the German language, living in a city with a higher concentration of international students may make your transition smoother.
4. Student Housing Availability
Securing student accommodation can be difficult in larger cities due to high demand. Many students face long waiting lists for dorms or are forced to rent private rooms that don’t offer Anmeldung (official registration)—which is critical for visa, banking, and insurance.
Cities like Leipzig, Aachen, and Dresden offer easier housing options, while Berlin and Munich are among the most competitive.
Best Cities in Germany for International Students
Below is a closer look at the top cities for international students, each with its unique strengths.
Berlin: Germany’s Cultural and Startup Capital
Why Study in Berlin
Berlin offers a vibrant multicultural environment, top-ranked universities like Humboldt University, Freie Universität, and TU Berlin, and a massive international student community.
- Over 180 nationalities are represented.
- Affordable public transport and many English-taught programs.
- Thriving tech and creative job market.
Downsides
- Difficult rental market with rising costs.
- Long waiting lists for student dorms.
- Some landlords refuse to offer Anmeldung.
Tip: Providers like KUMMUNI offer furnished student accommodation in Berlin with proper contracts and Anmeldung support, helping international students navigate the housing crisis legally and efficiently.
Munich: Excellence in Engineering and Business
Why Study in Munich
Home to LMU Munich and TU Munich, this city attracts students interested in engineering, IT, and business. It also offers close proximity to global companies like BMW, Siemens, and Allianz.
- Strong job prospects after graduation.
- High academic standards.
- Excellent infrastructure.
Downsides
- Highest cost of living in Germany.
- Very competitive housing market.
- Requires strong financial planning.
Leipzig: Germany’s Hidden Gem for Students
Why Study in Leipzig
Leipzig is one of the most affordable university cities in Germany. It’s rapidly growing in popularity and offers an artistic, alternative vibe with increasing academic recognition.
- Affordable rent and lifestyle.
- Good public transport.
- Home to Leipzig University, one of Germany’s oldest institutions.
Downsides
- Fewer international job opportunities.
- Smaller expat community.
Aachen: Engineering and Innovation Hub
Why Study in Aachen
RWTH Aachen is one of Europe’s top technical universities, making Aachen a magnet for future engineers and researchers.
- Lower living costs than bigger cities.
- Strong reputation in STEM fields.
- Easier housing market.
Downsides
- Quiet student life.
- Fewer entertainment options compared to Berlin or Munich.
Frankfurt: Business and Finance Gateway
Why Study in Frankfurt
Frankfurt is Germany’s financial capital, ideal for students in business, finance, and economics. It’s home to Goethe University and many international institutions.
- High job potential.
- Excellent transport connectivity.
- English is widely spoken.
Downsides
- High rent and general costs.
- Not as culturally diverse as Berlin or Hamburg.
Stuttgart: Ideal for Automotive and Mechanical Engineering
Why Study in Stuttgart
Home to Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, Stuttgart is perfect for students focused on automotive and industrial engineering.
- Many internships and industry connections.
- Practical learning environment.
- Research-heavy institutions.
Downsides
- Moderate to high cost of living.
- Less international in lifestyle.
Other Student-Friendly Cities Worth Considering
- Heidelberg: Beautiful historic city with a strong international reputation.
- Freiburg: Sustainable and eco-focused with high quality of life.
- Dresden: Affordable with a growing academic sector.
- Mannheim: Known for business and social sciences.
Checklist: How to Choose the Right City in Germany for Studies
Ask These Questions
- What is the cost of living in this city?
- Does the university offer programs in English or German?
- Are there internship opportunities in my field?
- Can I secure housing with Anmeldung?
- What is the job market like after graduation?
- How much support is there for international students?
Tips for International Students Moving to a New German City
Start Early
Apply for housing as soon as you receive your admission letter. Many students wait too long and struggle to find legal housing before arrival.
Visit University Forums and Groups
Join social media communities, university subreddits, or Facebook groups to learn more about the city from current students.
Use Official Resources
Check the city’s official website for newcomers. Many German cities have multilingual portals for international students with resources for Anmeldung, banking, insurance, and mobility.
The Right German City Can Shape Your Entire Study Experience
Choosing the right city to study in Germany is as important as selecting the right university. Think long-term: the cost of living, housing situation, career opportunities, and language accessibility will all impact your success and well-being.
Each city offers something different. Berlin and Munich provide international exposure and industry hubs; Leipzig and Aachen offer affordability and strong academic traditions. Your ideal city depends on your goals, lifestyle, and budget—so choose wisely and plan early.
