Moving to a new country is an exciting chapter of life. Be it for work, education, or personal reasons, it is a chance to start fresh in a new place. But, this opportunity comes with its own challenges – the biggest of all being choosing the right country to move to.
With efficient public transport and affordable cost of living, Germany is a top contender for potential expats looking to move abroad. In addition to excellent job opportunities in cities like Munich and Berlin, this Western European country boasts stunning landscapes where forests, rivers, and mountains intersect.
Read our blog to discover the pros and cons of living in Germany and decide if this is the right relocation for you.
Pros of Living in Germany
There are abundant benefits that come with living in this Western European country. Here are some of them.
Low Cost of Living
The monthly cost of living in Germany averages between €1,698 and €3,561, making it comparatively cheaper than its Western European counterparts such as the UK, France, and Belgium. This is also true of Value Added Tax (VAT) which is 19% in Germany compared to countries such as Portugal and Greece, where it ranges between 23 to 24%.
Depending upon one’s lifestyle and the region, the cost of living in Germany varies. Even so, relatively lower consumer prices make Germany a good place to live.
Some of the biggest living costs such as housing, childcare, and public transport are considerably cheaper in Germany. As such, a lot of British citizens are moving to Germany in the aftermath of Brexit.
Excellent Work Opportunities
Germany offers excellent job prospects for expats considering the move. Not only is the rate of unemployment extremely low, but the increasing number of English-speaking jobs in German cities also removes the language barrier.
The German economy is the largest in Europe offering average salaries that are 9% higher than that of the UK. Combined with a lower cost of living, working in Germany progressively improves financial stability and well-being.
Quality of Life
With excellent infrastructure and a systematic mass transit system, this developed country is clean and orderly. With flexible working hours and excellent recreational opportunities, Germany offers a good work-life balance.
In the Annual Best Countries Report 2023 with findings from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, Germany ranked 9th for the highest quality of life in the world.
Healthcare
One of the biggest pros of living in Germany is the highly developed and modern health care system. The hospitals here are equipped with cutting-edge technology and friendly and efficient staff who can converse in English, removing the language barrier in your hour of need.
From analysing ultrasound images to improving diagnostics, artificial intelligence is transforming German healthcare. This is an important factor influencing global mobility.
Safety
Germans place a high value on law and order. Due to its strict rules and regulations, the crime rate is low, making Germany a good place to live. The German government values the safety of its citizens and visitors.
According to the Global Peace Index, Germany ranks 16th out of 163 countries for peaceful conditions of living.
Cons of Living in Germany
Moving to a new place presents its own set of challenges. Are you prepared to embrace the ones Germany presents?
Culture Shock
One of the biggest challenges when moving to a new country is culture shock. Germans usually prefer socialising in small groups and sticking with childhood friends. Expats initially find Germans to be quite reserved. However, as you settle in you will realise that this is not personal.
Engaging in the local culture in Germany will not only help you settle in but will also encourage locals to warm up to you. Be sure to participate in Oktoberfest in Deutschland.
Language Barrier
Although most Germans can speak English fluently, they prefer to use their mother tongue. The language barrier can pose a challenge for expats looking to move to Germany. Since English has roots as a Germanic language, most English speakers find German a relatively easy language to learn.
Embrace the fun of learning a new language and you’ll be surprised how Germans open up to you.
Bureaucracy
In Germany, there are standard procedures by which things operate. Strict rules and regulations can sometimes overwhelm expats. However, although it takes time to get things done, German laws ensure that they are done correctly.
Patience is a virtue you’ll learn to master in Germany.
Weather
The weather in Germany is mostly grey. The wet and cool climate is essential for maintaining the lush Bavarian forests allowing you to enjoy activities such as hiking. You will also appreciate the warm weather more during the summer months.
Is Germany a Good Place to Live?
Germany is an exciting country to live in. From excellent work opportunities to improved quality of life, living in this Western European country comes with abundant rewards. The initial challenges it presents will help you grow as an individual.
Are you excited for the adventure? Our international moving guide will help you prepare for this new life chapter.
