Germany
Germany is the EU's largest economy, offering an excellent infrastructure, a clear path to permanent residency for skilled professionals, and strong worker protections.
Renting in Germany — Expat Housing Guide
In Germany, expats can expect to pay around EUR 1700 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment in a main city, while outer districts are significantly cheaper at around EUR 900. When renting, a security deposit known as Kaution is required, which is capped at three months' cold rent. The deposit is held in a separate account and typically returned within 3-6 months of moving out, minus any documented damages.
Average Rents by City (2026)
| City | 1-bed (EUR/mo) | 2-bed (EUR/mo) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berlin | 1,200 | 1,700 | City centre; outer districts from €900 |
| Munich | 1,800 | 2,400 | Most expensive city in Germany |
| Hamburg | 1,400 | 1,900 | Major port city; strong demand |
| Frankfurt | 1,350 | 1,900 | Finance hub; high corporate demand |
💰 Deposit rules
Kaution (security deposit) capped at 3 months cold rent by §551 BGB. Held in a separate account and returned within 3–6 months of moving out minus documented damages.
🛡️ Tenant rights
Landlords routinely request a Schufa-Auskunft (credit report). Get a free annual copy at meineschufa.de. New arrivals without German credit history should supply payslips, employment contract, and a Mieterselbstauskunft. Sozialwohnungen (social housing) require a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) from the local Wohnungsamt. Waiting lists are 5–15 years in Berlin — not a realistic option for most expats.
Where to search for rentals
Typical documents landlords require
- ✓ Passport or national ID
- ✓ Anmeldung (residence registration)
- ✓ Last 3 months payslips or bank statements
- ✓ Proof of income = 3× monthly rent
- ✓ Schufa credit report
- ✓ Previous landlord reference (if available)