🏠 Housing — Germany

How difficult is it to find student housing in Germany?

The difficulty depends heavily on the city. Munich is the hardest and most expensive, followed by Frankfurt, Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne. Smaller cities such as Jena, Chemnitz, Magdeburg, Siegen, Halle or Cottbus are usually easier and cheaper. DAAD notes that students pay around €489 on average for accommodation, while a room in a shared flat can cost around €790 in Munich and around €328 in Jena.

The main problem is timing. Many international students wait until they receive their visa or final admission before searching seriously. In Germany, that is often too late. In competitive cities, students should apply for dormitories immediately after admission and start searching for private rooms at least 2 to 4 months before arrival.

Student dormitories in Germany

Student dormitories are usually managed by the local Studierendenwerk. They are popular because they are cheaper than private housing, usually close to campus and often include utilities. According to the German National Association for Student Affairs, the average monthly rent in student halls is about €306 including additional costs, but only around 18 percent of students live in dormitories.

Typical dormitory price range:

• Small dorm room: €220 to €400 per month
• Studio or private dorm apartment: €350 to €650 per month
• Expensive cities or new private-style residences: €500 to €900 per month

DAAD also provides a dormitory finder with information, addresses and application details for many student halls across Germany.

Private housing and shared flats

Most students who do not get a dormitory rent a room in a WG. This is the most common private option for students. You get your own bedroom and share the kitchen, bathroom and bills. Prices vary strongly:

• Munich: often €650 to €900+
• Berlin: often €500 to €800+
• Frankfurt and Hamburg: often €550 to €800
• Cologne and Düsseldorf: often €450 to €700
• Leipzig, Dresden, Jena, Magdeburg, Chemnitz: often €250 to €500

A private studio is more expensive and harder to secure without German documents, income proof or a guarantor. Students should expect around €700 to €1,200+ in large cities and €450 to €800 in smaller cities.

Best platforms to find housing in Germany

Use several platforms at the same time:

• Studierendenwerk of your city: best for official dormitories.
• DAAD Dormitory Finder: useful for international students.
• WG-Gesucht: the most important platform for shared flats. WG-Gesucht describes itself as a marketplace for shared apartments, flats and houses, with very high monthly traffic.
• ImmobilienScout24: private apartments and studios.
• Immowelt and Immonet: private rentals.
• Kleinanzeigen: cheaper local rooms, but scams are common.
• University housing offices and international student Facebook groups.

Tips for international students

Prepare a short German or English message introducing yourself, your programme, budget, arrival date and whether you can provide deposit and documents. Never send money before verifying the landlord, contract and address. Ask for a live video viewing if you are abroad. Also remember that you need a legal address for Anmeldung, which is essential for your residence permit, bank account and health insurance.

Final advice

Germany offers affordable education, but housing can be stressful. Apply early, accept temporary housing if needed and be flexible with location. Living 20 to 40 minutes from campus is normal in major cities. If you need help choosing a city, comparing housing options or preparing your student application, we can help you plan the process step by step.

Frequently asked questions

This is starter guidance and changes often — always confirm on the official source before applying.