An Overview of Living in Germany

It goes without saying that being at the heart of European industry and politics, Germany offers expats a high standard of living. Add to this sumptuous and varied scenery, stunning medieval towns and cities and generous salaries, it is unsurprising the country is hugely popular with expat workers.

Expats will find Germany lives up to its reputation of being clean, efficient and very welcoming. Aside from modern advances in technology and science, Germany is rich in culture and is understandably proud to be the birthplace of Bach, van Beethoven, and Wagner, to name a few of its most famous figures.

Germany is divided into 16 states each with its own distinctive traditions. German cities range from shining modern commercial hubs to ancient capitals of European culture and refinement. The capital Berlin, with a population of 3.5 million people, is Germany’s cultural heart; best known for its multi-ethnic diversity, flourishing arts scene and 24-hour nightlife. A total of three other German cities feature in the ‘top ten most liveable cities’ Mercer survey (2016):

• Munich: Considered the heart and soul of the south eastern state of Bavaria, which up until 1918 was an independent republic. Proud of their unique cultural identity, Bavarians consider themselves ‘Bavarian first and German second.’ Munich is home to Germany’s highest ranking university - Technische Universität München. The city is also famous for its annual Oktoberfest celebration and cavernous beer halls.
• Dusseldorf: Situated in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Dusseldorf is considered to be Germany’s economic powerhouse and fashion capital. This modern and wealthy city is home to international business but has retained its elegant character. The city is famous for its Altstadt historical quarter, dubbed ‘the longest bar in the world’ for the string of drinking establishments which line the banks of the Rhine.
• Frankfurt: Located in the centre of Germany, Frankfurt is the country’s financial heart. The city is home to the European Central Bank, Deutsche Bank and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. This lively city combines medieval architecture with exuberant nightlife, encouraged by the large student population.

Other notable German cities include the idyllic southwestern city of Heidelberg home to the prestigious 14^th century Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg and the eastern city of Leipzig in Saxony, which has emerged as one of Germany’s most up-and-coming places to live. For more information about Germany, its regions and cities visit the Study in Germany website.