How to live a budget life in pricey Munich

Known worldwide as one of the most expensive German cities for expats, Munich is still a popular destination for those determined to live cheaply.

Given that the majority of expat city surveys are aimed at readers with enough funds to get by in the world’s most expensive hotspots, it’s amazing that a good number of expats can still manage to enjoy their lives on far smaller monthly amounts. Munich is a good example of this, as testified to by a number of expatriates on far less than generous monthly salaries.

The trickiest and most essential part of living like a local in Munich is accommodation, with newly arrived renters initially wishing they’d chosen another destination. However, those who don’t give up without at least trying will find deals on most of the usual websites, with Wohnungsboerse giving searchable apartment listing posted by landlords, thus cutting out the middleman and resulting in lower rental charges. Googleing online price-check tool websites for Munich can reveal whether your potential landlord is breaking the 10 per cent above local average law.

The city’s most affordable district is Perlach, with its inner areas cheaper than those on its rim. If you’re in Munich to study, shared apartments are the answer, easily found on Facebook and locally-aimed websites. Those on low incomes, whether singles or families, are entitled to apply for the Munchen Pass, giving discounts on transportation and other city-provided services including social housing.

Saving money on electricity can be done by switching providers, with Stadtwerke Munchen the most expensive as well as the default option on the majority of leases. E Wie Einfach is a far cheaper option, but switching can be a bore for expats. It’s the same with internet service providers ranging form basic to fibre-optic cable, with comparing prices for your average usage the best way to get online. For those stuck with poor local service, public libraries offer free wi-fi.

In Germany, personal health insurance is mandatory, paid as a mainly non-negotiable monthly fee. A few insurers offer good rebates or discounts for regular users of gyms and other health conscious activities such as yoga. For your general health and that of your wallet, the best way to get around the city is by bike, with the city’s infrastructure providing over 1,200kms of cycling lanes as well as city maps showing the most time and traffic-efficient routes. Leaving your bike whilst shopping or on the town is perfectly safe, as Munich has some of the lowest crime statistics anywhere in the world.