In short: Rent is the biggest and most variable cost. According to the 2022 census of the Federal Statistical Office, the average net cold rent was EUR 7.28 per square metre nationwide, with big cities much higher and new leases above existing ones. Fixed costs include health insurance (deducted from your salary), the Deutschlandticket for public transport (EUR 63 per month in 2026) and the broadcasting fee (EUR 18.36 per month per household).
Note: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The law and the decisions of the competent authorities are decisive; rules can change. As of October 2026.
Local detail: city guides for Hamburg, Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt and Cologne (recognition office, rent index, pay agreements) · country guides.
Housing
- Rent level: the 2022 census found an average net cold rent of EUR 7.28 per m² in Germany; Munich averaged EUR 12.89, Frankfurt EUR 10.58, Berlin EUR 7.67, and the state of Hamburg EUR 9.16. These are averages of all existing tenancies, and rents for new contracts are usually higher than census averages.
- Additional costs: heating, water and building costs (Nebenkosten) come on top of the cold rent; electricity is often separate.
- Deposit: by law a deposit may be at most three months' net cold rent (§ 551 Civil Code).
- Many employers help international nurses find their first accommodation – ask about it in your contract negotiations.
Deductions from your salary
Income tax and social security contributions (health, long-term care, pension and unemployment insurance) are deducted directly from your gross salary. Statutory health insurance is shared between you and your employer. Use the official tax calculator of the Federal Ministry of Finance to estimate your net pay.
Other regular costs
- Public transport: Deutschlandticket, valid nationwide on local transport – EUR 63 per month in 2026; many employers subsidise it as a job ticket.
- Broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag): EUR 18.36 per month per household.
- Food, mobile phone, internet and personal insurance (for example personal liability insurance) depend on your lifestyle.
Before your first salary
Plan for the first weeks: deposit, furniture, initial shopping and transport. Your first salary is usually paid at the end of your first month of work.
How Berlin Tehran helps
We help healthcare professionals prepare their documents in an orderly way and coordinate with employers in Germany, following a transparent 8-step process with up to 90 days of support after arrival. We are specialised in Iran and support healthcare professionals from all countries where private recruitment is permitted. We do not provide legal advice; authorities make all decisions.
Apply as a healthcare professional Our ethical recruitment rules
Related guides
- Nurse salary in Germany: official figures
- Your first 90 days in Germany
- Family reunification
- Apply with Berlin Tehran
Frequently asked questions
How much is rent in Germany?
The 2022 census average was EUR 7.28 per m² net cold rent nationwide, but big cities and new leases are considerably more expensive.
How much is the Deutschlandticket in 2026?
EUR 63 per month; many employers offer a subsidised job ticket.
Is health insurance included in my salary deductions?
Yes. Statutory health insurance contributions are deducted from your gross salary, with the employer paying a share.
How high can a rental deposit be?
At most three months of net cold rent (§ 551 German Civil Code).