Pros and cons of moving to Frankfurt

Relocating to the multicultural and commercial hub of Frankfurt comes with both opportunities and challenges. Expats and visitors flock to the city from all over and, while some only stay a short while, many others make Frankfurt their permanent home. 

As with any stay abroad, those considering relocating to Frankfurt should think about the advantages and disadvantages of life in the city. Below, we list some pros and cons of moving to Frankfurt. 

Working in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Employment opportunities in industrial and financial sectors

It is no secret that Frankfurt is an economic hub and one of Europe’s key banking and financial powerhouses. The city is home to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, the European Central Bank and hundreds of other financial institutions, so you should have no trouble finding work and business opportunities if you have skills in these sectors.

+ PRO: Good work-life balance

Frankfurt residents embrace a work-hard-play-hard approach. As a key economic centre, professionals in the city are hardworking, with efficiency and punctuality being the order of the day. To balance this, employees are afforded lots of time off work and generous leave allowances for holidays and leisure time.

- CON: Language barriers

When seeking work in Frankfurt, it helps to speak German. Although Frankfurt is a cosmopolitan city where various languages are widely spoken, being able to speak German will be helpful in your business dealings and when you're going about your daily life. Despite potential language barriers, learning German doesn’t need to be a 'con'–it can be a fun and interesting experience.

Cost of living in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Flea markets and secondhand stores offer cheap deals

Whether you're on a tight budget or you're looking for vintage ware, Frankfurt’s flea markets and secondhand shops are a great place to start. You can score great bargains on clothing as well as tables and chairs or antique items to furnish your new home.

- CON: One of Germany's most expensive cities

The cost of living in Frankfurt is high, especially in terms of rent. While salaries are adjusted to accommodate this, income tax is high, too. Expats may be lured with what seems like a generous salary, but a large proportion of it will go to tax, so budgeting is critical.

+ PRO: Affordable and efficient services

Despite the many expenses you may face, Frankfurt offers extensive top-notch services, including affordable transport, schooling and high-quality healthcare. This is largely thanks to the high taxes, so many find it worth it.

Lifestyle and culture in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene

There’s always a fun night out in Frankfurt, with myriad options, including cocktail lounges, local bars, nightclubs, and venues with live music. Areas in the north of the city, such as Fressgasse, Zeil, and Römerberg, offer the best nightlife atmosphere.

+ PRO: Lots to see and do

This riverside city may be a financial hub, but Frankfurt's lifestyle is known for offering a multitude of cultural events, artistic sights, restored medieval buildings, and a certain Gothic charm. The Römerberg area and the Frankfurt Cathedral are top attractions, and new arrivals can familiarise themselves with their new home by taking a walking tour of the Old Town or a cruise along the river.

- CON: Making friends may be difficult

Many expats report that it can be hard to make friends with Germans and that, particularly in the workplace, Germans don't often talk about their lives outside the job. This may not always be the case, though. If you share common interests with someone, it can be easy to make friends and socialise. Frankfurt is a truly global, cosmopolitan city, so it’s possible to meet people from all over the world.

Transport and driving in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Well-connected city for travel

Frankfurt is centrally located and well connected to other German cities and European countries. Its train network, busy international airport, and Autobahn system make travelling for business or leisure a breeze. Visiting surrounding towns to enjoy the countryside is just as easy.

+ PRO: Pedestrian-friendly city

Frankfurt’s main attractions are in the city centre, which is a hive of activity and where many expats may find themselves working. These areas are easy to reach and get around on foot or by bicycle.

- CON: Parking is expensive

While parking is available in downtown Frankfurt, it is pricey. Most residents prefer to get around using public transport and do not see the need for a car, but it does provide greater freedom and in some cases may be necessary. If you are planning on driving, then you may encounter some expensive parking fees.

Accommodation in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Wide range of housing options

Frankfurt offers a wide variety of properties, from big and small apartments in central areas to larger houses in surrounding suburbs and everything in between.

- CON: High demand and high rental costs

Frankfurt is a relatively small city, and the demand for housing is greater than the supply. This has driven rent up and made it difficult to secure a home. Home insurance is also a must and is an added cost. Upon finding your perfect accommodation in Frankfurt, you must act quickly to submit a lease application. 

- CON: Most accommodation options are unfurnished

Most apartments and houses have minimal furnishings, and you will either need to ship or buy furniture. For tenants who prefer to put their own stamp on a place, this could be a 'pro'. That said, an expat’s stay is often short, so many prefer to find a fully furnished home.

Education and schools in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Excellent standard of schools

Both public and private schools in Frankfurt offer a high standard of facilities, well-trained teachers, and aim to provide children with a well-rounded education. Public schools are better for expat children to integrate into German society quicker, while a bilingual or international school may offer the comfort of their home language and a familiar curriculum.

- CON: International school fees are exorbitant

While public schools are a viable option, many expat families choose international schools for the aforementioned reasons. Parents who go this route should consider the often hefty tuition fees at these institutions. 

+ PRO: Great universities in Frankfurt

Some of Germany’s best universities are located in Frankfurt, such as Goethe University Frankfurt and Frankfurt School of Finance & Management. 

Healthcare in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Exceptional healthcare facilities and qualified practitioners

Frankfurt boasts a wide range of excellent healthcare facilities, with a fair few specialist hospitals. It's also fairly easy to find English-speaking doctors and healthcare practitioners, so expats needn't worry about managing their health while living in the city. 

- CON: Proof of health insurance is mandatory to secure a visa

Although some expats may prefer to arrange their health insurance while already in the country, this is not possible in Germany as you must provide proof of health insurance before you are granted a visa. Expats who are high-earners or are self-employed can pick between public or private health insurance.