- Download our Moving to Munich Guide (PDF)
The gorgeous city of Munich lies just north of the beautiful Bavarian Alps and straddles the River Isar. The city is one of the most picturesque in Europe with centuries-old architecture and scenic lanes, but it's probably best known for it its beer, and more specifically its world-famous Oktoberfest which celebrates the city's wonderful brewing culture.
With a city motto like 'Munich Loves You', it shouldn’t be long before expats moving to Munich feel welcome in the Bavarian capital. With an exuberant mix of trendy shops and restaurants, bellowing beer halls and leafy parks, it's easy to see why it attracts so many expats.
Working in Munich as an expat
One of Germany's most prosperous cities, Munich is a centre for biotechnology and software development, attracting professional expats looking for high living standards and a chance to grow their careers. With its favourable business climate, it boasts one of the country's lowest unemployment rates and is home to some of its highest earners – the fleets of luxury vehicles cruising down the Autobahn show that it's as much a place of style as it is of wealth.
Working in Munich - advice for expats
Doing business in Germany
Finding accommodation in Munich
The standard of housing in Munich is excellent, although finding a suitable property can be difficult because demand often outstrips supply. Still, whether they're young professionals or parents after a quieter neighbourhood, expats are likely to find a suburb in Munich that suits them.
Accommodation in Munich
Best places to live in Munich for expats
The rental process in Germany
Cost of living in Munich
The cost of living in Munich is undeniably high. The 2024 Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking places it 38th out of 226 cities surveyed, compared to Berlin (31st) and Frankfurt (35th). That said, while housing and utility costs are steep, expats can save money by using the city's affordable public transport to get around. Other costs include compulsory health insurance and, if parents wish to send their kids to an international school, they'll need to consider the significant tuition costs.
Living in Munich
There's plenty to see and do in Munich. It's rich in history and culture, and its events calendar is packed throughout the year. The city embraces modernity while preserving heritage, creating an atmosphere where small-town living meets high-tech innovation. It also features historical sites such as the bustling Marienplatz, Maximilianstrasse, and the city's cultural epicentre in Maxvorstadt, all educational experiences for the youngsters.
People moving to Munich will discover that this clean, family-friendly Bavarian city offers a fantastic quality of life, with world-class restaurants, easy access to the Alps, and of course the famous annual Oktoberfest.
Shopping, nightlife and eating out in Munich
Things to do in Munich
Healthcare
Expat parents can also rest assured that they'll have access to superb private and public healthcare. The city is home to numerous surgical centres and specialised practitioners, and features some of the most advanced hospitals in the world.
Hospitals in Munich
Healthcare system in Germany
Schools
Munich is blessed with a multitude of excellent public, private and international schools, while tertiary institutions in Munich are some of the best in the country, so parents will have a rich variety to choose from.
Education in Munich
International school in Munich
Climate in Munich
Munich's weather can be unpredictable. Summers are mild and warm, but can also be exceptionally wet, and a typical day could see lovely sunny weather interspersed with dramatic thunderstorms. Winters are cold with light snowfalls.
No matter what expats are looking for in a city, they can find it in Munich without compromise. While some cities have to rely on certain distinguishing features to make up for those that may be lacking, Munich really has it all.
Further reading
►For more on expat life in the city, read our section on the lifestyle in Munich
Expat Interviews
"I have made friends with both locals and expats. I think the best advice I could give would be to learn German. Germans are much more relaxed and friendly when speaking their own language, even when they speak English excellently. If you’re into skiing and want to get to know a diverse group of people, then I really recommend joining the Munich International Ski Club." Read more about Phil's expat experience in our interview with this Kiwi expat in Munich.
Are you an expat living in Munich?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Munich. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance
Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.
- Comprehensive family coverage, wherever you go
- Paediatric coverage for well-child visits & immunisations
- Access to dental and orthodontic care
- 24/7 multilingual customer service
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