Accommodation in Munich

Finding accommodation in Munich isn't easy, but it's usually worth the effort. Most apartments and houses are comfortable and almost always close to amenities and public transport.

The biggest downside to renting accommodation in Munich is that the rental market can be difficult to navigate, as there is a high demand and limited supply. Still, it's possible to find your perfect home. 

Areas and suburbs in Munich

Munich has a diverse range of accommodation to suit people from all walks of life. The city is home to 25 districts, each with a distinct charm and character. Up-and-coming professionals often enjoy the bustling energy of Schwabing. 

Au Haidhausen is perfect if you're looking to be in the heart of the city. This neighbourhood is located along the Isar River and boasts many trendy waterside restaurants and cafés. 

If you're moving to Munich with children, you'll also have a fair few areas to choose from. Those who have a little room in their budgets typically prefer upmarket Bogenhausen while Pasing is popular for its suburban tranquillity. 

Read our guide on the Best (and worst) Areas and Suburbs in Munich for a detailed look on the top neighbourhoods in the city. 

Types of accommodation in Munich

The standard of accommodation in Munich is on par with that in most Western European cities. Properties are comfortable and finished to a high standard, though they can be on the small side. 

Munich offers a variety of furnished and unfurnished accommodation. While shipping furniture is a viable option, especially for expats moving from elsewhere in the EU, you should generally have no difficulty buying new items for your home in Germany. 

Those looking to live centrally in Munich will find that their choice of property is limited to apartments. Expat families will need to consider areas and suburbs further away from the city centre, where they'll find more spacious housing with gardens and surrounding open spaces.

Finding accommodation in Munich

Most expats rent an apartment in Munich. The first step to finding one is to approach an agent or to subscribe to a website that lists rentals. Local newspapers also contain listings. 

If you use an agent, you must submit a form that summarises what you're looking for. The agent will then contact you if there are any properties that match your specifications and give a time and date for a viewing. You shouldn't be surprised if there are several other people at the viewing, and the trick is to stay professional and express interest immediately.

Once you've been short-listed, you will be sent an application form that you should submit as soon as possible. If your application is successful, you can expect to pay a three-month security deposit upon signing a contract, as well as an agent's fee equivalent to around two months' rent.

Useful links

• Engel & Völkers
• ImmoScout24
• Kleinanzeigen

Renting accommodation in Munich

After finding a suitable property, you will need to arrange a time to view it with the landlord/agent. Group viewings are fairly common in Munich, and it might be a little overwhelming to find as many as 25 other potential tenants viewing the same property.

Making an application

If you are interested in a property, you should express this immediately. In many cases, especially in the more popular areas, landlords will have the pick of applications. As such, you should ensure your paperwork is in order to complete an application quickly. 

Applicants usually must provide a copy of their ID/passport, work permit (if applicable), wage slips, or contract of employment. In some cases, you may be required to provide references from your employer or previous landlords. 

Leases, costs, and fees

The lease length in Munich can vary, but is often a year. You should read the document carefully to ensure that they are aware of how much notice you are required to give your landlord should you wish to terminate the contract early. An inventory should also be carried out, and any damage to the property should be noted down formally to ensure that the full security deposit is returned at the end of the lease.

Most landlords ask for up to three months' rent to cover the security deposit on a place in Munich. The deposit is refundable and is usually returned at the end of the tenancy, provided the property is not damaged. Otherwise, cleaning or repair costs will be removed from the deposit before the balance is refunded. 

It is advisable to obtain proof from the landlord that he has kept the security deposit in a separate account from the monthly rent. As rental contracts are in German, we advise you to consult someone who knows the language to go through each clause to fully comprehend the terms and conditions.

Read Accommodation in Germany for more on rental processes in the country.

Utilities in Munich

New arrivals should note that Germany has 'cold rent' and 'warm rent'. The ‘warm rent’ includes heating and miscellaneous costs, but excludes electricity. ‘Cold rent’ excludes the cost of all utilities.

Utility bills are based on an approximate rate, which depends on the apartment size and the number of people living there. The monthly repayments can be adjusted accordingly, and the company issues an annual invoice stipulating the actual amount used and if there are any outstanding payments to be made. 

If you have paid more than the amount used for the year, you should receive a refund from the company.

Electricity, gas, and water

Munich's municipal utility company, Stadtwerke München GmbH (SWM) manages the electricity, gas, and water supply in the city. When you move into your new apartment, you can simply use SWM's online service to register the existing electricity, natural gas, and water meters. 

You will have to provide your move-in date, address, meter number and readings, and the name of the previous tenant. While SWM is the main provider, you are free to explore other electricity and natural gas companies. 

Bins and recycling

Abfallwirtschaftsbetrieb München (AWM) is responsible for waste management in Munich. Residents are provided different coloured bins for residual (grey), organic (brown), and paper (blue) waste. Organic waste is typically collected weekly, while residual waste is collected biweekly and paper waste is collected once a month. 

There are also recycling centres available for hazardous waste, and you can arrange collection for bulky waste. 

For more on internet, streaming, and cable services in the country, read Keeping in Touch in Germany

Useful links

• SWM
• City of Munich
• AWM