Moving to Munich

The gorgeous city of Munich lies just north of the beautiful Bavarian Alps and straddles the River Isar. With centuries-old architecture and scenic lanes, it is one of the most picturesque in Europe. It’s probably best known for 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 professionals 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 fleet of luxury vehicles cruising down the Autobahn shows 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

Although finding a suitable property can be difficult because demand often outstrips supply, Munich’s standard of housing is excellent. Still, whether you’re a young professional or a parent after a quieter neighbourhood, you are likely to find a suburb in Munich that suits you.

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, you can save money using the city’s affordable public transport. 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.

Cost of living in Munich

Lifestyle 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

Finding a school

Munich is blessed with a multitude of excellent public, bilingual, 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. Public schools are free to attend in Munich, but the language of instruction is German, which may be challenging for older children.

Parents who cannot afford the often pricey international schools should consider public or private bilingual schools, which typically teach in German and English. International schools are also a great option as they allow your children to continue in their home country’s curriculum and enable them to meet others who share similar experiences, which may ease the transition for them.

Education in Munich 
International schools in Munich

Healthcare

You can rest assured that you’ll have access to superb private and public healthcare. Munich is home to numerous surgical centres and specialised practitioners. It features some of the most advanced hospitals in the world.

Health insurance is mandatory when moving to Germany. The public health insurance will cover doctor’s visits, prescription medication, and hospital stays.

Hospitals in Munich 
Healthcare system in Germany

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 you seek in a city, you 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.

Climate and weather in Munich