Cost of Living in Frankfurt

Is Frankfurt expensive?

On Numbeo's list of 150 European cities, Frankfurt currently occupies the 26th position in terms of cost of living. It is more expensive than Brussels and Vienna, but cheaper than Munich and Dublin.

For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Munich will cost around €1,420. For Vienna, this number is approximately €1,040. As for Frankfurt, it is around €1,300.

Rent per month

Here are some detailed figures to help you understand the cost of living in Frankfurt (Source: Numbeo):

• Apartment (1 bedroom) in the city center: €1,301
• Apartment (1 bedroom) outside the center: €986
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) in the city center: €2,317
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) outside the center: €1,613

Rental prices in Frankfurt are among the highest in Germany, driven by its status as a major financial and business hub. Central districts like Westend, Sachsenhausen, and Nordend tend to have the most expensive apartments, while more affordable options can be found in the outskirts or nearby towns. Compared to cities like Berlin and Hamburg, Frankfurt’s rental costs are significantly higher, though slightly lower than Munich, which consistently ranks as the priciest city in Germany. While expensive, Frankfurt's rental market is competitive, especially for high-demand areas close to the city center and business districts, making early searches crucial for finding suitable housing.

Best areas to live in Frankfurt:

• Innenstadt — A financial and commercial hub.
• Bahnhofsviertel — A well-connected area with numerous bars and restaurants.
• Bockenheim — A diverse neighborhood known for its mix of students, families, and professionals, offering a lively atmosphere with cafes and parks
• Westend — A prestigious neighborhood in Frankfurt, characterized by elegant architecture, quiet streets, and close proximity to the city’s financial district.

Up-and-coming areas:

• Kronberg — A part of the Frankfurt urban area, one of the most prominent neighborhoods in the region.
• Ostend — A dynamic and rapidly developing neighborhood known for its modern architecture and lively, multicultural atmosphere.

Areas with potential downsides:

• Gallus — Not the best area for those looking for a quiet and peaceful neighborhood with low traffic
• Gutleutvertiel — An area with limited green space but with multiple cultural attractions.

How to find an apartment in Frankfurt?

Finding an apartment in Frankfurt can be competitive due to high demand, especially in central neighborhoods like Westend and Sachsenhausen. It’s important to start your search early and be prepared with all necessary documents, including proof of income and a SCHUFA credit report. Popular platforms for apartment hunting include ImmobilienScout24, Immonet, and WG-Gesucht for shared apartments. These websites provide detailed listings with filtering options for price, size, and location.

Additionally, local Facebook groups and real estate agencies can be useful for finding both short- and long-term rentals. Be aware that in high-demand areas, apartments can be rented quickly, so responding promptly to listings and attending viewings is crucial. Consider extending your search to nearby neighborhoods or suburbs for more affordable options.

If you need help with your housing search in Frankfurt, we’re here to help. We can provide you with a quote or connect you with our trusted partners who have successfully helped many of our users find housing in the city.

Property prices

The average price per square meter to buy an apartment in Frankfurt is around (Source: Numbeo):

• City center: €7,704/sqm
• Outside of the city center: €4,672/sqm

Buying property in Frankfurt is a significant investment, as it is one of Germany's most expensive real estate markets, driven by its status as a major financial hub. Central neighborhoods like Westend (around €1.9 million), Nordend (from around ), and Sachsenhausen (from around ) are particularly sought after for their upscale appeal and proximity to business districts, which can lead to steep property prices. Property buyers should be prepared for high competition, especially for well-located apartments and houses. Mortgage rates in Germany are generally low, making financing attractive, but property prices in Frankfurt continue to rise steadily, reflecting strong demand and limited supply.

Foreign buyers are allowed to purchase property in Germany without restrictions, and the process typically involves hiring a notary to handle legal paperwork and ensure the transaction is properly registered. Key platforms for property searches include ImmobilienScout24, Immonet, and local real estate agencies, where listings for apartments, houses, and investment properties are regularly updated. It's important to budget for additional costs like property transfer tax, notary fees, and registration, which can amount to roughly 10-15% of the property's purchase price. Buying in Frankfurt offers the potential for long-term value appreciation, particularly in sought-after areas close to the city center.

Utilities

Housing in Frankfurt is expensive but utilities also make up a significant part of the cost of living (Source: Numbeo):

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m² apartment: €348
• Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ Data: €24
• Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): €42

Summing up these expenses, the total comes to €414 per month. Note that choosing cheaper providers and renting an apartment in the suburbs will help you save money.

Public transport

Frankfurt boasts an efficient and well-connected public transport system, making it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. The network includes the S-Bahn (suburban trains), U-Bahn (underground trains), trams, and buses, all operated by the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV) and VGF (Verkehrsgesellschaft Frankfurt). These modes of transport cover most parts of the city, providing frequent services and well-maintained infrastructure. The central hub for public transport is Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, the main train station, which connects to local, regional, and international destinations. Public transport is a convenient and affordable option, and many residents use it daily, reducing the need for cars. Monthly passes, such as the Jobticket for employees, are available for regular commuters, making it a practical choice for most people living in the city.

Travel ticket (Sources: RMV and VGF):

• RMV Single Journey Ticket: from €2.25
• RMV Monthly Ticket: €106.20
• VGF Deutschland Ticket (monthly): €49
• VGF Deutschland Ticket Frankfurt Pass Mobil (monthly): €24.50

Taxi (Source: Numbeo):

• Taxi start (normal tariff): €4.75
• Taxi 1 km: €2.55
• Taxi 1 hour waiting: €33
• From the Airport to the city center: €25-35

Food

Purchasing groceries in Frankfurt is convenient and offers a wide variety of options to cater to different tastes and budgets. The city features numerous supermarkets such as REWE, EDEKA, and Lidl, which provide everything from fresh produce to household essentials. For those seeking specialty items or organic products, markets like Alnatura and local health food stores are popular choices. Additionally, Frankfurt has several weekly farmers' markets, such as the one at Kleinmarkthalle, where shoppers can find fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and artisanal products. Many neighborhoods also host smaller grocery stores and bakeries, ensuring that residents have access to everyday necessities close to home. With its diverse culinary scene, Frankfurt also offers international grocery stores, allowing residents to explore flavors from around the world. However, here are the average food expenses:

• For a single person: €200-€400
• For a couple: €300-€600
• For a family of four: €600-€1,200

Here’s a look at the typical prices for some common grocery items (Source: Numbeo):

• Milk (1 liter): €1.14
• Loaf of fresh white bread (500g): €1.95
• Rice (1kg): €3.06
• Eggs (12): €3.37
• Chicken fillets (1kg): €12.57
• Domestic beer (0.5 liter draught): €5

Childcare

Childcare in Frankfurt is well-organized and offers a variety of options for families, including public daycare centers (Kitas), private nurseries, and family daycares. The city emphasizes early childhood education, providing programs for children from infancy to school age that focus on social, emotional, and cognitive development. While many public facilities are subsidized to make childcare more affordable, there can be high demand, particularly in sought-after neighborhoods, leading to waiting lists. Additionally, Frankfurt supports parents with various initiatives, including parental leave and financial assistance for childcare costs, creating a family-friendly environment that prioritizes the well-being and development of young children.

You can find a suitable option here. The website encompasses all the publicly funded providers and facilities offering childcare up to the end of primary school, regardless of

whether they are services offered by the local authority, a free non-profit organization, services affiliated with a church, or a childminder. Numerous filters are available, making the search process easy and quick.

Note that after-school programs in Frankfurt play a crucial role in supporting working parents and enriching children's educational experiences. These programs are offered by schools, community centers, and private organizations, providing children with a safe and engaging environment beyond regular school hours. Activities often include homework assistance, sports, arts and crafts, and cultural outings, fostering both academic growth and social development. Many programs are designed to cater to various age groups and interests, allowing children to explore new hobbies and make friends outside of the classroom. Additionally, these after-school initiatives often promote a sense of community and collaboration among families, ensuring that children have access to valuable resources and opportunities for personal growth in a supportive setting.

International yearly school fees (Source: International Schools Database):

• Frankfurt International School: €22,570-€29,940
• Metropolitan School Frankfurt: €14,232-€19,788
• Strothoff International School: €12,300-€21,030
• Phorms Bilingual School Frankfurt: fees are not public
• ISF International School Frankfurt-Rhein-Main: €14,430-€23,415

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