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Moving to Frankfurt, Germany | Expat Exchange
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Main train station in Frankfurt, Germany

Moving to Frankfurt, Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Oct 01, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Frankfurt, Germany for its vibrant culture, excellent job opportunities, and high quality of life. With its bustling financial district, Frankfurt is a major hub for international business and finance, making it an attractive destination for those seeking professional opportunities. The city also offers a wide range of cultural attractions, from its world-class museums and galleries to its lively nightlife. Additionally, Frankfurt is known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city and explore its many attractions. With its combination of modern amenities and traditional charm, Frankfurt is an ideal destination for expats looking to experience the best of Germany.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do I need to know before moving to Frankfurt?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Frankfurt, they said:

"Frankfurt is a wonderful city. There are a lot of wonderful areas you just have to get out there and explore. Expect things to be different than (USA)home but be open minded about it. I always said that it's not better or worse it's just different. Soak up the experience one day you may no be able to have it. Do what you need to do to make your at home. It's hard being a foriegner especially if it's your first time living overseas. Find a way to make yourself a safe spot where you feel be relaxed at the end of a day of learning a new language and exploring a new town.If you don't speak the language get out there start taking German lessons as soon as possible. Immerse yourself in it and it will get easier," explained one expat living in Frankfurt, Germany.

"Frankfurt is a vibrant city with a lot to offer expats. It is important to research the cost of living in Frankfurt before moving, as it is one of the most expensive cities in Germany. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as German is the official language of Frankfurt. It is recommended to learn some basic German before moving to Frankfurt. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the public transportation system. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Frankfurt," said one expat in Frankfurt.

How do I find a place to live in Frankfurt?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"When looking for a place to live in Frankfurt, it is important to consider your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you are looking for. Start by researching the different neighborhoods in Frankfurt to find one that fits your needs. You can also search online for rental listings, or contact a local real estate agent for assistance. Additionally, there are many websites that offer listings of furnished apartments and rooms for rent in Frankfurt. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can visit the properties in person to get a better feel for the area and decide if it is the right fit for you," replied a member in Frankfurt.

"We had our company choose an apartment for us first. We where there 1 year and where able to explore all the areas around us. After that we choose a realtor to find an apartment for us. It was expensive but we really liked the apartment and where able to choose an area closer to the friends we had made and the places we liked to frequent," commented one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Frankfurt?

"I live in Germany for eight years, almost. I now bought a house with my partner. And I have an apartment for you as well, in the attic of my house, of course. :-) A plus, I have an apartment in the finished basement, too," commented one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

"Expat homes and apartments in Frankfurt are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many apartments come with balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Expat homes and apartments are usually well-equipped with modern appliances and amenities, such as air conditioning, dishwashers, and washing machines. Many apartments also come with access to a gym, pool, or other recreational facilities. Expat homes and apartments in Frankfurt are typically located in the city center, close to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and other amenities," remarked one expat in Frankfurt, Germany.

What is the average cost of housing in Frankfurt?

If you are thinking about moving to Frankfurt, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Cost of living is higher. Most things are more expensive than back in the US. We waited to buy a lot of basics (clothing, toiletries, books, shoes) when we where home visiting," commented one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

"The cost of housing in Frankfurt can vary greatly depending on the area and type of accommodation. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Frankfurt is around €1,000 to €1,500 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around €3,000 to €4,000 per square meter," remarked one expat in Frankfurt, Germany.

Should I buy or rent a home in Frankfurt?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Frankfurt, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Frankfurt can be a great investment, as the city is a major financial and cultural hub in Europe. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Frankfurt, as well as the availability of housing, before making a decision. Renting a home in Frankfurt can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Frankfurt should be based on individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Frankfurt, Germany.

What should I pack when moving to Frankfurt?

We asked people living in Frankfurt to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Frankfurt, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack warm clothing for the winter months, as temperatures can drop below freezing. Bring comfortable shoes for walking, as Frankfurt is a very walkable city. Make sure to bring a raincoat and umbrella, as Frankfurt experiences a lot of rain. Additionally, pack items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as a phrasebook or language learning materials. Finally, don't forget to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport or visa," said one expat in Frankfurt.

"One of the first things I recommend bringing would be medicines. Most of the German medicines I tried where weaker doses than I was used to or where homeopathic remedies. I felt very little effect when I was sick with say the flu. If you attempt to go to a Pharmacy (apotheka) First you have to know what the medicine is called in German. Second you have to hope the Apotheka is open. If you are sick during lunch, after hours or on the weekends you may have to travel far to find the 1 open pharmacy in your area. All of this is hard to find out when you are new to Germany. So I always make sure I have a basic stock pile. cold medicine, cough suppressent, pain relievers etc. Second thing I would definitly bring would be a few non-pershable items of "comfort food". I found it odd that as much as I love trying new foods I still missed the old mac and cheese. Bring a few items to snack on when you are feeling particularly homesick. Also I found it impossible to find the brown sugar that we are used to in the states. Bring a few baking items and spices as well. Third would have to be very good walking shoes. Invest in them, they are worth the money. Living in Europe often requires a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. Your feet take a real beating. Shoes are expensive to buy there so you are better off doing that back in the US. Things I would leave behind would be some of my books and CD's. I never used any those phrase books and only listened to about half of the cd's I brought," said one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Frankfurt?

We asked people in Frankfurt if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Oh, yes, so far I can remember. I was most of time more dressed smarter than they were according the German outfits' standards:) and the firm's habits. I thought in a marketing background being dressing smart embodied seriousness, but it was seen as arrogant in this firm. My oh my:) But that mainly lies in the differences to dress and the clothes' choices in both countries:) I used Miss instead Mrs:) Fräulein instead of Frau. Did not use a beer glass to drink beer. Did not use my hands to eat chicken wing and salad during Oktoberfest. I use a fork for that :)," replied a member in Frankfurt.

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Frankfurt. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to dining, as certain table manners may be seen as rude. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language and to avoid speaking English too loudly in public," commented one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

Why do people move to Frankfurt?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Frankfurt, they responded:

"Frankfurt is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent transportation links, and high quality of life. The city is home to a diverse population, with a large international community, making it easy for expats to settle in and make friends. Frankfurt is also a major financial and business hub, with many multinational companies based in the city, providing plenty of job opportunities. The city is also known for its excellent education system, with a number of universities and colleges offering a range of courses. Finally, Frankfurt is a great place to explore, with plenty of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife to enjoy," commented one expat living in Frankfurt.

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How are healthcare services Frankfurt?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Frankfurt, they replied:

"Frankfurt offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies, health insurance companies, and other health-related services. In addition, Frankfurt has a number of specialized medical centers, such as those for cancer treatment, fertility, and mental health. The city also has a number of medical research centers and universities that offer medical education and research opportunities," commented one expat living in Frankfurt.

What are medical services in Frankfurt like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Frankfurt, they replied:

"Frankfurt offers a wide range of medical services for its residents. The city has a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide comprehensive care for a variety of medical needs. The city also has a number of specialized medical centers that focus on specific areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores located throughout the city. Frankfurt also has a number of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care to residents," said one expat living in Frankfurt, Germany.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Main train station in Frankfurt, Germany

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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