A Guide for Expatriates in Berlin: Finding Accommodation and Integrating

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Key Insights

• Berlin is a top destination for expats due to its cultural diversity and thriving job market.
• Finding suitable accommodation is crucial for a successful start in Berlin.
• There are various accommodation options such as temporary housing, furnished apartments, and shared flats.
• Integrating into the Berlin lifestyle requires understanding local norms and customs.
• Cost of living varies depending on the district and type of accommodation.

Introduction

Berlin is known as a prime destination for expatriates, not least because of its cultural diversity, thriving job market, and open atmosphere. In fact, Berlin attracts thousands of expats every year (Source: Wunderflats Berlin Guide 2025). This is also due to the fact that a successful move and a thriving life in this city are strongly connected to finding suitable accommodation and integrating into the Berlin lifestyle, topics that will be covered in this guide.

Living in Berlin as an Expat

Berlin is home to a large, diverse expat community, attracted by the city’s affordability compared to other European capitals, a robust job market, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle where English is widely spoken (Source: Wunderflats Berlin Guide 2025). The city is particularly noted for its relaxed culture, rich history, and creative energy. However, challenges include the competitive housing market and the need to understand local norms, such as the preference for unfurnished apartments and the importance of punctual administrative appointments (Source: FarAwayHome Expat Relocation Guide, Living in Berlin Guide).

Types of Accommodation for Expats in Berlin

Temporary Housing in Berlin

Temporary accommodation refers to short-term rentals, ideal for expats seeking flexibility upon arrival. This includes serviced apartments, furnished flats, and sublets, offering immediate move-in readiness and rental agreements from a few weeks to several months. Quick access to temporary housing is facilitated by platforms specializing in short-term rentals or serviced apartments, especially if you prepare your documents (proof of income, references) in advance (Source: FarAwayHome Expat Relocation Guide, Living in Berlin Guide).

Furnished Apartments for Expats in Berlin

Furnished apartments eliminate the hassle of setting up a new home by often coming with all amenities. Particular advantages include:

• Convenience – no furniture shopping necessary
• Flexible lease terms, ideal for testing different neighborhoods
• Quick move-in possibility

Popular districts for expats looking for furnished apartments include Mitte (urban and central), Prenzlauer Berg (family-friendly and sociable), Kreuzberg/Friedrichshain (trendy and international), and Charlottenburg (residential, excellent schools) (Source: FarAwayHome Expat Relocation Guide). Top platforms for searching furnished apartments are FarAwayHome, Wunderflats, and Moebliertes-wohnen.eu (Furnished Living in Berlin – Moebliertes-wohnen.eu).

Shared Apartments

Shared apartments (WGs) are common in Berlin, particularly among students and young professionals. Benefits include lower costs, built-in social opportunities, and flexibility. However, privacy may be limited, and finding the right roommates is crucial. Online platforms like WG-Gesucht and local Facebook groups are reliable for WG search requests (Source: Expat Arrivals Accommodation Guide).

Finding the Right Accommodation

Step-by-Step Guide

• Define your budget, preferred neighborhoods, and type of accommodation.
• Gather necessary documents (passport, proof of income, SCHUFA report if available).
• Use reputable platforms (Wunderflats, FarAwayHome, ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht) for your search.
• Schedule viewing appointments quickly and be prepared to act fast in high-demand situations.

Key factors

• Proximity to work, public transportation, and amenities
• Lease duration (short-term vs. long-term)
• Costs (rent, utilities, deposits)

Cost of Living and Accommodation in Berlin

Housing costs vary greatly:

• 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: ~ €1,230/month
• 1-bedroom apartment outside the center: ~ €900/month
• Larger family apartments: €1,600–€2,200/month depending on location
• Utilities: €300–€400/month for a medium-sized apartment
• High-speed internet: ~ €40/month (Source: FarAwayHome Expat Relocation Guide)

Costs also differ between districts, with Mitte and Charlottenburg being among the most expensive, while areas like Pankow or Steglitz offer quieter, more affordable options. When budgeting for life in Berlin, consider both rent and ongoing living expenses (Source: FarAwayHome Expat Relocation Guide, Living in Berlin Guide).

Integrating into the Berlin Lifestyle

To settle in, join expat groups, attend meetups, and explore language cafes or hobby clubs. Berlin’s international scene is welcoming, but embracing some German customs, like punctuality and recycling, will ease your transition (Source: Wunderflats Berlin Guide 2025, Living in Berlin Guide). Annual events and neighborhood assemblies offer many networking opportunities.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Legal requirements: After moving, quickly register with the local citizen service unit (Bürgeramt) and apply for the appropriate residence permit, especially if you’re arriving from outside the EU (Source: FarAwayHome Expat Relocation Guide).
• Utilities: Most apartments are “Kaltmiete” (without utilities). You’ll need to set up accounts for electricity, internet, and sometimes water yourself.
• Getting around: Berlin’s extensive public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, trams) makes it easy to explore the city without a car (Source: Living in Berlin Guide).

Conclusion

Finding suitable accommodation for expatriates in Berlin can be challenging, but it’s manageable with the right strategies and resources. Consider your living needs, act quickly, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from other expats when needed. Your Berlin adventure is just beginning – embrace the opportunities, culture, and connections awaiting you.

Additional Resources

• Housing platforms: Wunderflats, FarAwayHome, ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht
• Relocation assistance: Expatrio, Expat Arrivals
• Expat forums: Toytown Germany, Meetup Berlin Expats, Facebook groups “Expats in Berlin” and “Berlin Apartments & Rooms for Rent” (Source: Expatrio, FarAwayHome, Expat Arrivals).

These resources and tips will help ensure a smooth start to your new life in Berlin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I quickly find accommodation in Berlin?

Using reputable platforms like FarAwayHome, Wunderflats, and WG-Gesucht can speed up the process. Prepare all necessary documents in advance and be ready to respond quickly to offers.

What are the best neighborhoods for expats in Berlin?

Popular neighborhoods for expats include Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg/Friedrichshain, and Charlottenburg, depending on your preferences for atmosphere and amenities.

What is the cost of living in Berlin?

The cost of living varies depending on the neighborhood and lifestyle, but overall, Berlin is relatively affordable compared to other European capitals.