Budgeting for Berlin

What could be a better day to land in Berlin, Germany, than Christmas Day? The city was alive with people celebrating the holiday season, and I instantly fell in love with its vibrant atmosphere. I arrived with roughly 1,000 euros to cover my expenses until my blocked account funds were transferred.

For the first month, I stayed in a sublet due to the unavailability of the right accommodation. My main goal was to find a private room in a shared apartment within a budget of approximately 600 euros. Coming from India, I found several WhatsApp groups dedicated to Berlin rentals, which provided numerous options. I stayed proactive, frequently posting my requirements in these groups, and after a month of searching, I finally found a place near Adlershof for 590 euros, including utilities. It was a relief to secure a warm and comfortable space, and I moved in without hesitation.

Next came grocery shopping, a crucial aspect of my budgeting strategy. Being health-conscious, I prioritized home-cooked meals over dining out. However, I did indulge in Berlin’s famous street food on rare occasions, trying delicacies such as Döner, Dürüm, Currywurst, and various types of bread. Initially, I explored different supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, and Netto, but I eventually settled on Kaufland, which offered a wider selection and better prices. Many supermarkets provide discounts, and I stayed updated through promotional magazines sent via post.

To break down my grocery expenses, my monthly food budget of 100 euros is divided into:

• Weekly essentials (~25 euros): Fresh fruits and vegetables (bananas, apples, tomatoes, spinach, bell peppers), dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese), grains (rice, pasta, oats), and proteins (eggs, lentils, tofu, or chicken occasionally).

• Monthly bulk purchases (~20 euros): Cooking oil, spices, flour, and non-perishables like canned beans or frozen vegetables.

• Snacks and miscellaneous (~10-15 euros): Coffee, tea, dark chocolate, and occasional treats.

A go-to meal that I frequently prepare is vegetable/chicken stir-fry with rice, which costs around 2.50 euros per serving:

• Rice: 0.50 euros

• Mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, onions, spinach): 1.00 euros

• Tofu or eggs: 0.80 euros

• Spices and oil: 0.20 euros

By meal prepping and cooking in bulk, I save money while ensuring I eat nutritious meals.

Another major expense was transportation. Thanks to the convenient Deutschlandticket, which costs 58 euros per month (set to increase from January 2025), traveling within Germany became incredibly affordable. This ticket allowed me to explore nearby cities and even visit friends in Rostock. However, it excludes high-speed trains like ICE and services like FlixBus. One interesting discovery was that some supermarkets, such as Netto, offer better discounts on Saturdays, as all stores remain closed on Sundays. One of the things I admire about Germany is its strong work-life balance, which is evident in the tradition of keeping supermarkets closed on Sundays—a day dedicated to family and rest.

Fitness is an integral part of my routine, so I also factored in a gym membership. For 24 euros per month, I joined McFit, which provides access to gyms across Europe. This allowed me to maintain my workout regimen without breaking the bank.

Now I understand why the blocked account requirement is set at roughly 990 euros per month—it covers all essential expenses for students in Berlin. Based on my experience, my monthly budget breaks down as follows:

• Rent: 590 euros (including utilities)

• Health Insurance: ~140 euros (mandatory for students)

• Deutschlandticket: 58 euros

• Groceries: ~100 euros

• Gym Membership: 24 euros

• Miscellaneous & Savings: ~78 euros (covering unexpected expenses or occasional leisure activities)

Money-Saving Tips:

1. Buy groceries from discount supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, and Netto.

2. Check for deals and buy in bulk for non-perishables.

3. Use reusable bags to save on shopping bag charges.

4. Cook at home and meal prep to cut down on takeout.

5. Take advantage of student discounts in stores and public transport.

6. Shop on Saturdays for extra discounts before stores close on Sundays.

7. Use second-hand markets or online platforms for household essentials.

By the way, I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Analytics and AI at Steinbeis University. I hope this blog provides valuable insights into the cost of living in Berlin for students. If you’re planning to move here, budgeting wisely and utilizing available resources can make your experience much smoother!

Vishaka Thothiyana Chengappa
MA Data Analytics & AI