Karlsruhe, Germany
Last updated on Jan 03, 2023
Summary: The population of Karlsruhe is 300,000. Karlsruhe is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, a great university, and a lively nightlife. Expats love the city's excellent public transportation system, its proximity to the Black Forest, and its vibrant cultural scene. The weather in Karlsruhe is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 37°F (3°C) in the winter to an average high of 77°F (25°C) in the summer. The average cost of living in Karlsruhe for an expat is around $2,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $800 per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $1,200 per month.
What are the pros and cons of living in Karlsruhe?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Karlsruhe responded:
"a nice city in a very beautyful part of Germany - and centrally based in Europe close to Switzerland and France," said another in Karlsruhe.

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"for a start it can be good and convenient to socialise with other expats, but getting to know some local people is another very rich experience," explained one expat living in Karlsruhe.
What advice to expats in Karlsruhe have about housing?
"as an expat you normally only stay in the same city for a few years. Often renting is more practical than buying - and maybe having to sell again rather quickly," said another expat in living in Karlsruhe, Germany.
What do I need to know before moving to Karlsruhe?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Karlsruhe, they said:
"Take your time. Don't compare it to your current home in the US. If you compare, compare it to others in your similar situation (income, family status, lifestyle). If you would like to take public transportation, which is very popular, economical, and practical in Europe, be sure to live near a bus/train stop," said another expat in Karlsruhe.

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How do I find a place to live in Karlsruhe?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"I asked future co-workers who lived in the area then I visited those areas they suggested," remarked another in Karlsruhe.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Karlsruhe?
"I live on the top floor of a in a three family house/apartment. Most people live in an apartment complex," said another expat in Karlsruhe.
What is the average cost of housing in Karlsruhe?
If you are thinking about moving to Karlsruhe, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing is 500 Euro per month for a 2 bedroom apartment in a nice neighborhood which is just outside of downtown," said another expat in Karlsruhe.

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What should I bring when moving to Karlsruhe?
People living in Karlsruhe were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:
"I wish I had brought more: make up and medicine (antibiotics) I wish I had left the following at home: all my electronic items and my weight set," said another person in Karlsruhe.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do expats in Karlsruhe appreciate most about the local culture?
"The independence. I come from a small MI town, when you want to go somewhere you have two options drive your car or have someone else drive you. Public transportation here is very good, you can get anywhere with it," said another expat in Karlsruhe.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Karlsruhe?
- How do I find a place to live in Karlsruhe?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Karlsruhe?
- What is the average cost of housing in Karlsruhe?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Karlsruhe?
- What should I pack when moving to Karlsruhe?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Karlsruhe?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Karlsruhe?
- What are healthcare services like in Karlsruhe?
- Is the cost of living in Karlsruhe high?
- Will I save money living in Karlsruhe?
- Why do people move to Karlsruhe?
- How are healthcare services Karlsruhe?
- What are medical services in Karlsruhe like?