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Pros and Cons of Living in Cologne, Germany | Expat Exchange
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Pros and Cons of Living in Cologne

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 17, 2025

Summary: The pros of living in Cologne, Germany include its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and its close proximity to other major cities in Europe. Additionally, Cologne is known for its beautiful architecture, its many parks and green spaces, and its diverse population. On the other hand, the cost of living in Cologne can be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season. Additionally, the weather in Cologne can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers.

What are the pros and cons of living in Cologne?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Cologne responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Cologne appreciate the city's vibrant culture, with its many museums, galleries, and festivals. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, the city's low cost of living is attractive to expats and digital nomads. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the city's weather to be too cold and wet for their liking. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak German," said one in Cologne.

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What do expats in Cologne appreciate most about the local culture?

"Intelligent and provoking conversation European holidays Culture is everday International feelings Order and Structure is sometimes a good thing Life is about living and not just working," said one expat in Cologne.

"Expats in Cologne appreciate the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theaters. They also enjoy the city's rich history, with its many historical sites and monuments. The city's friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to live. Expats also appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Finally, the city's diverse culinary scene, with its many restaurants, cafes, and bars, is a great way to experience the local culture," said a person living in Cologne.

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With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Cologne is the language barrier. Although many people in the city speak English, the majority of the population speaks German, and it can be difficult for expats to communicate with locals without a good grasp of the language. Additionally, the local culture is quite traditional and conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more formal social norms. Finally, the cost of living in Cologne can be quite high, and expats may find it difficult to find affordable housing and other necessities," replied an expat in Cologne.

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.

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