Retire in Dusseldorf, Germany
Last updated on Apr 05, 2025
Summary: Dusseldorf, Germany is an attractive destination for retirees due to its vibrant culture, excellent healthcare system, and convenient public transportation. The city is home to a number of retirement communities, which offer a variety of amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Dusseldorf is typically around $400,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost up to $600,000 USD. The weather in Dusseldorf is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit throughout the year.
What is it like to retire in Dusseldorf?
"Dusseldorf and its surroundings offer retirees a vibrant and active lifestyle. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries living in the city and its surrounding areas. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the city's many museums, galleries, and theaters. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as walking and cycling along the Rhine River, or exploring the city's many parks and gardens. For those looking for a nightlife, Dusseldorf has plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from," said one retiree in living in Dusseldorf, Germany.

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We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Germany. If you're moving to Germany, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Germany.

We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Germany. If you're moving to Germany, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Germany.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Research the area you plan to move to thoroughly in order to be sure that it is a place with which you are comfortable. Look into the cost of living to make sure you can afford it with your budget. Make sure you have access to proper healthcare and support networks in case you get sick or have any other needs. When selecting your country of residence, be sure to factor in the climate and quality of life. Consider the cultural differences and language barrier you may face when living in a foreign country. Make sure to take the time to meet people and build some relationships to familiarize yourself with the local culture, customs, and lifestyle. Finally, have a plan in place for how you plan to stay connected with family, friends, and loved ones back home," said one retiree in Dusseldorf.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Dusseldorf?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Dusseldorf is the language barrier. Although many people in the city speak English, it is still important to learn some basic German in order to communicate effectively with locals. Additionally, the cost of living in Dusseldorf is relatively high, so retirees may need to adjust their budget accordingly. Furthermore, the city is known for its cold and wet winters, so retirees should be prepared for the weather. Finally, the healthcare system in Germany can be complex and difficult to navigate, so it is important to research the system before retiring," remarked one retiree in Dusseldorf.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Dusseldorf?
"Retiring in Dusseldorf offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its vibrant culture, with a wide range of museums, galleries, and theatres to explore. Dusseldorf is also home to a number of parks and gardens, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The city is well-connected, with excellent public transport links to the rest of Germany and beyond. Retirees can also take advantage of the city's excellent healthcare system, with a range of medical services available. Finally, Dusseldorf is a great place to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore," explained a retiree in Dusseldorf.
What are healthcare services like in Dusseldorf?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Dusseldorf. They wrote:
"Dusseldorf offers a wide range of healthcare services for 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. Additionally, Dusseldorf has a number of pharmacies, health insurance companies, and other health-related services. The city also has a number of medical research centers and universities that offer medical education and research opportunities. Furthermore, Dusseldorf has a number of health-related organizations and associations that provide support and resources to the local community," said one retiree in Dusseldorf.
How do I meet people in Dusseldorf?
When we asked people living in Dusseldorf about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"If a woman, American or other English-speaking, and there is an American women's club in your area, then I would HIGHLY recommend it. See their umbrella organization's - Federation of American Women's Clubs Overseas - website (www.fawco.org) for those clubs (www.fawco.org/fawcoweb/clubs) and links to their websites. Currently over 17,000 members from 76 clubs located in 34 countries worldwide," explained a retiree in Duesseldorf.
"Expats in Dusseldorf can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language clubs, and cultural clubs. Expats can also join local meetup groups, which are a great way to meet people with similar interests. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to attend networking events, such as business lunches and conferences, to meet other professionals in the area. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending local festivals and events, such as the Dusseldorf Carnival or the Christmas markets," explained one retiree living in Dusseldorf.
What is life like in Dusseldorf?
When we asked people living in Dusseldorf what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Dusseldorf is a great city for expats and digital nomads, offering a high quality of life and plenty of opportunities for work and leisure. The city is well connected, with excellent public transport links, and is home to a diverse range of cultures and nationalities. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many museums and galleries to taking part in the vibrant nightlife. The city also offers plenty of green spaces, with parks and gardens to explore. With its excellent infrastructure and welcoming atmosphere, Dusseldorf is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," commented one retiree living in Dusseldorf, Germany.
What do I need to know before retiring in Dusseldorf?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Dusseldorf, they said:
"Before retiring in Dusseldorf, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other parts of Germany. Expats should also research the local healthcare system and make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as German is the official language in Dusseldorf. Finally, expats should research the local culture and customs to ensure they are prepared to integrate into the local community," said a person in Dusseldorf.
What type of recreational activities are there in Dusseldorf?
"Dusseldorf offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to several parks, including the Hofgarten, a large park with a lake, gardens, and a playground. The Rheinpark is another popular park, located along the Rhine River and featuring a large playground, a beach, and a skate park. The city also has several sports facilities, including the ESPRIT Arena, a multi-purpose stadium that hosts football matches, concerts, and other events. The city also has several swimming pools, including the Aquazoo, a large indoor pool with slides and a wave pool. For those looking for a more active experience, the city also has several climbing walls, a golf course, and a bowling alley. Finally, Dusseldorf also has several museums, galleries, and theaters, offering a variety of cultural experiences," explained one member in Dusseldorf.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Dusseldorf?
"Dusseldorf is home to a variety of stores and markets where expats can buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular grocery stores is REWE, which has several locations throughout the city. REWE offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and other grocery items. Another popular grocery store is Edeka, which also has several locations in Dusseldorf. Edeka offers a variety of international and local products, as well as a selection of organic and health food items. For other shopping, expats can visit the Königsallee, a popular shopping street in the city center. Here, they can find a variety of stores, including department stores, boutiques, and specialty shops. Additionally, there are several shopping malls in Dusseldorf, such as the Schadow Arkaden and the Sevens, which offer a wide selection of stores and restaurants," remarked one retiree in Dusseldorf.
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.
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