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Cost of Living in Bonn, Germany | Expat Exchange
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Cost of Living in Bonn, Germany

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 03, 2025

Summary: What is the cost of living in Bonn, Germany? Hear what expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Bonn have to say about the cost of housing, health insurance and general living costs.

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Is the cost of living in Bonn high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bonn, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Bonn is considered moderate compared to other major cities in Germany. Rent is one of the most significant expenses, with the cost varying depending on the location and size of the property. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, while the same outside the city center is considerably cheaper. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are not usually included in the rent and can add to the monthly expenses. Internet and mobile phone costs are relatively affordable. Groceries in Bonn are reasonably priced, with local markets and discount supermarkets offering cheaper options. Eating out at restaurants can range from affordable at smaller establishments to quite expensive at high-end restaurants. Public transportation in Bonn is efficient and widely used, but the cost can add up if used daily. Owning a car can be quite expensive, considering the costs of fuel, maintenance, and parking. Healthcare in Germany is of high quality, but it can be costly if you're not covered by health insurance. Education, especially at the university level, can also be a significant expense if you're an international student. Overall, while the cost of living in Bonn is not the highest in Germany, it's essential to plan and budget carefully, especially for housing and transportation," said one expat in Bonn.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

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.
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Will I save money living in Bonn?

"The cost of living in Bonn compared to the United States can vary greatly depending on various factors such as your lifestyle, spending habits, and where in the U.S. you are comparing it to. Generally, the cost of living in Bonn is considered to be lower than in many major U.S. cities. Rent and real estate prices are often more affordable in Bonn, and public transportation is both efficient and reasonably priced, potentially saving you the cost of maintaining a car. However, groceries and dining out can be more expensive in Bonn than in the U.S. Additionally, while healthcare in Germany is often of high quality, it can be more expensive than in the U.S., especially if you are used to employer-subsidized health insurance. Ultimately, whether or not you save money will depend on your personal circumstances and choices," wrote a person living in Bonn.

What is the average cost of housing in Bonn?

If you are thinking about moving to Bonn, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Bonn can vary greatly depending on the area and type of housing. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, the average monthly rent is typically around €700 to €900. If you're looking at a three-bedroom apartment in the same area, you could expect to pay between €1,300 and €1,800 per month. Outside the city center, the prices drop significantly, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around €500 to €700 per month, and a three-bedroom apartment ranging from €900 to €1,300 per month. If you're looking to buy property, the average price per square meter in the city center is approximately €3,500 to €5,000, while outside the city center it's around €2,500 to €3,500," remarked one in Bonn.

William Russell

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.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

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.

Learn MoreGet Quote

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.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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