The cost of renting shared apartment rooms in major German cities has reached significant heights, presenting challenges for students. Berlin, the capital, sees an average price of 650 euros per room, making it the third most expensive city after Munich and Frankfurt. In Munich, a room costs around 800 euros, highlighting the financial strain faced by students in these urban areas.
Students receiving the BAföG housing allowance, capped at 380 euros, often struggle to find affordable accommodations, as this budget suffices in only 23 cities nationwide. In contrast, smaller cities in East Germany, such as Chemnitz, Magdeburg, and Dresden, offer more affordable options, with rents significantly lower than in the larger metropolitan areas.
The analysis, based on 8,800 listings across 88 cities, provides a comprehensive outlook on the housing market for the 2.7 million students in the country. Since the winter semester of 2013/2014, rental prices have seen a steep increase, with the average room cost rising from 335 euros to 493 euros.
The ongoing rise in rental costs has sparked calls for policy adjustments. Advocates urge the government to revise the BAföG housing allowance and increase the availability of student dormitories to alleviate the financial burden on students. As urban centers become less accessible due to high rents, finding affordable housing remains a pressing issue for the student population.
