How Expensive is Munich for Students? (Budget Guide 2025)
Contents
Munich is one of the most expensive cities in Germany, mainly because of high rent and living costs. However, with good financial planning, students can manage their expenses. Home to prestigious institutions like Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) and the Technical University of Munich (TUM), it attracts thousands of international students each year.
This guide will cover the average cost of living in Munich, including student housing, public transport, health insurance, and other essential expenses students need to consider.
Facts About Munich
Federal State
Population
Student population
International Students
What Are the Major Expenses for Students in Munich?
Accommodation Costs
Finding student accommodation in Munich can be challenging due to high demand and limited supply. The average rent depends on the type of housing:
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Student dormitories: €280 - €400 per month (cheapest but limited availability)
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Shared apartments (WG): €400 - €800 per month (popular option among students)
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Private apartments: €1,000 - €1,500 per month (most expensive choice)
Since rent in Munich is one of the highest living costs, students should start their housing search early and use university portals, WG-Gesucht, and Facebook groups to find affordable options.
Studierendenwerk München offers student dormitories, but demand is high, so applying early is essential. If you don’t secure a spot, consider shared apartments (WGs) or more affordable suburbs like Garching or Freising.
💡 Munich is home to top universities, such as LMU, TUM, and HM. Learn more about them here.
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Food and Grocery Expenses
On average, students in Munich spend between €150 and €250 per month on groceries. The most affordable supermarkets are Aldi, Lidl, and Netto, where students can find budget-friendly products. For those preferring premium-quality items, Rewe, Edeka, and Bio stores offer a wider selection at higher prices.
- Mensa (student canteen): The most cost-effective dining option, with meals priced between €3 and €5.
- Budget restaurants: Expect to pay around €10 to €15 per meal.
- Cooking at home: Highly recommended for saving money on food expenses.
Transportation Costs
Munich has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trams, and the U-Bahn. Most students take advantage of the semester ticket, which is included in university fees and allows unlimited travel within designated zones. For those without a semester ticket, a monthly student pass costs €59.
Other transport options include cycling, as second-hand bikes can be purchased for around €100. While e-scooters and car-sharing services are available throughout the city, they can be costly for daily use.
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Health Insurance for Students
Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. Public health insurance is the most common choice for students under 30, costing approximately €110 per month. Students over 30 or those who prefer additional flexibility can opt for private health insurance, though prices vary based on the provider and coverage.
📖 To learn more about the difference between private and public health insurance and the best-suited insurance for students, read more here.
Utilities and Internet
- Electricity, water, and heating: €150 - €200 per month.
- Internet plans: Around €30 per month (providers include Vodafone, Telekom, and O2).
- Mobile phone services: Prepaid plans start at €10 per month, while contract-based plans offer more data and benefits at higher prices.
Other Living Expenses
Aside from rent, food, and transport, students should budget for additional living expenses:
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Study materials: €50 - €100 per semester (textbooks, stationery, etc.)
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Gym membership: €30 - €50 per month (university gyms are often cheaper)
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Entertainment & nightlife: €50 - €150 per month (movies, clubs, concerts)
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Miscellaneous expenses: Around €100 per month to cover personal costs
Budget Breakdown for a Student Studying in Munich
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How to Save Money as a Student Living in Munich
Munich is one of the most expensive cities in Germany, but with smart budgeting, students can still manage their expenses and enjoy life in the city. Here’s how you can save money while studying in Munich:
1. Find Affordable Student Housing
Rent is the biggest expense in Munich, and student dormitories are the most affordable option. Studierendenwerk München offers student housing, but demand is high, so apply as early as possible. If you don’t secure a spot in a dormitory, consider shared apartments (WGs) on WG-Gesucht or living in more affordable suburbs like Garching, Freising, or Neuperlach, which are well-connected to the city by public transport.
For more detailed accommodation options, check out this guide on student housing in Germany.
2. Use Public Transportation Wisely
Munich has a well-connected public transport system, and students benefit from the semester ticket, which allows unlimited travel on U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses. The semester ticket is already included in many university fees, making it a cost-effective way to get around.
Another great alternative is cycling. Munich is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes, and you can find cheap second-hand bikes on eBay Kleinanzeigen or at flea markets.
For more details on how the semester ticket works, visit this guide.
3. Cook at Home & Shop Smart
Eating out in Munich, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Marienplatz or Schwabing, can be expensive. Save money by cooking at home and shopping at discount supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, or Netto. If you want fresh and affordable produce, visit local markets like Viktualienmarkt (just before closing time for discounts) or the Elisabethmarkt.
For even cheaper options, check out apps like Too Good To Go, where bakeries, supermarkets, and restaurants sell unsold food at discounted prices.
4. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Munich has plenty of student discounts that can help you save on entertainment, shopping, and cultural activities. Always carry your student ID to get discounts at:
- Museums & Theaters – Many places, including the Deutsches Museum and Pinakotheken, offer reduced student rates.
- Public Sports Facilities & Gyms – University sports (ZHS) offer affordable gym memberships and sports courses for students.
- Restaurants & Cafés – Some places near university campuses offer student deals. Check Mensa (student cafeterias) at LMU, TU München, or HM for budget-friendly meals.
5. Work Part-Time to Cover Expenses
Munich has many part-time job opportunities for students, with wages starting at €12–15 per hour. Popular jobs include:
- Working in cafés, retail stores, or restaurants
- Student assistant (HiWi) jobs at universities
- Tutoring or babysitting
- Internships in companies and startups
You can find jobs on platforms like Jobmensa, Zenjob, or university career portals.
6. Buy Second-Hand & Swap Items
Save money on essentials by buying second-hand. Websites like eBay Kleinanzeigen, Vinted, or local Facebook groups offer affordable furniture, clothes, and textbooks. You can also find book swaps and student flea markets on university campuses at the beginning of the semester.
Conclusion
Although the cost of living in Munich for students is high, careful budgeting can make it manageable. Living costs depend on lifestyle choices, but students can reduce their expenses in Munich by opting for affordable housing, using student discounts, and working part-time.
Planning ahead will ensure a fulfilling student experience without excessive financial strain for those studying at Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU), the Technical University of Munich (TUM), or any public university.
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