Munich vs Berlin: Which German City Should You Move To?

Germany's two biggest expat destinations couldn't be more different. Munich is wealthy, orderly, and traditional; Berlin is creative, chaotic, and affordable. Here's how to choose.

Cost of Living: Berlin Wins (Decisively)

Berlin is 25-35% cheaper than Munich, primarily due to housing:^[?]

Salaries: Munich Wins

Munich salaries are 10-20% higher than Berlin, especially in finance and automotive:

• Software engineer: Munich €75-100k vs Berlin €65-90k
• Finance roles: Munich significantly higher
• Consulting: Munich €70-95k vs Berlin €60-85k
• Startups: Berlin pays comparably (and has more options)

Job Market: Depends on Your Industry

• Automotive: Munich (BMW, Audi nearby)
• Finance/Insurance: Munich (Allianz, Munich Re)
• Startups: Berlin (far more options)
• Tech/SaaS: Berlin (but Munich is growing)
• Creative industries: Berlin

Lifestyle: Completely Different

Munich

• Traditional Bavarian culture
• Alps accessible for skiing
• Orderly, clean, safe
• Beer gardens are institutions
• More conservative atmosphere
• Excellent for families

Berlin

• Creative, alternative culture
• World-famous nightlife and techno
• Diverse, international
• More relaxed about rules
• Startup energy
• Excellent for young professionals

International Community

Both have large expat communities, but they're different:

• Munich: More corporate expats, families, consultants
• Berlin: More creatives, entrepreneurs, digital nomads

The Verdict

Choose Munich if: You want higher salaries, work in automotive/finance, prefer order and tradition, or have a family.

Choose Berlin if: You want affordability, work in tech/startups/creative, prefer diversity and nightlife, or are in your 20s-30s.