Moving to a new city is about more than work or school – understanding living costs is key for budgeting, whether you’re a Siemens professional, an international student, or a relocating family.
Erlangen, a mid-sized Bavarian city, combines excellent career opportunities with a high quality of life. It’s more affordable than Munich, yet slightly pricier than smaller towns in Bavaria.
Housing Expenses
Housing is usually the largest monthly cost. Erlangen’s rental market is influenced by Siemens’ presence and FAU University’s student population.
Traditional Rentals
- One-bedroom (city center): €1,000–1,200/month
- One-bedroom (outside center): €800–1,000/month
- Three-bedroom family apartment: €1,600–2,000/month
- Deposits: 2–3 months’ rent, plus furniture and utilities
Traditional rentals are often unfurnished, requiring newcomers to buy everything from beds to washing machines – a hidden cost for expats and families.
BOOK-IT Furnished Apartments
- Studios and one-bedroom apartments: from €2,000/month (all-inclusive)
- Two-bedroom family apartments for longer stays
- Fully furnished with kitchens, Wi-Fi, and laundry
- No deposit or furniture costs
BOOK-IT apartments allow immediate move-in and transparent budgeting, making life easier for professionals and families.
Transport
Erlangen is compact, and many residents cycle rather than drive.
- Public transport pass: €65–80/month
- Single ticket: €3–3.50
- Cycling: free after renting or using a BOOK-IT bike
BOOK-IT Mobility
- BOOK-IT Bikes for sustainable daily commuting
- Electric cars (BMW i3, others) for longer trips
Owning a car in Germany costs €500–700/month (insurance, fuel, taxes), so these options save money and reduce emissions.
Food and Dining
- Groceries: €250–350/month per person, €600–800/month for a family of four
- Cafeteria lunch: €8–12
- Mid-range restaurant dinner: €15–25/person
- Local beer: €3.50–4.50
Having a kitchen in your apartment allows cooking at home, saving hundreds per month.
Utilities and Internet
- Traditional rentals: electricity, heating, water €200–300/month; Internet/TV €50–70/month
- BOOK-IT: all-inclusive pricing, no hidden fees
Education and Childcare
- Public schools: free, in German
- International schools near Nuremberg: €8,000–15,000/year
- Kindergarten/daycare: €200–400/month
BOOK-IT apartments are conveniently located near schools and childcare centers.
Leisure and Entertainment
- Gym: €30–60/month
- Cinema ticket: €10–12
- Concerts/cultural events: €20–80
- Weekend trips: €20–40/day
Close proximity to parks, shopping, and cultural venues reduces additional commuting costs.
Healthcare
- Public insurance: 14–15% of gross salary (shared with employer)
- Private insurance: €300–600/month
- University Hospital Erlangen ensures top-quality healthcare
Erlangen vs. Munich
- Housing: 20–30% cheaper
- Transport: similar costs, more bike-friendly
- Food: slightly cheaper
- Education: comparable
Guest Experiences
- Siemens consultant: “BOOK-IT removed the stress of furniture and utility contracts.”
- PhD student: “Cooking at home saved hundreds per month. Wi-Fi was excellent.”
- Family from France: “Transparent pricing made budgeting easy.”
Conclusion
In 2025, Erlangen offers a balanced cost of living. BOOK-IT apartments simplify housing, provide all-inclusive amenities, and save time and money.
👉 Book your furnished apartment at book-it.de for transparent and stress-free living in Erlangen.