Which country is cheaper: India or Germany

Salaries in Europe are high, but so is the cost of living in Germany. If you’ve opened this article, you’re probably wondering whether Germany is more expensive than India. Or is Germany cheaper than India? That could also be the case. This review will compare the cost of living in Germany vs India. Get ready, set, go!

Germany vs India: Rent

You probably know what’s happening now with the housing prices worldwide. Renting is the most significant part of living expenses in Germany and India. However, finding comfortable accommodation and having enough money for groceries and entertainment is still possible. So keep your head up.

Down below, you’ll find a table comparing the cost of living in Germany vs India (average rent prices, €)

So, is Germany more expensive than India? When it comes to renting, it is. As an expat, you should understand that your living expenses in Germany will drastically change. Therefore, you’ll have to adjust your daily routine and maybe find another job. Take it seriously, and don’t rush to move if you’re not financially prepared yet.

Also, remember, that after signing the contract with the landlord you will be expected to pay a security deposit. The amount of the deposit varies but usually is 1-2 monthly rents. If you’re a respectful and responsible tenant, the money will be returned to you after the contract expires.

If you live alone and your family is still in India, share your love and care with the fast and secure Profee transfers. They’ll appreciate your act and return the kindness back.

Germany vs India: Utilities

Don’t forget about the utilities, too. Most of the time, such expenses are not included in your monthly rent prices and change depending on how much you’ve spent. This could also become a massive part of your living expenses in India and Germany if you’re not wise with your electricity and water usage.

Let’s compare the average utility prices in Germany and India (€)

What is cheaper in Germany than in India? Not the utility prices. Looking at the numbers difference is painful, so we prepared an article about saving on your utility bills without losing up on comfort. Learning some tips is not a must, but a need.

Germany vs India: Groceries

We paid for a place to live, and now it’s time to get food. The amount of money spent on groceries is something you can control in terms of the cost of living in India and Germany. Shop smart:

1. Compare prices in different retail chains;
2. Participate in the shops’ reward programmes;
3. If you live with the family, buy large packages;
4. Always search for the discounts;
5. Buy only what you really need.

Here’s the table comparing some products’ prices in Germany and India (€)

The cost of living in Germany for Indians will be higher even for daily grocery shopping. To prepare yourself, you may start saving or investing. If you’re careful and cold-headed, this will help you earn some extra income.

Germany vs India: Clothing and shoes

Even if you are not planning to dress up and have a wardrobe full of high-fashion clothes, spending on sneakers, some T-shirts, and jeans is inevitable. Luckily, this is a part of the living expenses in India and Germany that you can adjust according to your needs.

Let’s compare some average clothing prices (€)

At this point, we can stop hoping and asking ourselves, “Is Germany cheaper than India?” After comparing the cost of living in India and Germany, we can conclude that the latter imposes a much greater financial burden. So, we need to act smart, for example, shopping second-hand to save funds and find unique items.

Germany vs India: Sports and leisure

We all need stress relief occasionally, whether a sweaty fitness training or a movie night. Therefore, we can’t exclude entertainment from the living expenses in India and Germany.

The cost of living in Germany vs India: hobbies, (€)

Of course, if you’re saving as an expat, these expenditures will be among the first ones to cut. Buy a yoga mat and find home workouts on YouTube. It will not replace personal training but will keep you in shape and in a good emotional state. The same goes for every hobby—you’ll find ways to spend less.

Germany vs India: Transportation

The cheapest options are walking and riding a bike, but it’s not always possible. So let’s have a look at the difference in the cost of living in Germany vs India regarding public transport and taxis (€).

While in Germany, we recommend obtaining a 49-euro monthly ticket. This way you can travel across the country and in the city you live in. It’s perfect for enjoying an expat life and reducing the cost of living in Germany for Indians.

Germany vs India: Salaries

In India, the average monthly net salary after taxation equals 548.82 EUR, while in Germany — 2,870.33 EUR. It explains the difference in the cost of living. When moving to Germany, it’s better to find a local job to receive enough funds to cover local expenses. Prepare a perfect CV, build your network and find your dream job in Germany.

Thus, you’ll not only help yourself to live comfortably but also become a hero to your loved ones back in India — with a German salary you could spoil them with gifts.

All the average numbers were taken from the website Numbeo.com and are valid for the beginning of February 2025.

Ways to save money as an expat in India

Throughout the article, we already mentioned some of the tips:

• Thrifting clothes instead of buying new items;
• Saving on transportation by walking, riding a bike, or purchasing monthly tickets;
• Following tips to reduce the cost of utility bills.

But what else?

One smart way to use your money is to send it back home with Profee. Thousands of expats make transfers daily to support their families, run a business, or invest. Profee makes it simple and beneficial by providing a client-friendly interface and unmatched exchange fees. You also won’t lose on hidden fees, as there are none.

Additional tips to save more

1. Create a budget plan and stick to It
2. Managing your finances efficiently starts with a well-structured budget. Track your monthly expenses, cut unnecessary costs, and allocate savings wisely.
3. Understand taxes and obligatory payments
4. As an expat, knowing your tax obligations is crucial. Some countries have tax treaties with India that may exempt you from double taxation. Research and ensure compliance to avoid legal or financial issues.
5. Cancel unused subscriptions
6. Check all your subscriptions — gym memberships, streaming services, and apps. Cancel the ones you rarely use to prevent money leakage.
7. Share accommodation costs
8. If you're living alone, consider getting a roommate to split rent and utility bills. Shared housing can significantly reduce monthly expenses while also providing companionship.

With these strategies, expats in India can effectively manage their finances and maximize their savings. Conclusion

In this article, we compared the cost of living in India and Germany. We checked the prices of rent, utility, groceries, clothing, leisure, and transportation. The numbers speak for themselves — living in Germany is much more expensive. What is cheaper in Germany than in India? Currently, nothing is among the basic expenses. So be ready, use your money wisely and prepare the budget in advance.

Once in Germany, follow our money-saving tips and send support back home with Profee!