Cost of living

One of the best parts about living in Germany, is that you do not have to spend a fortune to live in one of the older European countries. A budget of 1300 DM per month (US$ 596) is a reasonable amount, so for one university year it would come to about US$ 5400.

Some Examples of Costs:
Rent: University accommodation at the University of Cologne would be between 250 and 600 DM (US$ 115 to 275)
Rent: Private accommodation in Cologne would be between 350 and 800 DM (US$ 160 to 370)
Public transportation: In Berlin, a ticket for all zones (bus or metro) 4,50 DM (US$ 2)
Food/Drinks/other costs:
Beer: 3 to 5 DM (US$ 1.40 to $ 2.30)
Coca cola: 4 DM (US$ 1.80)
Coffee: 3 DM (US$ 1.80)
A meal at a university restaurant/cafeteria: 3,50 DM (US$ 1.60) for students and 7 DM (US$ 3.20) for non-students
Meal in a good restaurant in Germany: 11 to 25 DM (US$ 5 to 11.50)
Newspaper: 3 DM (US$ 1.40)
Cinema: 13/14 DM (US$ 5.90 / 6.40)
Nightclub: entrance is normally free or 5 / 12 DM (US$ 2.30 / 5.50)
Jeans: 70 / 80 DM (US$ 32 / 36.50)