On the whole, Germany is a moderately expensive country in which to live. According to one recent cost of living survey, prices for expatriates in Germany’s two most expensive cities, Munich and Frankfurt, are about 13 percent lower than those in New York and nearly 40 percent lower than in London. Prices in Munich and Frankfurt are about equal to those in Los Angeles, the second most expensive city in North America, and Birmingham, the third most expensive city in the United Kingdom. Prices in Berlin and Dusseldorf are slightly lower than in Munich and Frankfurt, and 14 percent lower than in New York.

In a comparison of the highest living expenses in the EU, Germany comes in eighth. An average three-person household pays almost 103 USD per month for electricity. Heating costs are about 184 USD per month for an annual consumption of 20,000 kWh and petrol prices fluctuate between 6.60 USD and 8.30 USD per liter. On the other hand, prices for household objects, stationery, newspapers and other everyday items are lower than other European nations. Food prices in particular are much lower in Germany than in most other EU countries. This is due to the number of small, individual shops and supermarkets.

This is just a sample of what you'll find in the complete Germany guide.