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Moving to Germany from the US is an exiting journey. Germany has a rich culture and history, and is home to big events like Octoberfest in Bavaria. In this article we cover everything you need to know about moving to Germany from the USA, including visas, healthcare, moving costs, and a moving checklist.
Moving to Germany from the East Coast
| Property Size | Shipping Time | Estimated Cost |
| 1-bedroom | 6 – 9 weeks | $5,700 – $7,600 |
| 2-bedroom | 3 – 5 weeks | $7,500 – $10,200 |
| 3-bedroom | 3 – 5 weeks | $13,200 – $17,700 |
| 4-bedroom | 3 – 5 weeks | $14,200 – $19,000 |
Moving to Germany from the West Coast
| Property Size | Shipping Time | Estimated Cost |
| 1-bedroom | 7 – 10 weeks | $6,800 – $9,200 |
| 2-bedroom | 5 – 7 weeks | $9,100 – $12,300 |
| 3-bedroom | 5 – 7 weeks | $16,100 – $21,800 |
| 4-bedroom | 5 – 7 weeks | $17,300 – $23,100 |
Disclaimer: the rates shown above are just mere estimates. Your moving costs will vary depending on your actual point of departure, the size of your move, and the service rates of the company.
Have a look at the factors influencing moving costs.
Take a look at the 3 best international removal companies from the USA to Germany:
Want to make sure you get the most accurate price possible before moving to Germany from the US? By filling out the form below, you’ll be able to receive up to five free moving quotes!
As an American citizen, you can apply for a residence permit within the first 90 days of your arrival. You’ll need this residence permit to legally reside and work in Germany so we advise you to request a residence permit before moving to Germany at a German Consulate.
Cost of living in the USA vs. Germany in USD:
| Expense | Cost of Living in the US | Cost of Living in Germany |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $20.00 | $16.34 |
| Cappuccino | $5.22 | $3.78 |
| 12 Eggs | $4.11 | $3.62 |
| Chicken 1(kg) | $12.15 | $13.47 |
| Monthly bus pass | $65.00 | $54.47 |
| Gasoline (1l) | $0.93 | $1.89 |
| 1 Bedroom apartment in centre | $1,741.86 | $965.60 |
*Source: Numbeo
Moving to Germany from the USA comes with some cultural differences and of course, logistics to think about. Keep reading to find out what you need to consider.
One of the most important things you should get done upon moving from the US to Germany is to open a German bank account.
To apply, you’ll likely be requested to provide the following documents:
Like in most countries, the German healthcare system is split into two sectors:
Some useful online platforms that can help you during your search for a job in Germany include:
Americans moving to Germany have the most luck finding a job in Berlin. The city is the most forgiving of non-German speakers and has the most jobs for Americans.
If you ship your vehicle separately from the rest of your move, the average cost of shipping will range between $900 to $1,300.
In order to carry out the shipping process, you’ll likely be requested to provide German customs with the following:
Moving pets to Germany from the USA is more than possible, provided that:
Are you interested in a more extensive moving checklist? Luckily, we have more than a few tricks up our sleeve to ensure a smooth move —check them out here!
We hope that you feel more than ready to pack up and embrace your new life in Germany. If you’re still in need of extra assistance with moving to Germany check out the pages linked below and our FAQs.
Our mission is to be your go-to moving platform for you and your loved ones. With our years of expertise and extensive network of movers, we’re here to make your moving process as stress-free as possible.
