Expat Germany

Germany is one of the top destinations for American expats. Along with France and Italy, Germany ranks extremely high on quality of life, education, architecture, museums and history. Many Americans come to Germany for a university education or to serve in the US military which is stationed in Germany and decide to stay for the long term. Germany has a lot to love about it including nightlife, well built infrastructure, lots of shopping, many quaint villages and modern cities.

For those looking for a lifestyle on par with America, Germany is definitely it. Germany makes it easy for many tourists to stay inside her borders and become long term expats. In addition, many businesses have offices in Germany due to the thriving economy, manufacturing, engineering and banking sectors. If you are looking for a comfortable home away from home, definitely check out Germany.

Climate

Germany has a seasonal climate, similar to many states and cities in the US. It should be noted that for the most part, the climate in Germany is less extreme. Germany has mild summers that occasionally creep up in the high 80's; however they mostly hover in the 70's and maybe the low 80's during the afternoon.

Because most of the country is far away from the sea and ocean, the winter tends to be colder (since it is not warmed by the sea). In addition, during the fall time, the temperatures can fall abruptly. During the spring time, the temperature does tend to be mild, but it can be rainy at times. Winter can be very cold, especially near the mountains or the north. Snow is extremely common and part of life in many places. However, for the most part the climate in Germany is very comfortable and accommodating.

Government

The government of Germany has made gigantic leaps and bounds over the last 50 years. It should be noted that while many Americans have big problems with the government and people of the early and middle part of the 20th century, once in Germany, you will notice that a lot has changed. Germans, while sometimes considered to be uptight, chilly and without a sense of humor, will definitely surprise you. The youth of Germany has definitely taken on a culture of their own and once you have lived in Germany for a couple of months, you will notice that many Germans are extremely warm and compassionate.

The government of Germany does have a socialist lean, but does help business grow and operate within its borders, in the EU (European Union) and throughout the world. The government of Germany is considered a parliamentary federalist republic and has a president and chancellor. Life in Germany is extremely safe, efficient and stable, as you would find in the states.

For expats looking to live in Germany, it is fairly easy as the government has good ties to the States. You can find out more information about visas and other requirements at the German Embassy in Washington D.C. In addition, you can also contact the United States Embassy in Berlin.

Tax System

Unfortunately, Germany has a very high tax rate. Germany along with France, rank as some of the highest in the world for taxation, however it should be noted that salaries are very high, which balances things out quite a bit. The highest tax rate for individual income tax is 44.3%. The top corporate tax rate is much lower at 25%; however there may be additional surcharges in the future. Besides these two taxes, there are also other taxes including a value added tax (VAT) and a trade tax.

Medical Care

Germany has some of the finest medical care in the world. There health care is on par and sometimes above par compared to the United States. There are plenty of modern hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices, pharmacies and dentists throughout Germany. Even in the outlying region, you will never be too far from medical care.

Germany does has universal healthcare for its citizens and many expats that work for companies located in Germany are able to pay for health insurance usually through the company that you work for. For legal expats, you can apply for health care and for those that are considered tourists; you can easily purchase international travelers insurance to protect you from unexpected medical emergencies.

For the most part, Germany's health care can be expensive if paid for out of pocket, many Germans actually leave the country and go to other countries for more affordable care that is cosmetically related.

Real Estate

Many expats that live in Germany for a long period of time choose to purchase real estate. For the most part, purchasing real estate is simple and straight forward. Laws are clear and the judicial system upholds contracts usually without delay. The only thing that stops many expats from investing in real estate is the high prices. Not only is real estate usually more than many cities in America, the Euro has been very strong the last few years, making prices even more out of reach.

For expats looking to spend a short period of time, you can easily rent a home or an apartment. Apartments are extremely modern and usually built very well. They include lots of amenities that aren't even included in the states in many cases. Living in Germany is very comfortable and most homes accentuate that comfort. It is important to note that for many homes and apartments, the size will be smaller than most Americans are used to, but they are more than adequate.

For apartment rents, expect in major cities such as Frankfurt, Berlin, Munich and Hamburg monthly fees from 600 Euros to 1200 Euros for moderate housing. Luxury housing is obviously much more. For students and those on low budgets, your best bet is to share a flat with a bunch of roommates. Expect to spend approximately 400 Euros per month when sharing a flat.

If you would like to buy property, expect the cost of a moderate 3 bedroom home to cost at least 200K Euros and in many cases more. Condos and apartments might be slightly cheaper, but in major cities, they can be expensive as well.

Shopping

Shopping in Germany mimics shopping in the United States. In fact, most expats will feel at home with modern shopping malls, large discount box stores and boutique shops. Germany has wonderful shopping and you can find practically anything you need or would want.

Besides shops, you can find plenty of delicious restaurants. While German food might not be the most appetizing to Americans in the states, once in Germany, the food is absolutely delicious. Beer is extremely important in Germany's culture and most expats as well as tourists from all over the world rate their beer as the top in the world. There are plenty of beer halls, beer gardens and pubs all over the country.

In Germany, you will also find a great nightlife and club scene. The club scene is alive and well in the major cities and in some cases world renown.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Germany is similar to that of living in America. There are many cities and areas where the cost of living is very high, for instance Berlin, Bohn and Cologne and other places which are usually located in the former eastern bloc country of East Germany where the cost of living is far less.

Again it is important to consider that wages in Germany are usually very high and do equal out the high cost of living. However, for the high cost of living, you do get your money's worth.