Frankfurt stands as Germany's financial capital and a premier destination for international families, offering exceptional international schools and a truly global atmosphere. The city hosts numerous multinational corporations, creating a diverse, English-friendly environment with extensive expat support networks. World-class infrastructure includes one of Europe's busiest airports, providing excellent global connectivity. The compact city center combines modern skyscrapers with traditional German charm, while surrounding areas offer family-friendly suburbs with excellent amenities. Cultural offerings include outstanding museums, opera, and recreational facilities along the Main River. Healthcare and education systems rank among the world's best. While living costs are high, salaries typically compensate, and the international business environment creates numerous opportunities. The city's central European location enables easy travel throughout the continent, making Frankfurt ideal for internationally-minded families prioritizing career opportunities and educational excellence.

💰 Cost of Living

Monthly family budget estimates (USD)

At a Glance

$2,000

Avg. rent /mo

$12

Budget meal

$70

Mid-range dinner (2 ppl)

Dining & Drinks

Cappuccino$3.80

Domestic beer$4.50

Imported beer$5.50

Water (1.5L)$0.50

Groceries

Loaf of bread$2.50

Milk (1L)$1.20

Dozen eggs$3.00

Chicken (1 kg)$10

Transport

Taxi flag-drop$4.50

Taxi per km$2.50

Monthly transit pass$110

Gasoline (per liter)$1.75

Monthly Bills

Internet$35 /mo

Utilities (avg.)$280 /mo

Gym membership$45 /mo

Domestic help$1,400 /mo

Preschool / nursery$650 /mo

Comfortable

An apartment in Bockenheim or Bornheim, shopping at Aldi/Lidl and weekly markets, using the excellent public transit network, occasional dining out.

$4,200/mo

Rent$1,500

Groceries$500

Lifestyle & leisure$300

Transport$110

Utilities$220

Dining out$350

Healthcare$200

School fees (per child)$600

Domestic help$420

Established

A spacious flat in Westend or Nordend, an international school, a car, regular dining out, gym membership, and a part-time cleaner.

$8,500/mo

Rent$2,800

Groceries$750

Lifestyle & leisure$600

Transport$400

Utilities$300

Dining out$700

Healthcare$450

School fees (per child)$2,000

Domestic help$500

Premium

A luxury apartment in Westend or villa in Kronberg/Bad Homburg, top-tier international school, private healthcare, fine dining, country club, and frequent European travel.

$16,000/mo

Rent$5,000

Groceries$1,100

Lifestyle & leisure$1,500

Transport$800

Utilities$450

Dining out$1,500

Healthcare$800

School fees (per child)$3,500

Domestic help$1,350

Frankfurt is one of Germany's most expensive cities, driven by its role as Europe's financial hub. Housing costs are high, especially near the city center and international school zones. However, public transport is excellent and groceries remain reasonable by Western European standards.