More and more Berliners are moving to Cottbus – be it because of the cheaper rents, peace and quiet or proximity to natureAt the same time, connections to Berlin remain important for many, whether for work or social reasons. Here are the most important tips for a smooth move from Berlin to Cottbus.
1. Why do Berliners move to Cottbus?
✅ Cheaper rents & more living space – Apartments are much more affordable than in Berlin
✅ Quiet & relaxed lifestyle – No big city stress, less traffic
✅ Fast connection to Berlin – With the RE2 in approx. 1 hour & 20 minutes in Berlin
✅ High quality of life & lots of nature – Spreewald & lakes nearby
✅ Growing job opportunities – Especially in the areas of energy, technology & science
💡 Tip: Anyone who works in Berlin but is looking for a cheaper and quieter alternative will find an attractive option in Cottbus.
2. Commuting from Cottbus to Berlin – What do you need to consider?
🚆 Public transport & rail connections:
✅ Regional Express RE2 – Direct connection to Berlin Central Station (1:20 hrs.)
✅ VBB fares for commuters – Monthly tickets for Berlin-Cottbus are worthwhile for regular journeys
🚗 By car:
✅ About the A13 in approx. 1.5 hours to Berlin
✅ Mostly traffic-free route, but longer travel times during rush hour
💡 Tip: If you commute regularly, it is worth BahnCard 50 or 100to save travel costs.
3. The best residential areas in Cottbus for Berlin movers
🏡 Which districts are particularly popular?
✅ City center & Old Town – Central, short distances, perfect for commuters
✅ Sandow & Ströbitz – Quiet residential areas with good infrastructure
✅ Sachsendorf & Spremberger Vorstadt – Affordable rents & modernized prefabricated buildings
✅ Branitz & Merzdorf – Family-friendly with lots of nature
💡 Tip: The rents in Cottbus are significantly cheaper than in Berlin – often under 9 €/m².
4. Working in Berlin, living in Cottbus – is that possible?
🚀 Advantages of a commuter lifestyle:
✅ More living space for less money – Perfect for families & professionals
✅ No daily city noise – Relaxed living after work
✅ Good rail connections – Plannable commutes with the RE2
💡 Tip: If your job in Berlin allows you to work from home, Cottbus can be a perfect choice for the Commuting a few days a week be.
5. Important changes of address & administrative procedures after the move
📌 What needs to be done after the move?
✅ Residents’ Registration Office: Change of address within 14 days
✅ Obtain confirmation of occupancy from the landlord
✅ Vehicle re-registration (if you own a car)
✅ GEZ (broadcasting fee) re-registration
✅ Update your address with banks, insurance companies & employers
💡 Tip: Appointments at Book online early for the Cottbus Residents' Registration Officeto avoid waiting times.
6. Leisure & quality of life in Cottbus
🏞 Nature & Relaxation:
✅ Branitz Park – Perfect for walks & relaxation
✅ Spreewald & Lakes – Just a short drive away
🎭 Culture & Entertainment:
✅ Cottbus State Theatre – Cultural highlight of the city
✅ Old town with cafes & restaurants – Small but fine gastronomy scene
💡 Tip: A Bicycle is idealto move around Cottbus flexibly and in an environmentally friendly way.
7. Checklist for moving from Berlin to Cottbus
📌 4–6 weeks before the move:
✅ Find an apartment & sign a rental agreement
✅ Book a moving company or rental car
✅ Terminate your old apartment & look for a new tenant
📌 2 weeks before the move:
✅ Pack moving boxes & dismantle furniture
✅ Change of address & plan appointments with authorities
✅ Set up a forwarding order with the post office
📌 On moving day:
✅ Note meter readings in the old and new apartment
✅ Systematically move furniture and boxes to your new home
✅ Organize first purchases & furnishings
💡 Tip: If you are moving with children, you should start looking for a Daycare or school in Cottbus seek!
Conclusion: Is it worth moving from Berlin to Cottbus?
✔ Cheaper rents & quieter living – Perfect for families & commuters
✔ Good connections to Berlin – Perfect for those who want to continue working in the capital
✔ Lots of nature & high quality of life – Relaxation in the Spreewald and parks
✔ Attractive residential areas & low living costs
🚚 Conclusion: Cottbus is a great choice for those who want to live more affordably and quietly without losing their connection to Berlin.
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