Berlin or Leipzig? More and more Berliners are considering moving to the Saxon metropolis. Leipzig attracts with affordable rents, a growing economy, and a high quality of life. But is the move really worth it? Here are the most important things you should know before moving to Leipzig.
1. Why are so many people moving from Berlin to Leipzig?
✅ Low rents & more living space – Compared to Berlin, rents in Leipzig are 30–50 % cheaper.
✅ Good job opportunities – Growing start-up scene, creative industries & industrial companies.
✅ Less stress, better quality of life – Less traffic jams, fewer crowds of tourists, more green spaces.
✅ Cultural diversity – Leipzig has a vibrant music, art and culture scene.
✅ Good connections to Berlin – With the ICE in approx. 1 hour 15 minutes in Berlin.
💡 Tip: If you want to work in Berlin but live in Leipzig, check the Commuting options by ICE or long-distance bus.
2. Rental prices: How much cheaper is Leipzig?
📍 Average rents (as of 2024):
🔹 Berlin: approx. 16–22 €/m²
🔹 Leipzig: approx. 9–13 €/m²
🏡 Example for a 2-room apartment (60 m²):
✔ Berlin: approx. 1,000–1,400 € including heating
✔ Leipzig: approx. 650–900 € including heating
✅ Where can I find affordable apartments in Leipzig?
- Plagwitz & Lindenau – Creative scene, alternative districts
- Südvorstadt & Connewitz – Young, lively & student-friendly
- Gohlis & Schleußig – Family-friendly & green
- Center-East & Center-South – Central but still affordable districts
💡 Tip: Start searching early! The demand for apartments in Leipzig is increasing rapidly.
3. Working in Leipzig: What does the job market look like?
🚀 Growing industries in Leipzig:
✅ Start-ups & IT – Leipzig is becoming increasingly popular as a “little Berlin” for digital companies.
✅ Automotive industry – Porsche & BMW have factories in Leipzig.
✅ Media & Creative Industries – MDR, publishers, agencies & design studios.
✅ Logistics & E-Commerce – DHL hub & large online retailers like Amazon.
💡 Tip: If you do not have a job in Leipzig yet, check job boards or Ask your current employer about a remote option.
4. Living in Leipzig: What is different from Berlin?
🏡 Living & Lifestyle:
✔ Leipzig is more relaxed and less hectic than Berlin.
✔ More green spaces & parks (e.g. Clara Zetkin Park, Auwald).
✔ Very bicycle-friendly – many car-free paths.
🎭 Culture & Leisure:
✔ Diverse music scene – from classical to indie.
✔ Alternative cultural scene in Plagwitz & Connewitz.
✔ Cheaper restaurants, bars & leisure activities.
🎓 Education & Family:
✔ Good schools & universities (Uni Leipzig, HTWK Leipzig).
✔ Many family-friendly neighborhoods with large playgrounds and parks.
✔ Very good daycare centers & kindergartens compared to Berlin.
💡 Tip: If you are moving with family, Schleußig, Gohlis or Reudnitz particularly recommended.
5. How much does it cost to move from Berlin to Leipzig?
📦 Average moving costs (Berlin → Leipzig, approx. 190 km)
🔹 Small apartment (up to 50 m²) → 600 – 1,200 €
🔹 Medium-sized apartment (50–80 m²) → 1,200 – 2,000 €
🔹 Large apartment (from 100 m²) → 2,000 – 3,500 €
✅ Tips for saving money:
✔ Obtain and compare multiple moving quotes
✔ Move yourself with a rental van (e.g. from SIXT or Buchbinder)
✔ Sell or give away unnecessary furniture (less transport costs)
✔ Set up a forwarding order with the post office
💡 Tip: If you are from move for professional reasons, you can Deduct moving costs from your taxes!
6. Administrative procedures after moving to Leipzig
📍 Important changes of address in Leipzig:
✅ Residents’ Registration Office: Registration within 14 days after the move
✅ Vehicle re-registration: If you own a car, you must register it in Leipzig
✅ GEZ (broadcasting fee) re-registration
✅ Inform employers and insurance companies about your new address
💡 Tip: Book an appointment at the Leipzig Citizens' Office online early, as waiting times are often long!
7. Conclusion: Is it worth moving from Berlin to Leipzig?
✔ Cheaper rents & more living space – Perfect for anyone who finds Berlin too expensive.
✔ More peace & quality of life – Less traffic jams, more green spaces.
✔ Emerging labor market – Especially in IT, logistics & media.
✔ Fast connection to Berlin – With the ICE only 1 hour 15 minutes removed.
✔ Cultural diversity & creative scene – Leipzig is an exciting alternative to Berlin.
🚚 Conclusion: Leipzig is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of a big city without having to deal with Berlin's rental madness!
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