Potsdam is one of the most popular cities for Berliners seeking a quieter environment with a high quality of life. The city offers a perfect blend of historic charm, green oases, and easy access to Berlin. But what should you consider when moving to Potsdam? Here are the most important points!
1. Why move to Potsdam? Advantages at a glance
✅ Cheaper rents than in Berlin-Mitte
✅ More green spaces & high quality of life
✅ Short routes to Berlin (S-Bahn, regional train, car)
✅ Good infrastructure for families and professionals
✅ Historical flair & cultural city (Sanssouci Palace, Babelsberg Film Park)
💡 Tip: If you want to work in Berlin but live in Potsdam, make sure you have a good public transport connections for stress-free commuting!
2. The best districts in Potsdam to live in
🏡 City center: Central, historical flair, but more expensive (Rental prices: approx. 14–18 €/m²)
🌳 Babelsberg: Creative district, many old buildings, good connection to Berlin (Rental prices: approx. 13–16 €/m²)
🌿 Bornstedt: Quiet residential area, ideal for families, near Sanssouci Park (Rental prices: approx. 11–14 €/m²)
🌊 Teltow Suburb: Perfect for commuters, cheaper than Berlin, fast connection to the capital (Rental prices: approx. 10–13 €/m²)
🌆 Golm: Scientific location with many students, affordable rents (Rental prices: approx. 9–12 €/m²)
💡 Tip: If you work in Berlin, Babelsberg or Teltower Vorstadt are ideal as they offer the fastest connection.
3. Change of address & authorities: What documents are required?
📍 Registration with the Potsdam Residents' Registration Office (within 14 days of moving)
✅ Identity card or passport
✅ Confirmation of occupancy from the landlord
✅ Registration form (available on the website of the city of Potsdam)
💡 Tip: Book your appointment for re-registration early, as waiting times are often long!
4. Costs & budget for moving to Potsdam
📦 Average moving costs from Berlin to Potsdam:
🔹 Small apartment (up to 50 m²) → 300 – 800 €
🔹 Medium-sized apartment (50–80 m²) → 800 – 1,500 €
🔹 Large apartment (from 100 m²) → 1,500 – 3,000 €
✅ Save costs by:
✔ Plan your move during the week & mid-month
✔ Compare multiple moving companies for the best price
✔ Book a van or moving helper early
💡 Tip: If you are moving for work reasons, check whether your employer covers moving costs or tax advantages are possible!
5. Commuting between Potsdam & Berlin: What you should know
🚆 Public transport:
✅ S-Bahn line S7 connects Potsdam with Berlin (approx. 30–40 minutes)
✅ Regional trains (RE1, RB21, RB22) travel faster and more comfortably
✅ BVG & VBB tickets are valid in both cities
🚗 By car:
✅ Via the A115 (Avus) in about 30 minutes to Berlin
✅ Plan for rush hour traffic jams
💡 Tip: If you commute regularly, it is worth Monthly ticket for tariff zone ABC, which applies to Berlin & Potsdam.
6. School, daycare & family life in Potsdam
🏫 Kindergartens & Schools:
✅ Many bilingual schools & daycare centers for expats
✅ Good public & private educational institutions
🏞 Leisure & Nature:
✅ Numerous lakes & parks for outdoor activities
✅ Family-friendly city with many playgrounds
💡 Tip: If you are moving with children, you should arrange a Reserve a daycare or school place, as places are often limited!
7. Where can you shop cheaply in Potsdam?
🛍 Supermarkets & weekly markets:
✅ Bio Company & LPG for sustainable products
✅ Weekly market at Bassinplatz for fresh food
✅ Cheaper shopping opportunities in Potsdam-West & Golm
💡 Tip: For larger purchases, it is worth a detour to Märkische shopping markets or Kaufland, as these are often cheaper.
8. Moving to Potsdam – Move yourself or hire a moving company?
🚚 Moving with a moving company:
✅ Ideal for larger apartments or long transport routes
✅ Less stress & faster move
✅ Furniture assembly & transport insurance included
🚐 Moving yourself with a van:
✅ More cost-effective for small households
✅ More personal effort, but flexible planning
💡 Tip: If you want to save money, compare several Moving offers & van rentals in Berlin & Potsdam.
Conclusion: Is it worth moving to Potsdam?
✔ For commuters: Perfect alternative to the high rents in Berlin
✔ For families: Quiet residential areas with lots of nature & good infrastructure
✔ For students & creatives: Affordable rents & proximity to universities
With the right planning and support, your move to Potsdam will be stress-free! 🚚
👉 Are you looking for a professional moving company for your move to Potsdam? Praktik Transport offers a reliable and stress-free moving service! Get a non-binding offer now! 🏠✨
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