Berlin is one of the most popular cities in Germany – but affordable housing is becoming increasingly scarce. Which districts are still affordable? Where can you find affordable housing? In this article, we will show you in which districts the price level is lower and how you can be successful in your apartment search.
1. How are rental prices developing in Berlin?
📊 1. Average rental prices in Berlin
✅ The average rent in Berlin is currently approx. €12.50 per square meter.
✅ In central districts such as Mitte or Prenzlauer Berg, there are even 16–20 €/m².
✅ In outlying districts there are still rents around 8–10 €/m².
📉 2. Why are rents rising?
✅ High demand meets limited housing supply.
✅ New buildings are often built as high-priced apartments.
✅ The rent cap was overturned in 2021, which led to many rents increasing again.
💡 Tip: Flexibility in choosing a district can help you find a cheaper apartment!
2. Where can I still find affordable apartments in Berlin?
🏡 1. The cheapest districts (average rent)
📍 Spandau – approx. 10 €/m²
✅ Quiet district with lots of greenery & good connections to the city.
📍 Marzahn-Hellersdorf – approx. 10.50 €/m²
✅ Many renovated prefabricated buildings and new buildings with affordable rents.
📍 Reinickendorf – approx. 10.70 €/m²
✅ Especially in Wittenau & Tegel there are still good deals.
📍 Neukölln (southern part) – approx. 11 €/m²
✅ Britz & Rudow still offer affordable apartments, away from the trendy neighborhood.
📍 Lichtenberg – approx. 11.50 €/m²
✅ Especially in Karlshorst & Rummelsburg there are many apartments at moderate prices.
💡 Tip: The outskirts are cheaper, but often have good connections to the city center!
3. Housing market & apartment search: Tips for affordable rents
🔍 1. Where can you find the best deals?
✅ Real estate portals like Immobilienscout24, eBay Kleinanzeigen & Immonet.
✅ Housing associations & cooperatives often offer cheaper apartments.
✅ Social networks & Facebook groups for shared rooms & private rentals.
⏳ 2. Be quick & stay flexible
✅ Apartments in Berlin are often awarded within a few hours.
✅ If you want to have a better chance, you should apply for several offers at once.
💬 3. Use personal contact & networks
✅ Many apartments are rented via acquaintances or contacts forgive.
✅ Those who are professionally or privately networked can have better opportunities.
💡 Tip: A well-prepared application package (Schufa, proof of salary, certificate of rent arrears) increases your chances of success!
4. What alternatives are there for affordable housing?
🏠 1. Shared apartment instead of own apartment
✅ A shared apartment can be a cheap solution, especially in expensive districts.
🏡 2. Use apartment swap
✅ Platforms like “Tauschwohnung.de” help to exchange apartments with other tenants.
🌍 3. Explore the outskirts of Berlin
✅ Cities like Potsdam, Oranienburg or Erkner often offer lower rents with good connections.
💡 Tip: A short commute should also be taken into account when making your decision – sometimes a remote location is worth it!
5. Avoid common mistakes when looking for an apartment
❌ Responding to offers too late → Solution: Check portals regularly & activate notifications.
❌ Not having all documents ready → Solution: Always keep your application folder up to date.
❌ Focus only on expensive central districts → Solution: Examine alternatives in outlying districts.
❌ Do not make any on-site inspections → Solution: Only view apartments that really fit your budget.
💡 Tip: Patience and a broad search radius will help you find the best apartment!
6. Checklist for a successful apartment search in Berlin
📌 Before searching:
✅ Set a budget & research realistic rental prices.
✅ Have important documents ready (Schufa, proof of salary, certificate of rent arrears).
📦 During the search:
✅ Use multiple platforms simultaneously & respond quickly to offers.
✅ Activate contacts & social networks.
🏡 After the commitment:
✅ Check the rental agreement carefully and clarify any open questions with the landlord.
✅ Calculate deposit and additional costs carefully.
💡 Tip: A well-organized apartment search saves time and increases your chances of finding an affordable apartment!
Conclusion: How to find affordable apartments in Berlin
✔ Outlying districts are often cheaper than the city center.
✔ A quick response to apartment advertisements increases the chances of success.
✔ Networks and alternative housing models can be a solution.
✔ With the right strategy and patience, affordable housing in Berlin is still possible.
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