Wilhelmshaven: Cost of living below national average – How to save!

Wilhelmshaven: Cost of living below national average – How to save!

Recent analyzes show that Wilhelmshaven in the North Sea region is an extremely attractive place to live. The Cologne Institute of German Economics and the Federal Institute for Building, Urban and Spatial Planning examined the cost of living in 400 German districts and independent cities. Wilhelmshaven does particularly well.

The cost of living here, with a value of 92.3, is well below the national average of 100. This means that residents of Wilhelmshaven have to spend around 30% less compared to their colleagues in Munich. Wilhelmshaven also performs well compared to its neighbor Friesland - here there is only a 2% difference, as the Friesland district has an index of 94.3.

place in a nationwide comparison

In the nationwide ranking, Wilhelmshaven takes 349th place and is therefore better placed than the districts of Wittmund (323), Emden (302), Friesland (295), Leer (291), Aurich (284) and Oldenburg (236). Despite the challenges of high inflation rates in 2022 to 2024, Wilhelmshaven remains an attractive option for those who want to live in an economically stable environment.

Another exciting aspect is the composition of average consumer spending in Germany. In 2022, households spent an average of 2,846 euros per month, of which 36% went on housing and energy. In Wilhelmshaven, housing costs are around 22% lower than the national average. For comparison: In Munich, housing costs are almost 80% above average, while in the Friesland district they are only 17% below average.

A look at local conditions

In addition to the affordable cost of living, Wilhelmshaven impresses with its lively community and numerous leisure opportunities. The city offers everything you could want from a coastal town, from fresh sea air to pretty views.

These positive living conditions could be further promoted, especially at a time when many people are looking for new professional challenges. A particularly important topic that has recently gained importance is the language skills requirements for work permits. A recent report from the government agency into English proficiency requirements shows that employers need to ensure new employees are equipped with appropriate language skills. It is recommended that you take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) to demonstrate the required knowledge. The minimum scores are 60 for the TOEFL and 600 for the TOEIC. This regulation, in force since November 1, 2025, aims to facilitate the integration of non-English-speaking workers.

For more detailed information about the requirements or further questions, interested parties can contact the Compliance Department at 444-1056 or visit the government website.

Overall, it shows that Wilhelmshaven is not only very popular as a place to live, but also as a job market. Anyone who is lucky enough to live here can look forward to a balanced price-performance ratio.