Living Costs in Passau as a Student: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to choosing a city to live and study in, cost of living is often a deciding factor. In Passau, Germany, a city situated between three rivers, the Ilz, the Danube, and the Inn, the cost of living for students is generally considered to be moderate compared to other larger German cities. However, it can still vary based on personal habits and lifestyle choices. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a detailed insight into the typical expenses faced by students in Passau.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is the largest expense for most students in Passau. There are two main options: student dormitories and private apartments.
Student Dormitories:
Typically offered at the university, these dormitories come with included utilities such as heating, internet, electricity, and water. The monthly cost can range from 250 to 400. However, finding a dormitory might not always be easy, especially in a city popular with students.
Private Apartments:
For those who prefer a more independent living environment, private apartments are available at a higher cost. The monthly rent for a private apartment can range from 400 to 600, or even more for apartments located in central areas.
Food Expenses
Regarding food, the expense largely depends on whether you prefer to cook at home or eat out.
Groceries:
Buying groceries from local supermarkets can cost around 150 to 250 per month.
Eating Out:
Lunch at a budget restaurant can cost as little as 5 to 10 per meal.
Transportation
Passau, being a smaller city, has a well-developed public transportation system, which can be quite affordable. For students who rely on public transport, the monthly cost is approximately 30 to 50.
Many students, however, prefer to use alternative means of transportation such as cycling or walking due to the city's relatively small size (around 50,000 inhabitants).
Health Insurance
Health insurance is a mandatory expense for students in Germany. The typical cost for health insurance can be around 100 per month, depending on the provider and chosen plan.
Entertainment and Miscellaneous Expenses
Entertainment and miscellaneous expenses can vary widely based on individual habits. On average, you can expect to spend between 100 to 200 per month on activities such as going out, eating out, or other leisure activities.
Total Estimated Monthly Cost
Based on the above breakdown, the total estimated monthly cost for a student in Passau can range from 700 to 1200, depending on accommodation choices and lifestyle. However, costs can fluctuate based on personal habits and market conditions.
Personal Experience from Marco
According to Marco, a current student in Passau who is also nearing the completion of his Bachelors Thesis, his monthly expenses are broken down as follows:
Total monthly expenses: 900
Rent inclusive heating, internet, electricity, water, and fines: 470 Lunch in the cafeteria (Mensa): 60 per month Groceries: 140 Leisure activities: 100 Transportation: 30 (carsharing) University expenses: 157 (semester fee, sport center, printing, etc.)Much of his expenses are higher due to his central location and a larger apartment.
Historical Context and Current Situation
According to information provided by someone who lived in Passau between 2004 and 2007, the cost of living has increased over the years. The availability of small apartments has not kept up with the increasing demand, which can lead to higher rent in the central areas of the city. In particular, the cost of renting a flat between the rivers Danube and Inn, or South of the Inn, can range from 300 to 450 per month.
The city's small size (around 50,000 inhabitants) and the situation for refugees have exacerbated the housing situation, making it more challenging to find affordable accommodation.