Berlin is one of the most popular cities for digital nomads in Europe. This is not only due to the lively startup scene and the wide range of co-working options, but also to the atmosphere of the city: open, international, with a low-threshold welcome culture for people who don't want to stay forever. At the same time, Berlin is no longer a cheap place to live. But with good planning, you can get by with a reasonable budget.
This article is aimed at anyone considering Berlin as a base for the digital nomad lifestyle: What does it cost? Where do you live? How does the bureaucracy work? And what makes Berlin particularly attractive for remote workers?
Why Berlin for digital nomads?
Berlin has several structural advantages that set it apart from other European nomad destinations. The city has one of the largest tech and startup communities in Europe, which means: plenty of like-minded people, easy networking, events and meetups almost every day. At the same time, the price level is still moderate compared to London, Amsterdam, or Paris.
Another advantage: Berlin also takes nomads seriously culturally. Cafés with power outlets and WiFi are standard, not the exception. There are co-working spaces in every district. And the nightlife offers enough after work to keep boredom at bay.
What does it cost to live as a digital nomad in Berlin?
Expense category |
Budget |
Mid-range |
Comfortable |
Furnished apartment (studio) |
EUR 1,100 |
EUR 1,300 |
EUR 1,600+ |
Co-working (monthly pass) |
EUR 200 |
EUR 350 |
EUR 500 |
Groceries |
EUR 200 |
EUR 350 |
EUR 500 |
Transport (public transit) |
EUR 86 |
EUR 86 |
EUR 86 |
Eating out, leisure |
EUR 150 |
EUR 300 |
EUR 500+ |
Total per month |
approx. EUR 1,750 |
approx. EUR 2,400 |
approx. EUR 3,200+ |
The budget scenario assumes that you mostly cook for yourself, use a basic co-working package, and live in a more affordable district such as Neukölln or Lichtenberg. The mid-range scenario corresponds to a comfortable nomad lifestyle in a central district with regular restaurant visits.
Best districts for digital nomads
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are the classic go-to spots for nomads: a lively community, many co-working spaces, and cheaper prices than Mitte. Prenzlauer Berg is quieter and somewhat more expensive, but very pleasant for longer stays. Anyone seeking peace and quiet along with good infrastructure is well served in Charlottenburg. A wide range of furnished apartments in Berlin is available in all districts.
Bureaucracy for digital nomads
EU citizens can live and work in Berlin without a visa for as long as they wish. For non-EU citizens, the situation is more complicated. A tourist visa generally does not allow a stay longer than 90 days. Anyone wanting to stay longer needs a different residence permit, for example a freelance visa or a visa for self-employed activity.
Anyone staying in Berlin for longer than three months must register (anmelden). This requires a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation) from the landlord. Not all short-term rentals issue these, so it's best to clarify this before booking.
Co-working for nomads in Berlin
Berlin has one of the densest co-working offerings in Europe. For nomads who are only in the city for a few weeks or months, day passes or 10-visit cards are particularly well suited. Anyone wanting to meet like-minded people should look around Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, and Mitte. An overview of the options can be found at Co-working in Berlin.
Conclusion
Berlin is an excellent nomad destination: a strong community, a good range of co-working options, and a moderate price level for a capital city. Anyone wanting to move in flexibly can find furnished apartments from one month, all-inclusive, on Farawayhome.
Frequently asked questions
1. Do I need a visa as a digital nomad in Berlin?
EU citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens can enter without a visa for up to 90 days. For longer stays, a residence permit is required, for example a freelance visa.
2. What does it cost to live as a digital nomad in Berlin?
In the mid-range, you're looking at around 2,400 euros per month, including accommodation, co-working, groceries, and leisure. It can be cheaper, from around 1,750 euros.
3. Which Berlin district is best for nomads?
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are the classic go-to spots. Prenzlauer Berg is quieter and pleasant for longer stays.
4. Do I have to register as a digital nomad in Berlin?
Anyone staying longer than three months must register at the Einwohnermeldeamt (residents' registration office). This requires a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung from the landlord.
5. Is there a digital nomad community in Berlin?
Yes, a very active one. Meetups, Slack groups, and co-working events take place regularly, especially in Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, and Mitte.
Guide: Co-working in Berlin