Cost of living for an au pair in Berlin and Munich: budget and pocket money
AuPair Connect — Équipe Conformité · Last updated 9 September 2026 · Reviewed by TSO
Direct answer
In Germany, housing outside the placement varies sharply: Berlin stays affordable while Munich is distinctly pricier. Conventional pocket money sits around €280 a month and a transport pass costs €30–60 depending on the city.
Germany has a reputation for being expensive, but the real cost depends on the city: Berlin and Munich do not run on the same budget.
Berlin: the most flexible budget
At au pair in Berlin, a shared flat room often runs €400 to €600, with wide variation by neighbourhood. The monthly transport ticket covers the city at a moderate cost.
Free or cheap culture is everywhere, which lets you go out without blowing the monthly budget.
Munich: higher prices
At au pair in Munich, rents rank among the highest in Germany, often above €700 for a room. The price level reflects the region’s economic strength.
In return, families frequently contribute to German course fees and offer a very structured setting.
What the placement really covers
Housing and meals are standard, but pocket money, transport and classes vary from family to family. Put all three in writing in the agreement.
As of 2026, conventional pocket money is around €280 a month. Budget extra for insurance and administrative steps.
Saving despite the prices
German prices do not rule out saving: they simply force choices. A family that hosts you free of charge and a city cheaper than Munich completely change how much you can put aside.
Watch transport and leisure spending, the two most elastic lines. A monthly pass and low-cost outings are usually enough to keep a budget balanced.
Log your spending for two months: comparing forecasts with reality reveals what to adjust without losing the joy of the year.
What the agreement must state
The au pair agreement should state the pocket money amount, who covers housing and meals, and any contribution to classes and insurance.
Check holidays and childcare hours too: those shape your free time, and therefore your leisure spending.
Keep a signed copy and a record of payments. A written trail prevents misunderstandings and protects both sides.
Comparing offers objectively
Ask every family the same three questions: how much pocket money, what is covered, and how many childcare hours per week. Identical questions make offers genuinely comparable.
Write the answers in a simple table and add a column for the city’s average rent. The family that covers housing clearly outweighs a slightly higher allowance.
Keep the agreement in writing and review it after the trial month. A short revision at that point is normal and keeps expectations aligned.
Prepared by AuPair Connect — Compliance Team
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Go further
More guides from the same country to prepare your au pair year.