🌍 Overview
As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Frankfurt, Germany, my home for several months. This vibrant city has a unique blend of traditional and modern charm, making it an attractive destination for remote workers. With its rich history, cultural landmarks, and thriving food scene, Frankfurt has something to offer every kind of digital nomad. From the picturesque River Main to the bustling streets of the financial district, Frankfurt is a city that seamlessly blends work and play. As a Frankfurt digital nomad, you’ll find that the city’s excellent infrastructure, high standard of living, and welcoming community make it an ideal base for exploring Europe and beyond.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live and work in Frankfurt, there are several areas that stand out for digital nomads. Here are three of my top recommendations:
- Sachsenhausen: This charming neighborhood is located just south of the city center and is known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy bars, and restaurants. Sachsenhausen is also home to many coworking spaces and startup accelerators, making it a hub for Frankfurt’s digital nomad community. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sachsenhausen can range from €900-€1,200 per month (approximately $1,000-$1,350 USD).
- Nordend: This up-and-coming neighborhood is located just north of the city center and is popular with young professionals and families. Nordend offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of parks, cafes, and restaurants to explore. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Nordend can range from €800-€1,100 per month (approximately $900-$1,200 USD).
- Bahnhofsviertel: This neighborhood is located in the heart of Frankfurt’s financial district and is known for its modern architecture, upscale bars, and restaurants. Bahnhofsviertel is also home to many coworking spaces and is a popular spot for networking events. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bahnhofsviertel can range from €1,000-€1,400 per month (approximately $1,100-$1,600 USD).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Frankfurt can be relatively high, especially when it comes to rent. However, with some careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to live comfortably in Frankfurt as a digital nomad. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Frankfurt can range from €800-€1,400 per month (approximately $900-$1,600 USD).
- Food: Eating out in Frankfurt can be expensive, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around €15-€25 per person (approximately $17-$28 USD). However, buying groceries and cooking at home can be more affordable, with a weekly shop costing around €50-€75 (approximately $56-$84 USD).
- Transport: Frankfurt has an excellent public transportation system, with a monthly pass costing around €75-€100 (approximately $84-$112 USD).
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Frankfurt can range from €200-€500 per month (approximately $220-$560 USD), depending on the location and amenities.
Internet & Coworking
Frankfurt has a well-developed infrastructure for digital nomads, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes with fast internet. Some popular coworking spaces include:
- WeWork: With several locations throughout the city, WeWork offers a range of membership options and amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking events.
- Impact Hub: Located in the heart of the financial district, Impact Hub offers a collaborative workspace with fast internet, meeting rooms, and a range of events and workshops.
- Coffee Fellows: This popular coffee chain has several locations throughout the city and offers fast internet, comfortable seating, and a range of coffee and snacks.
Internet speeds in Frankfurt are generally fast, with an average speed of 46 Mbps. However, it’s always a good idea to check the internet speed at your accommodation or coworking space before committing to a contract.
Frankfurt has a thriving digital nomad community, with plenty of meetups, events, and networking opportunities. Some popular groups and events include:
- Frankfurt Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other digital nomads, find accommodation, and get tips on living and working in Frankfurt.
- Nomad List: This online community has a dedicated group for Frankfurt, with over 500 members and a range of discussions and events.
- Startup Grind: This global startup community has a chapter in Frankfurt, with regular events and networking opportunities.
Culture & Lifestyle
Frankfurt has a rich cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and historical landmarks to explore. Some must-visit attractions include:
- Römerberg: This historic square is located in the heart of the city and is home to several important landmarks, including the Römer building and the Frankfurt Cathedral.
- Museum Riverbank: This scenic area is home to several museums, including the Städel Museum and the Museum of World Cultures.
- Frankfurt Book Fair: This annual event is one of the largest book fairs in the world and is a must-visit for book lovers.
Frankfurt is also known for its vibrant food scene, with a range of traditional German cuisine, international restaurants, and trendy bars. Some popular local dishes include:
- Schnitzel: A classic German dish made with breaded and fried pork or veal.
- Sauerbraten: A traditional German pot roast made with beef, vinegar, and spices.
- Apfelwein: A popular local drink made with apple cider and often served in traditional taverns.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to ensure that you have the correct visa to live and work in Frankfurt. Germany offers a range of visa options, including:
- Tourist visa: This visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be obtained at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Freelance visa: This visa is designed for freelancers and remote workers, and requires proof of income, health insurance, and a valid passport.
- Job seeker visa: This visa is designed for individuals who are looking for work in Germany, and requires proof of qualifications, language skills, and a valid passport.
It’s always a good idea to check with the German embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for living and working in Frankfurt as a digital nomad:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at most phone stores or supermarkets, with prices starting from around €10-€20 (approximately $11-$22 USD) per month.
- Transport: Frankfurt has an excellent public transportation system, with a range of buses, trams, and trains. You can purchase a monthly pass for around €75-€100 (approximately $84-$112 USD).
- Safety: Frankfurt is generally a safe city, but as with any city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Weather: Frankfurt has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing for the winter months and lightweight clothing for the summer.
