Berlin vs. Toronto — two exciting, international cities that attract talent from all over. But what happens when you actually live there on a €3,200/month net salary? Let’s break it down 👇
🏠 Rent: In Berlin, a one-bedroom in the city center costs around €1,207. Toronto? €1,603. The price gap is big, but the struggle is similar: long waiting lists, high demand, and landlords who can afford to be picky. Getting an apartment takes patience — and a bit of luck — in both cities.
🍝 Food: 🍽️ Food: Groceries alone land at around €430/month in Berlin and €500 in Toronto. Things like produce, dairy, and pantry items are noticeably pricier in Canada. The basics cost more, even before you think about eating out.
🚆 Transport: Berlin’s monthly public transport pass is just €58, while Toronto’s is €101. Both cities have decent networks, but Berlin wins on price — and many people in Toronto still rely heavily on cars outside downtown.
💡 Utilities: Surprisingly high in Berlin at €317, compared to €95 in Toronto. Heating costs, older buildings, and less energy-efficient infrastructure often drive this up in Germany.
🎭 Activities: Want to go out, see a concert, grab drinks? Expect to spend €370/month in Berlin and €400 in Toronto. Both cities offer a vibrant cultural scene, but Toronto’s prices (especially drinks and event tickets) tend to be a little higher.
🏋️♀️ Gym: €33 in Berlin, €48 in Toronto. Could be your excuse to go biking instead 😅
🧼 Other bits and bobs: Toiletries, clothes, and random extras: €350 vs. €360.
💶 What’s left at the end of the month?
Berlin: €435 🏆
Toronto: €93
That extra €340 gives you more freedom to save, travel, or just not stress about every little expense.
Gross salary to hit this net:
🇩🇪 Berlin: €61,800
🇨🇦 Toronto: CAD 79,707
Spree River or Lake Ontario? Drop your pick in the comments 👇
Source: Numbeo
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3 Comments
Just carry your groceries on your back back home and up the stairs, (and the trash down) go by bike, and do urban gardening as 'activities'! You will end every month with 600€ left in your pocket.
Problem is how many people get to the 3200 net in the first place. You'd want to be in the region of over 5k gross – not easy to get to…
For 1200€ you can rent 60-90m2 pretty big and relative luxury apartment in berlin while in Toronto you can get 1 room and share it with 2-3 others apartment of 30m2