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At 33, I sometimes feel like I’ve already lived a thousand lives. I’m originally from Los Angeles, and over the past decade, I’ve done it all teaching English in China to serve as an emergency worker in Turkey during the war in Syria.
After completing my master’s degree in London, I started working as a product manager for a global travel technology company, and had the option of moving to the US or Germany, where my husband is.
With my decision in mind, I did some math and realized that even with a lower salary in Germany than I would potentially earn in the US, I could achieve my financial goals, e.g. paying off my student debtfaster
Since February 2020, I’ve called Berlin, Germany home, and I’ve never been happier. Here’s why I love living here:
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I love our quiet and friendly neighborhood
My husband and I live in an area west of Berlin called Charlottenburg, a relatively quiet neighborhood full of cozy cafes and middle-class families. I’m on a first-name basis with many of the store owners, and I love the community here.
We live in a 1,100 square meter, 2 bedroom apartment with a balcony. We pay $1,843 a month for rent, about $350 for utilities, and $240 for parking. We paid about the same in London, but our apartment in Berlin is twice the size, and the building is much newer.
A beautiful day in the city with the sun.
Photo: Vanessa Wachtmeister
For groceries, I’m a big fan of METRO, which is basically Germany’s Costco. Every two weeks, we spend about $300 on our bulk products. Where necessary we supplement with other items purchased from local budget retailers such as Aldi and Lidl. Lidl sells my favorite Brötchen or bread rolls for 45 cents.
Moving here helped me pay off my debt
In Germany, the government also offers guaranteed health care, pensions, parental leave, tuition-free college, and unemployment insurance. I have some friends who were laid off, but thanks to this insurance, they were able to receive 80% of their salary for a year.
When I was deciding between the US and Germany, I dialed some numbers and I realized that with the social safety net—and not having to set aside thousands of dollars for medical emergencies, for example—I could save between $1,000 and $3,000 a month. This has made a big difference.
In front of the Brandenburg Gate.
Photo: Vanessa Wachtmeister
When I arrived, I was facing $130,000 in student debt. I was able to pay it all off in November 2023 while continuing to save and invest for my future. I’ve had a tremendous weight on my shoulders, and I’m not worried about not being able to pay my bills here.
My money goes further, and I’m happy to do my part to help people get help when they need it.
The sense of community is palpable
What surprised and pleased me most when I arrived in Berlin was the deep sense of equality that everyone seemed to share, regardless of background.
A lot cultural events entry is free, because access and participation are high core values here. One of my favorite things to do in the summer is explore other neighborhoods’ cafes and go to food festivals.
Enjoying a drink and the atmosphere in an outdoor cafe.
Photo: Vanessa Wachtmeister
Festivals are fun, cheap (I usually spend $12 on drinks and snacks) and often celebrate different cultures and countries. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people in a city of 6 million.
I have also found that the expat community in Berlin, of which I am very proud to be a member, is particularly welcoming. We all understand how isolating it can be to find yourself in a new place.
I have access to the rest of the European Union
In February, I have been a resident of Germany for five years. This means I will be eligible to apply for a passport and dual citizenship, just permanent residency.
I am here at Potsdamer Platz, next to one of the pieces of the Berlin Wall on display there.
Photo: Vanessa Wachtmeister
Having a German passport means that I will be able to move anywhere I want in the European Economic Area. My long term dream is to retire early, get some chickens and live quietly in the Italian countryside. Obtaining an EEA passport is a key part of this plan.
Ultimately, although I have called many places home, my decision to come to Berlin has opened up more avenues for me than I ever imagined.
Vanessa Wachtmeister She is a proud Chicana from Los Angeles, California. He is a thought leader and digital content creator who has amassed over 700,000 followers across various social media platforms with his platform. Wandering Forward. Currently based in Germany, Vanessa’s goal is to continue building digital products that improve the lives of North Americans abroad, and help others achieve financial and location independence.
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