Living in Nuremberg: the ultimate expat guide

The Nuremberg Metropolitan Region ranks among Germany's strongest economic areas, with over 25,000 companies creating a diverse employment landscape. Bavaria consistently records Germany's lowest unemployment rate, and Nuremberg benefits from this economic strength with robust opportunities across multiple sectors.

Key Industries and Employers

The region excels in IT and telecommunications, medical technology (earning the nickname "Medical Valley"), energy technology, and automation. Major employers include Siemens, MAN, Schaeffler, Adidas, and Puma. The market research sector is particularly strong—Nuremberg leads Germany in this field. Approximately 16,500 employees work in the energy industry across 1,250 companies.

Work Permits and Visas

Non-EU professionals typically require an EU Blue Card, which demands a recognized university degree and a job offer with a minimum annual salary of €48,300 (or €43,759.80 for shortage occupations like IT and engineering). The Blue Card provides a pathway to permanent residency after 21-27 months.

The following table summarizes key employment indicators:

Sources: Bundesagentur für Arbeit, EURES

The Nuremberg Metropolitan Region hosts 20 university-level institutions, 50 research facilities, and over 100,000 students. This academic ecosystem creates excellent opportunities for degree programs, research, and professional development.

Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)

FAU ranks among Germany's largest universities with approximately 38,000 students and 267 degree programs. Recognized as Europe's second most innovative university, FAU offers strengths in engineering, natural sciences, medicine, and materials research. Crucially, no tuition fees apply for international students—only a semester contribution of €72 covers administrative costs. Programs are available in both German and English.

Other Institutions

The Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm offers applied sciences programs with strong industry connections. The Academy of Fine Arts and University of Music serve creative disciplines. For working professionals, institutions like OHM Professional School and IU International University provide flexible study options.

Admission typically requires certified academic transcripts, language proficiency (German B2/C1 or English equivalent), and program-specific requirements. Applications run through uni-assist or directly to institutions.

Sources: FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, TH Nürnberg

Families relocating to Nuremberg can choose between the German public school system and several international education options. Understanding the local landscape helps ensure a smooth transition for children of all ages.

International Schools

The Franconian International School (FIS) in nearby Erlangen serves the Nuremberg metropolitan area with students from 46 nationalities. FIS offers education from age 3 through Grade 12, following an American curriculum accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges. Annual tuition ranges from approximately €12,000 to €18,000 depending on grade level.

The International Montessori School of Nuremberg provides bilingual German-English education using the Montessori method for ages 3-18, with annual fees around €12,000. St. Lorenz International School offers a Christian-based bilingual program for younger children.

German Public Schools

Public education is free and compulsory for children aged 6-18. The German system includes Grundschule (primary, grades 1-4), followed by Gymnasium, Realschule, or Hauptschule based on academic performance. Integration classes help non-German speakers transition into the system.

Sources: Franconian International School, City of Nuremberg

Nuremberg's rental market offers better value than Munich or Frankfurt, though demand remains competitive in popular districts. Understanding neighborhood characteristics and rental procedures helps newcomers secure suitable accommodation.

Popular Neighborhoods

Altstadt (Old Town) features medieval charm with cobblestone streets, proximity to landmarks, and higher rents. Gostenhof—often called "Nuremberg's Brooklyn"—attracts young professionals with its creative scene, street art, and more affordable rents. St. Johannis offers a peaceful atmosphere near the Pegnitz River, excellent for families. Südstadt provides multicultural character with independent shops and affordable options. Maxfeld and Erlenstegen represent upscale residential areas with green spaces.

Rental Prices

Average rent in Nuremberg is approximately €11.65 per square meter. The following table shows typical monthly costs:

Rental applications require a SCHUFA credit report, proof of income, ID, and a previous landlord reference.

Sources: ImmoScout24, Numbeo

Nuremberg's cultural richness spans medieval history, world-class museums, and year-round festivals. The city balances historical gravitas with contemporary creativity, offering residents diverse ways to spend their leisure time.

Museums and Cultural Sites

The Germanisches Nationalmuseum houses the largest cultural-historical collection in the German-speaking world, with over 25,000 objects from prehistoric times to the present. The Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) towers over the Old Town, offering panoramic views and insight into medieval imperial life. Albrecht Dürer's House preserves the studio where the Renaissance master lived from 1509-1528—the only surviving artist's house from this period in Northern Europe. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and Memorium Nuremberg Trials address the city's complex 20th-century history with educational depth.

Festivals and Recreation

The Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market) attracts over 2 million visitors annually, running from late November through December 24th. Summer brings the Bardentreffen music festival and Nuremberg Volksfest. The Tiergarten Nürnberg zoo covers 70 hectares. The surrounding Reichswald forest—Europe's largest municipal forest—provides hiking and cycling trails. Local cuisine features the famous Nürnberger Bratwurst and Lebkuchen gingerbread.

Sources: Nuremberg Tourism, Christkindlesmarkt

Settling into Nuremberg means embracing efficient German systems alongside Franconian hospitality. From transportation to shopping routines, daily life runs smoothly once you understand the local rhythms.

Public Transportation

The VGN (Verkehrsverbund Großraum Nürnberg) operates an integrated network of U-Bahn (3 subway lines), trams, buses, and regional trains. Notably, the U2 and U3 lines operate completely driverless—making Nuremberg's metro one of the most modern in Germany. The U2 connects directly to Nuremberg Airport. The Deutschland-Ticket costs €58/month (2025) and provides unlimited travel on all local and regional public transport nationwide.

Lifestyle and Culture

Nuremberg embraces its title as Germany's "organic capital," with farmers' markets and sustainable living initiatives throughout the city. Shops typically close by 8 PM on weekdays and remain closed on Sundays. Major supermarket chains include REWE, Edeka, Aldi, and Lidl. The city offers extensive cycling infrastructure, making bikes a popular commuting option. English is widely spoken in professional settings, though learning German significantly improves daily interactions.

Sources: VGN, VAG Nürnberg

Nuremberg offers moderate living costs compared to other major German cities—significantly lower than Munich while maintaining excellent services and infrastructure. Planning your budget helps ensure financial stability during your transition.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

The following table estimates typical monthly expenses for a single person:

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, Expatistan