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Cost of living in Germany for Indians: An Indian couple residing in Germany has stirred up a social media controversy after posting their monthly expenditures, which amount to almost 3,000 euros (approximately Rs 3.1 lakh). The revelation made by way of a viral Instagram video has left viewers polarized on whether the expenditure indicates easy living or is just frivolous.

The couple, Payal and Gaurav, who have been vlogging their life in a foreign land, revealed that the largest single share of their budget is being spent on housing expenses. Their rent alone takes up 1,500 euros (Rs 1.55 lakh), which many viewers also found expensive relative to small towns in Germany but acceptable in big cities. The couple further explained that the largest share of their budget is spent on housing, which by itself accounts for half of their monthly expenses. Their lifestyle spending, including groceries, eating out, and gym, also came in for scrutiny for being much higher than what most Indians spend in India.

Expenses To Live In Germany

According to their video, here is how the couple’s monthly budget looks:
• Rent: 1,500 euros Rs 1.55 lakh approx.)
• Electricity/Utilities: 100 euros (Rs 10,360 approx.)
• Car Insurance: 120 euros (Rs 12,500 approx.)
• Petrol/Fuel: 200 euros (Rs 20,700 approx.)
• Groceries: 600 euros (Rs 62,000 approx.)
• Dining Out: 400 euros (Rs 41,400 approx.)
• Gym Memberships: 80 euros (Rs 8,300 approx.)

Social Media Reactions

The video has sparked intense discussion across platforms. Some viewers described the expenses as “affordable by European standards”, given Germany’s high cost of living and taxation. Others argued that such numbers reflect the lifestyle of only a fraction of expats and not the average foreign worker. One user pointed out, “This kind of expense is not for everyone. Most people manage with around 2,000 to 2,500 euros, depending on their living standards.”

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Another questioned whether the couple was able to save anything after meeting such expenses, adding, “Do you consider yourself middle class or upper class with this lifestyle?”

Life Abroad vs Life In India

Many Indian viewers compared the numbers with life back home. Some argued that similar expenses in India would indicate an upper-class lifestyle, while in Europe, it simply reflects “comfortable survival.” A section of users also requested the couple to disclose their earnings in both euros and rupees to give a clearer picture of affordability.

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The debate highlights a growing curiosity among Indians about the true cost of living abroad, particularly in Western Europe. While glamorous Instagram posts often showcase travel and leisure, the couple’s video was an attempt to show the financial realities behind such a life. As one user summed it up, “Life is expensive anywhere in the world, maybe except India. What matters is whether your income matches your lifestyle.”