SRH University
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Living and housing in Cologne

Make Cologne your home

Living and housing in Cologne

Cologne is more than just a city - it's a way of life. An open and welcoming atmosphere awaits you between the cathedral, the Rhine and the carnival. The lively cultural scene, diverse leisure activities and a strong student culture make Cologne the perfect place for your studies.

Whether it's cosy cafés, green meadows on the Rhine or spontaneous concerts - you'll quickly make friends here. And thanks to good public transport and cycle paths, you can get everywhere quickly.

Two women are packing moving boxes in a bright room. One woman is holding a box while the other is taking items out of a box. Plants and furniture are visible in the background.

Tips for finding a flat

Here are a few tips:

  • Please allow sufficient time (approx. 1-2 months) to find accommodation.
  • For the initial period, we recommend looking for a hotel/hostel and/or short-term accommodation for a few months, for example.
  • Please also use the FB group to look for accommodation and flatmates.

Important information:

  • As our university is not a member of the "Studentenwerk", you cannot apply for a place in their halls of residence.
  • Our university supports you in your search for accommodation, but does not provide any specific offers.

Registering your place of residence

Within 14 days of moving in, you must register with the relevant registration office in Cologne. It is advisable to book an appointment online while you are still looking for accommodation, as appointments are often fully booked weeks in advance.

Find your new place to stay!

Living in Cologne: Your options

Two women are organizing a desk. One is putting folders on the shelf while the other is taking plans out of a box.

Private student apartments

Furnished flats with modern communal areas:

Shared rooms & flats for rent

Popular platforms for finding accommodation:

Living for help

You live with senior citizens or families at a favourable price and provide support in everyday life.

More information: Living for help

Drei junge Erwachsene sitzen auf einer Wiese im Park, unter Bäumen. Sie unterhalten sich und haben einige persönliche Gegenstände bei sich. Die Umgebung zeigt frisches Gras und blühende Pflanzen.

Popular neighbourhoods ("Veedel")

  • Ehrenfeld - multicultural scene, clubs, good public transport connections
  • Belgian Quarter - trendy cafés, small boutiques, Brüsseler Platz
  • Kalk - comparatively cheap, good rail connections
  • Nippes - multicultural with a daily market and many old restaurants
  • Lindenthal - is known for its green parks and recreational areas such as the city forest and Decksteiner Weiher, which are ideal for walking, jogging and relaxing

Tips for your start in Cologne

  • Look for flats early on - interim renting is also an option.
  • Take care of official matters such as re-registration, bank account, BAföG and insurance in good time.
  • Use platforms such as meinkoelnbonn.de for orientation.

📸 Instagram profiles for events and information about Cologne