Finding the right accommodation in Germany can feel like chasing a moving target. Whether you’ve just received your visa, accepted a new job in Berlin, or are preparing for university life in Munich, securing a place to live is one of the first, and often toughest, challenges you’ll face.
In 2026, the German property market remains competitive. Demand still outpaces supply in many major cities, and new platforms and digital tools continue reshaping how both locals and internationals find housing. Germany has a layered rental system with long-term contracts, shared apartments (Wohngemeinschaften), furnished short-term options, and student dormitories all vying for attention.
This guide breaks down the best online platforms you can confidently use this year—whether you need a studio apartment, shared room, mid-term furnished flat, or student housing. We’ll walk through pros and cons, comparisons you can scan quickly, and strategic tips that help you find accommodation faster and smarter.
Why You Should Care About Using the Right Websites
Before we list the best sites, it helps to understand why choosing the right platform matters.
Finding accommodation in Germany isn’t like choosing a hotel room for a weekend. Most rentals require that you:
- Provide the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung — a landlord confirmation document that you actually live at the address. This is mandatory to complete your city registration (“Anmeldung”), which in turn affects your bank account, tax ID, and residency status.
- Navigate national and regional property markets with varying competition levels — Berlin and Munich are notoriously competitive, while smaller cities often have lower rents and more supply.
- Sort through listings that may be in German only, require quick action, or include essential filters like “Anmeldung possible.”
The right websites streamline this process, offer reliable filters, and increase your chances of finding accommodation that fits your needs and timeline.
How We Selected These Websites
To make this guide practical for 2026, we prioritized platforms that:
- Are actively used in Germany and updated regularly.
- Support international users (English interface or simple navigation).
- Cover a broad range of accommodation types (long-term, short-term, shared, furnished).
- Have clear rental terms and avoid dubious or scam listings.
All summaries below reflect current usage trends and best practices.
Snapshot: Best Websites for Accommodation in Germany (Quick Guide)
| Website | Best For | Cost | English Friendly | Supported Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ImmobilienScout24 | Long-term apartments | Free + Paid upgrades | Partial | Private & agency listings |
| WG-Gesucht | Shared flats, WGs | Free | Yes | Rooms + flats |
| HousingAnywhere | Mid- to long-term rentals | Service fee | Yes | Global + Germany listings |
| Wunderflats | Furnished rentals | Varies | Yes | Furnished apartments |
| Spotahome | Mid-term rentals | Varies | Yes | Verified mid-term |
| Uniplaces | Student accommodation | Free search | Yes | Student rooms, flats |
| eBay-Kleinanzeigen | Miscellaneous rentals | Free | Partial | Local listings |
This table shows the high-level strengths of each platform and helps you pick which ones to focus on based on your needs.
Long-Term Rentals: Best Sites for Standard Apartments
When you need a regular apartment for one year or more, these websites are the places to start.
1. ImmobilienScout24 — Germany’s Market Leader
Why it’s essential:
ImmobilienScout24 is arguably the most comprehensive property portal in Germany for long-term rentals. Listings range from studio flats to multi-room apartments.
Why it’s great:
- Massive database with thousands of listings across all major and minor cities.
- Filters let you narrow by rent, size, furnishing, and city district.
- Premium accounts help you get alerts and early access to new listings.
Drawbacks:
- The interface is mostly German, which can be tough if you aren’t familiar with the language.
- Competition is intense; good properties are claimed fast.
Best for: Professionals, families, long-term tenants.
2. eBay-Kleinanzeigen — Local Classifieds With Hidden Gems
eBay-Kleinanzeigen works like Craigslist. Many landlords and tenants post available rentals directly here.
Why use it:
- Often less competition compared to major portals.
- Great for flexible arrangements and local connections.
Caveats:
- Listings vary in quality and professionalism.
- Always verify landlords and avoid offers that seem too good to be true.
Best for: Flexible renters, budget hunts.
Shared Flats & Co-Living: Ideal for Students and Young Professionals
Shared apartments (WGs) are a staple living option in Germany, especially for students or newcomers.
3. WG-Gesucht — The Shared Flat Powerhouse
WG-Gesucht is one of the most popular platforms for finding Wohngemeinschaften (shared apartments) and single rooms.
Why it’s effective:
- You can list requests or send direct messages to landlords/tenants.
- Many listings allow short-term stays and move-in flexibility.
- Free for most search functions.
Strong suits:
- Often offers rooms faster than regular apartment portals.
- Special filters for furnished rooms and move-in dates.
Best for: Students, newcomers, budget conscious renters.
Mid-Term & Fully Furnished Rentals: Best Platforms for Flexible Stays
If you’re not ready to commit to a long lease or need something furnished, these sites help.
4. HousingAnywhere — International Rentals With Local Support
HousingAnywhere specializes in mid- to long-term stays and works well for international renters before arrival.
Why it’s useful:
- English-friendly interface with global reach.
- Designed to help tenants moving from abroad by securing a place before arrival.
- Often partners with universities and relocation services.
Potential downsides:
- Service fees can apply.
- Inventory may be concentrated in bigger cities.
Best for: Students and expats arriving from overseas.
5. Wunderflats — Furnished Apartments You Can Book Online
Wunderflats specializes in fully furnished living spaces in Germany, with verified listings that often support registration (Anmeldung).
Benefits:
- Furnished and ready to live in without upfront furnishing costs.
- Professional photos and reliable landlord processes.
- Online contract signing makes it easier from abroad.
Limitations:
- Prices are typically higher than unfurnished rentals.
- Best options are in larger cities.
Best for: Remote workers, short-term relocations, furnished living.
6. Spotahome — Mid-Term Rentals With Verification
Spotahome targets mid-term stays (from one month up) and prioritizes listing verification so you can trust what you see online.
What sets it apart:
- Verified photos and walkthroughs.
- Some listings include 24-hour checks after move-in.
- Deposit protections add security for renters.
Things to note:
- Service costs and deposit terms vary.
- Not all German cities have large inventories.
Best for: Flexible mid-term tenants and travelers transitioning into longer leases.
Student-Focused Platforms
Students often have distinct needs: lower budgets, shared housing, or university dorms. Germany’s student housing landscape is varied and competitive.
7. Uniplaces — Student-Friendly Housing Marketplace
Uniplaces is an international student accommodation platform that provides rooms, studios, and shared flats tailored to students.
Advantages:
- English interface makes it easier for international students.
- Often includes university-partnered listings.
- Good for booking ahead of arrival.
Drawbacks:
- Availability can vary by city and semester cycle.
Best for: Students needing reliable, student-centric options.
Bonus Options and How They Fit
Here are a few more worthy mentions and why they matter:
- Immowelt / Immonet: Established German platforms similar to ImmobilienScout24 with rich listings, but mostly in German.
- Spacest: Mid-term listing site with utilities included and simple online process.
- Studentenwerk: Local student union housing boards — very low cost but competitive.
Tips to Search Efficiently and Avoid Scams
Indeed, armoring yourself with strategy increases your success rate:
Start Early
Rental markets move fast in Germany, especially in cities like Munich and Berlin.
Prepare Your Documents
You should have these ready:
- Proof of income or student enrollment.
- References or Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung (rental clearance).
- Passport or residency status.
Without documentation, landlords can ignore your application.
Know Rental Terms
German listings often include:
- Kaltmiete: Base rent without utilities.
- Warmmiete: Rent including heating and utilities.
Understanding these helps budgeting.
Beware of Red Flags
Avoid listings that:
- Ask for cash transfers before showing the property.
- Don’t offer a proper contract.
- Lack a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung for Anmeldung.
Navigating Different Accommodation Types
Germany’s housing options vary greatly in cost, contract type, and lifestyle impact. Here’s a quick overview:
| Housing Type | Typical Monthly Cost | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Student Dorms | €250–€450 | Students & budget stays |
| Shared Flat (WG) | €300–€700 | Students & young professionals |
| Private Apartment | €500–€1,500+ | Families, professionals |
| Furnished Mid-Term | €800–€2,000 | Expats, relocators |
These ranges are averages and vary widely by city.
Conclusion: Your Next Steps
Securing accommodation in Germany in 2026 remains a strategic, effort-driven task — but the right online platforms can make this manageable and even empowering. The market is competitive, and you need to act quickly, stay organized, and use the best portals available.
To recap:
- Use ImmobilienScout24 and eBay-Kleinanzeigen for broad apartment searches.
- Try WG-Gesucht first for shared flats.
- Select HousingAnywhere, Wunderflats, or Spotahome for flexible, furnished, or mid-term options.
- Students should strongly consider Uniplaces and university housing boards.
No matter your lifestyle, there’s a platform made for your needs. Planning ahead, understanding German rental norms, and leveraging these websites wisely will make your housing search more successful — and less stressful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best website for students finding accommodation in Germany?
For students, Uniplaces and WG-Gesucht are very useful. These sites focus on student needs and shared living options with English-friendly navigation.
2. Can I find furnished apartments online before arriving in Germany?
Yes. Wunderflats and HousingAnywhere specialize in furnished rentals with online contracts and support pre-arrival booking.
3. What is a WG in Germany?
A WG (Wohngemeinschaft) is a shared apartment where individuals rent private rooms and share common spaces — a popular, affordable choice.
4. How soon should I start searching for accommodation?
Start at least 2–3 months before your move date, especially for competitive cities. Good listings go quickly.
5. Do all websites allow registration (Anmeldung) from abroad?
Not all. Make sure you check listing details or communicate with landlords to confirm that a accommodation supports registration for residency and official mail handling.
