Is Dortmund more expensive than Essen?

Dortmund is 0.5% more expensive than Essen overall. Rent is 4.9% higher, groceries 0.9% more expensive, and restaurants 10.0% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Essen or Dortmund?

Essen has a purchasing power index of 130.0 while Dortmund has 142.3 (NYC = 100). Dortmund offers better purchasing power.

Essen vs Dortmund: Dortmund is 0.5% more expensive, rent 5% higher (2026)

Category	🇩🇪 Essen	🇩🇪 Dortmund	Difference
Cost of Living	37.2	37.4	+0.5%
Rent	16.3	17.1	+4.9%
Groceries	65.2	65.8	+0.9%
Restaurants	77.9	70.1	-10.0%
Purchasing Power	130.0	142.3	+9.5%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇩🇪 Cost of Living in Essen

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🇩🇪 Cost of Living in Dortmund

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