Stuttgart

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Neighborhoods

Introduction to the different neighborhoods in Stuttgart and their housing characteristics.

Sections

1. Stuttgart-Mitte (City Center)

  • Character and Atmosphere: Stuttgart-Mitte is the heart of the city, bustling with activity and home to key landmarks like Schlossplatz, Königstraße (the main shopping street), and the State Opera House. It’s a lively area with a mix of historic and modern architecture.
  • Housing and Accommodation: Housing here is primarily apartments, ranging from modern high-rises to older, renovated buildings. Space is limited, and apartments tend to be smaller.
  • Average Rental Costs: Expect to pay around €15–€20 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs €1,000–€1,500 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Excellent access to shopping, dining, cultural venues, and parks like the Schlossgarten.
  • Public Transport: Well-connected by U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (regional trains), and buses. Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is located here.
  • Tips for Newcomers: Ideal for professionals who want to live close to work and enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle. However, it’s one of the most expensive areas in Stuttgart.

2. Stuttgart-West

  • Character and Atmosphere: Known for its bohemian vibe, Stuttgart-West is a trendy and diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, students, and young professionals. It features beautiful 19th-century buildings and a lively café and bar scene.
  • Housing and Accommodation: Apartments dominate the housing market, with many Altbau (pre-war) buildings offering high ceilings and charm. Renovated units are common.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €14–€18 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €900–€1,300 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Plenty of independent shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Proximity to parks like Feuersee and Hasenbergsteige.
  • Public Transport: Well-served by U-Bahn and buses, with easy access to the city center.
  • Tips for Newcomers: A great choice for those seeking a mix of urban living and a creative, laid-back atmosphere.

3. Stuttgart-Süd

  • Character and Atmosphere: Stuttgart-Süd is a quieter, more residential area with a mix of families and professionals. It’s known for its green spaces and proximity to the forested hills of the city.
  • Housing and Accommodation: A mix of apartments and single-family homes. Many properties are in older, well-maintained buildings.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €13–€17 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €850–€1,200 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Close to nature, with parks like Karlshöhe and the Südheimer Platz area. Good schools and family-friendly facilities.
  • Public Transport: Well-connected by U-Bahn and buses, though some areas are hilly and may require walking.
  • Tips for Newcomers: Ideal for families or those who prefer a quieter, greener environment while still being close to the city center.

4. Stuttgart-Ost

  • Character and Atmosphere: Stuttgart-Ost is a diverse and up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of working-class roots and modern developments. It’s less touristy but offers a strong sense of community.
  • Housing and Accommodation: Affordable compared to other central districts. A mix of older apartments and newer developments.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €12–€16 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €800–€1,100 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Supermarkets, local shops, and parks like Villa Berg. The area is also home to the Cannstatter Wasen festival grounds.
  • Public Transport: Good U-Bahn and bus connections, with easy access to the city center.
  • Tips for Newcomers: A good option for those on a budget who still want to live close to the city center.

5. Bad Cannstatt

  • Character and Atmosphere: One of Stuttgart’s oldest districts, Bad Cannstatt is famous for its mineral baths, historic charm, and the Cannstatter Volksfest (second-largest beer festival in the world). It has a mix of traditional and modern vibes.
  • Housing and Accommodation: A mix of apartments and single-family homes. More affordable than central Stuttgart.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €11–€15 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €750–€1,100 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Mineral spas, Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, and the Mercedes-Benz Arena. Plenty of shops and restaurants.
  • Public Transport: Excellent S-Bahn and U-Bahn connections, making it easy to reach the city center.
  • Tips for Newcomers: A great choice for families and those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and affordability.

6. Degerloch

  • Character and Atmosphere: Located on a hill overlooking Stuttgart, Degerloch is a quiet, affluent neighborhood with a suburban feel. It’s popular with families and expats.
  • Housing and Accommodation: Primarily single-family homes and upscale apartments. Spacious and modern housing options are common.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €14–€18 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €900–€1,300 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Excellent schools, sports facilities, and green spaces like the Waldau area.
  • Public Transport: Connected by U-Bahn and the historic Stuttgart funicular railway. The city center is about 15 minutes away.
  • Tips for Newcomers: Ideal for families or those seeking a quieter, more upscale lifestyle.

7. Vaihingen

  • Character and Atmosphere: A major business hub and home to the University of Stuttgart, Vaihingen is a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s popular with students, professionals, and families.
  • Housing and Accommodation: A mix of apartments, student housing, and single-family homes. Modern developments are common.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €12–€16 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €800–€1,200 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Shopping centers, restaurants, and proximity to the university campus. Green spaces like the Vaihinger Stadtpark.
  • Public Transport: Excellent S-Bahn and U-Bahn connections, with direct access to the city center and Stuttgart Airport.
  • Tips for Newcomers: A practical choice for students and professionals working in the area.

8. Feuerbach

  • Character and Atmosphere: A former industrial area turned residential, Feuerbach is a diverse and affordable neighborhood with a mix of cultures.
  • Housing and Accommodation: Affordable apartments, many in post-war buildings. Some newer developments are also available.
  • Average Rental Costs: Around €11–€14 per square meter. A one-bedroom apartment costs €750–€1,000 per month.
  • Local Amenities: Supermarkets, local shops, and parks like Höhenpark Killesberg.
  • Public Transport: Well-connected by S-Bahn and U-Bahn, with easy access to the city center.
  • Tips for Newcomers: A good option for those on a budget who want a multicultural environment.

Finding and Securing Accommodation in Stuttgart

  1. Online Platforms: Use websites like Immobilienscout24, WG-Gesucht (for shared apartments), and Immonet.
  2. Rental Process:
    • Documents Needed: Proof of income, SCHUFA credit report, ID/passport, and sometimes a reference from a previous landlord.
    • Deposit: Typically 2–3 months’ rent.
    • Lease Terms: Most leases are long-term (12 months or more), but short-term options are available for students and expats.
  3. Tips:
    • Start your search early, as demand is high.
    • Be prepared to attend viewings and act quickly if you find a suitable place.
    • Consider working with a real estate agent (Makler), though they may charge a fee.

Final Tips for Newcomers

  • Language: While many landlords speak English, having basic German skills or a German-speaking friend can be helpful.
  • Utilities: Rent often excludes utilities (Nebenkosten), so budget an additional €150–€300 per month.
  • Public Transport: Stuttgart’s VVS network is extensive, so living near a U-Bahn or S-Bahn station is highly convenient.

By understanding the character and housing options of Stuttgart’s neighborhoods, you can find the area that best suits your lifestyle and budget.