What is the best neighborhood in Frankfurt?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Germany Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Frankfurt's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

INVESTROPA

A team specialized in real estate investing in European countries (Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Germany. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At InvestRopa, we explore the German real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What's your monthly budget for rent or to buy per square meter in Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt's rental market averages €18.33 per square meter per month citywide, but premium neighborhoods command significantly higher rates.

In central districts like Innenstadt, expect to pay €18.30-€23.50 per square meter monthly for rental properties. Westend, one of Frankfurt's most prestigious areas, can reach €20-€25 per square meter for luxury apartments. Sachsenhausen typically ranges from €16-€22 per square meter, while Nordend averages €15-€20 per square meter.

For purchasing property, Frankfurt's average price sits at €6,116 per square meter for existing apartments and €8,236 per square meter for new builds. However, premium neighborhoods like Westend can command €8,500-€14,500 per square meter for luxury condos. Sachsenhausen ranges from €7,000-€10,000 per square meter, while emerging areas like Ostend offer more affordable options at €5,200-€7,000 per square meter.

Student-friendly Bockenheim presents better value at €5,500-€7,500 per square meter for purchases and €12-€18 per square meter for rentals. Family-oriented Bornheim averages €5,800-€8,200 per square meter for buying and €14-€19 per square meter for renting.

It's something we develop in our Germany property pack.

How long does it take to commute from Frankfurt neighborhoods to the city center?

Frankfurt's excellent public transportation system ensures most neighborhoods are within 20-30 minutes of the financial district.

Innenstadt offers the shortest commute, with walking distances to major banks and offices typically under 10 minutes. Sachsenhausen provides quick access via U-Bahn lines U1, U2, and U3, reaching the city center in 10-15 minutes. Westend connects efficiently through multiple U-Bahn stations, with commutes averaging 15-20 minutes to Hauptwache or Konstablerwache.

Nordend residents can reach the center in 15-25 minutes using U-Bahn lines U4 and U6, while Bockenheim benefits from multiple S-Bahn and U-Bahn connections, taking 20-25 minutes to central Frankfurt. Bornheim typically requires 20-30 minutes via U-Bahn U4 or S-Bahn connections.

Emerging neighborhoods like Ostend are increasingly well-connected, with commute times of 15-25 minutes via S-Bahn lines. Even suburban areas maintain reasonable access, with nearby towns like Kronberg or Bad Homburg taking 20-40 minutes by regional trains.

The integrated RMV network includes U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses running every 5-10 minutes in central areas and every 15-30 minutes from suburbs.

What's the crime rate in Frankfurt neighborhoods compared to the city average?

Frankfurt maintains a moderate crime index of 45.8, higher than most German cities but comparable to Berlin and Hamburg.

Most residential neighborhoods like Westend, Sachsenhausen, Nordend, and Bockenheim are considered very safe and popular with families and professionals. These areas experience minimal street crime and maintain strong community security. Bornheim and suburban districts also enjoy low crime rates typical of family-oriented neighborhoods.

The main exception is Bahnhofsviertel (near Hauptbahnhof), which experiences higher crime rates related to drug use and petty theft. This area, while central, requires more caution, especially during nighttime hours. However, ongoing urban renewal efforts are gradually improving the situation.

Financial district areas maintain excellent security due to heavy police presence and private security measures. Ostend, as an emerging neighborhood, shows improving safety statistics as gentrification progresses and more residents move in.

Overall, Frankfurt's crime rates remain well within acceptable ranges for a major financial center, with violent crime being particularly rare in residential neighborhoods.

How many schools and daycare options are within 2 km radius of Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt offers over 140 municipal daycare centers (Kitas) plus numerous private options throughout the city.

Most neighborhoods provide 5-15 kindergartens and primary schools within a 2-kilometer radius. Westend and Sachsenhausen, being family-friendly areas, offer excellent school density including several international options. Nordend provides good coverage of both public and private educational facilities.

International school options include Frankfurt International School (Fintosch), International Bilingual Montessori School (IBMS), Metropolitan School Frankfurt, and the highly competitive European School Frankfurt. Monthly fees for international kindergartens typically range from €1,200-€1,500.

Bockenheim benefits from proximity to Goethe University, creating a strong educational environment with multiple schools and tutoring options. Bornheim offers excellent family-oriented educational infrastructure with numerous primary schools and Kitas within walking distance.

Public schools maintain generally high standards throughout Frankfurt, though specific ratings vary by institution. Parents typically consult local forums and the city's education office (Stadtschulamt) for detailed school performance data.

What's the average price per square meter for property in different Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Neighborhood	Existing Properties (€/m²)	New Builds (€/m²)	Market Segment
Westend	€8,500-€12,000	€10,000-€14,500	Luxury
Sachsenhausen	€7,000-€9,500	€8,500-€11,000	Premium
Innenstadt	€7,500-€10,000	€9,000-€12,000	Business
Nordend	€6,500-€8,500	€7,500-€9,500	Professional
Bornheim	€5,800-€7,500	€6,800-€8,500	Family
Bockenheim	€5,500-€7,000	€6,500-€8,000	Student/Family
Ostend	€5,200-€6,500	€6,000-€7,500	Emerging

How many grocery stores, pharmacies, gyms, and restaurants are within walking distance of Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Central Frankfurt neighborhoods typically offer 5-10 grocery stores, pharmacies, gyms, and restaurants within a 1-kilometer radius.

Westend provides excellent amenities density with multiple REWE, Edeka, Aldi, and Lidl locations, plus numerous pharmacies and upscale dining options. The area hosts several premium gyms including Fitness First locations and boutique fitness studios.

Sachsenhausen excels in restaurant variety, particularly along Schweizer Straße, offering everything from traditional German cuisine to international options. The neighborhood maintains good grocery coverage and several pharmacy locations. Nordend similarly provides comprehensive amenities with strong cafe culture and diverse dining scenes.

Bockenheim serves students and families with affordable grocery options, multiple pharmacies, budget-friendly gyms like McFit, and casual dining establishments. The area benefits from university-oriented services and competitive pricing.

Bornheim offers family-focused amenities including larger grocery stores, pediatric pharmacies, family fitness centers, and child-friendly restaurants. Ostend is rapidly developing its amenities infrastructure as the neighborhood gentrifies.

Even emerging areas maintain basic amenities within reasonable walking distance, with Frankfurt's compact urban design ensuring good service coverage throughout the city.

What's the average age and income level of residents in Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt's median age sits at 42 years, with significant variation across neighborhoods reflecting different lifestyle preferences.

Westend attracts affluent professionals and executives, with average household incomes exceeding €80,000-€120,000 annually. The neighborhood skews slightly older, averaging 38-45 years, reflecting established professionals and families. Sachsenhausen draws cultural enthusiasts and young professionals, averaging 32-40 years with incomes ranging €60,000-€90,000.

Nordend appeals to young professionals and creatives, with residents averaging 28-38 years and incomes typically €45,000-€75,000. The area's vibrant nightlife and cultural scene attract younger demographics. Bockenheim, influenced by university proximity, shows the youngest average age at 25-35 years, with mixed income levels from students (€15,000-€25,000) to university staff (€40,000-€65,000).

Bornheim attracts families with children, averaging 35-45 years with stable household incomes of €55,000-€85,000. The neighborhood's family orientation reflects in its demographic stability and longer-term residents.

Ostend represents a transitioning area, currently averaging 30-42 years as young professionals and artists move in, with incomes ranging €35,000-€65,000 but rapidly increasing as the area develops.

Frankfurt's citywide average gross salary of €56,440 reflects the strong economy, though neighborhood variations are substantial.

What's the level of noise pollution and air quality score in Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt maintains generally good air quality with an average AQI of 46-48, though noise levels vary significantly by neighborhood location.

Noise pollution follows EU standards with daytime limits of 55 dB(A) and nighttime limits of 40 dB(A). Westend and Sachsenhausen generally maintain lower noise levels due to tree-lined streets and distance from major traffic arteries. However, properties near the airport experience elevated noise, particularly in western districts.

Innenstadt faces the highest noise pollution from traffic, construction, and commercial activity, often requiring triple-glazed windows in residential buildings. Nordend maintains moderate noise levels, with quieter residential streets buffered from major roads.

Air quality can shift from "Good" to "Poor" (AQI 50-99) during winter months or high-traffic periods. PM2.5 and PM10 levels remain generally low compared to other major European cities. Bockenheim benefits from university area green spaces that help filter air quality.

Bornheim and suburban areas typically enjoy the best air quality and lowest noise pollution due to increased green space and reduced traffic density. Ostend's industrial heritage is improving as the area transitions to residential and commercial use.

Many newer Frankfurt apartments include advanced ventilation systems and soundproofing to mitigate urban pollution concerns.

How well are Frankfurt neighborhoods connected by public transportation?

Frankfurt operates one of Germany's most comprehensive public transportation networks, integrating U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses under the RMV system.

The U-Bahn system includes nine lines (U1-U9) providing excellent coverage of central neighborhoods. Westend connects via multiple stations including Westend, Grüneburgweg, and Holzhausenstraße. Sachsenhausen benefits from U1, U2, and U3 lines with stations like Schweizer Platz and Südbahnhof.

Nordend enjoys access through U4 and U6 lines, while Bockenheim connects via U4, U6, and U7 lines plus several S-Bahn connections. Bornheim primarily uses U4 line connections to reach central Frankfurt efficiently.

S-Bahn lines (S1-S9) provide regional connectivity, essential for reaching Frankfurt Airport (15-20 minutes via S8/S9) and surrounding towns. Tram lines supplement U-Bahn coverage, particularly useful in Sachsenhausen and eastern districts.

Service frequency maintains 5-10 minute intervals during peak hours in central areas, extending to 15-30 minute intervals in suburban zones. Night services operate on weekends, ensuring 24-hour connectivity for major neighborhoods.

The integrated ticketing system covers all transport modes, making transfers seamless throughout the metropolitan area.

What's the expected appreciation rate of real estate in Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt property prices have appreciated approximately 4.8% annually over the past five years, with continued moderate growth expected through 2026.

Premium neighborhoods like Westend and Sachsenhausen have outperformed the market average, achieving 5.5-6.5% annual appreciation due to limited supply and strong demand from international professionals. These areas benefit from proximity to financial institutions and cultural amenities.

Nordend and Bockenheim have shown steady 4.0-5.0% annual growth, supported by young professional demographics and improving infrastructure. The areas attract both investors and owner-occupiers, creating stable demand patterns.

Ostend represents the highest growth potential, with recent appreciation rates of 6.0-8.0% annually as the neighborhood undergoes transformation from industrial to residential use. Early investors in this area have seen significant returns as gentrification accelerates.

Conservative forecasts suggest 3-4% annual appreciation for Frankfurt overall through 2026, though premium locations may continue outperforming. Factors supporting growth include Frankfurt's role as a financial center, limited development land, and continued international investment.

New builds and luxury properties have demonstrated higher appreciation rates than older properties, particularly in central locations with modern amenities.

How many green spaces, parks, and playgrounds are in Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt is renowned for its abundant green spaces, with most neighborhoods offering multiple parks and playgrounds within walking distance.

1. **Westend**: Features the 29-hectare Grüneburgpark, plus several smaller neighborhood parks and multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups.2. **Sachsenhausen**: Offers access to Mainufer parks along the river, Deutschherrnufer green spaces, and the large Stadtwald forest area for outdoor recreation.3. **Nordend**: Contains Bethmannpark with its Chinese garden, Ostpark, and numerous small neighborhood playgrounds integrated into residential areas.4. **Bockenheim**: Benefits from proximity to university botanical gardens, Palmengarten (22 hectares), and several community parks with sports facilities.5. **Bornheim**: Features multiple family-oriented parks including playgrounds, sports courts, and green corridors connecting residential areas.

Frankfurt's green belt concept ensures even dense urban areas maintain access to nature. The city prioritizes playground safety and regular maintenance, with most facilities updated within the past decade.

It's something we develop in our Germany property pack.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Germany versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What percentage of apartments or houses are owner-occupied vs rented in Frankfurt neighborhoods?

Frankfurt maintains approximately 75% rental occupancy citywide, with even higher rental percentages in central and popular districts.

Central neighborhoods like Innenstadt and Sachsenhausen can reach 80-85% rental occupancy due to their appeal to international professionals and young workers who prefer flexibility. Westend shows slightly lower rental rates at 70-75% as more affluent residents choose to purchase luxury properties.

Nordend and Bockenheim maintain high rental percentages around 75-80%, reflecting their popularity with young professionals, students, and temporary residents. These areas benefit from Frankfurt's strong rental market and proximity to employment centers.

Bornheim demonstrates more balanced ownership patterns at 60-70% rentals, as families increasingly choose to purchase homes for long-term stability. Suburban and outlying areas show higher ownership rates, sometimes reaching 50-60% owner-occupied properties.

The high rental percentage reflects Frankfurt's role as an international business center, where many residents maintain temporary or medium-term living arrangements. This creates strong rental demand and stable yields for property investors.

Ostend currently shows high rental occupancy but is transitioning as more buyers recognize the area's investment potential and choose to purchase rather than rent.

Which Frankfurt neighborhood offers the best investment potential for property buyers?

Ostend currently offers the highest investment potential among Frankfurt neighborhoods, combining affordable entry prices with strong appreciation prospects.

This emerging neighborhood has experienced 6.0-8.0% annual property appreciation as it transforms from industrial to residential use. Current purchase prices of €5,200-€7,000 per square meter provide significant upside compared to established areas like Westend (€8,500-€14,500/m²).

Westend remains attractive for luxury investors seeking stable returns and prestige locations, though entry costs are substantially higher. The area offers 3.5-4.2% rental yields with strong capital appreciation potential due to limited supply.

Nordend provides balanced investment opportunities with 4.2-5.0% rental yields and steady 4.0-5.0% annual appreciation. The neighborhood attracts reliable tenant demographics of young professionals and offers good liquidity for resale.

For buy-to-let investors, Bockenheim offers attractive 4.8-5.5% rental yields due to student and young professional demand, though appreciation may be more modest. Bornheim appeals to family-focused investors seeking stable, long-term tenants.

It's something we develop in our Germany property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Global Property Guide - Germany Price History
2. JLL Residential City Profile Frankfurt
3. Johnny Africa Cost of Living Frankfurt
4. Tie Talent Moving to Frankfurt
5. Housenix Living in Frankfurt
6. Numbeo Frankfurt Cost of Living
7. InvestRopa Germany Price Forecasts
8. Engel & Völkers Frankfurt Property Prices
9. Realting Germany Real Estate Guide
10. Housing Anywhere Frankfurt Commuting Guide