Berlin has 12 official boroughs and 96 localities, which for the most part, are self-sustained, offering different lifestyles and pros and cons. For example, Charlottenburg, Wilmersdorf, Grunewald, and Prenzlauer Berg are highly sought-after by families with children whereas 

Mitte, Tiergarten, Kreuzberg, and Friedrichshain are preferred by young professionals and solo expats who are keen on making the most of Berlin's nightlife. In general, the further out of the city center, the more affordable renting accommodation in Berlin becomes. If you would like to live in a trendy, upscale neighborhood close to most of Berlin's tourist sites, then Mitte and Charlottenburg are for you. These central neighborhoods are gentrifying rapidly, so rental prices are going up. Besides great shopping and nightlife experiences, both neighborhoods offer endless food options in Berlin for all budgets and taste buds. Just south of Charlottenburg is Schoneberg, where cultures blend. Unlike Mitte and Charlottenburg, Schoenberg is more middle-class-friendly — this area is a meeting spot for families, couples, and single adults from diverse backgrounds. Traditionally, Schoenberg has been formed by the Jewish, immigrant, and LGBT communities, which have given the area a unique personality that values personal freedoms and equal rights. Heading east, Neukolln is considered a grungy area — graffiti and street art are far more noticeable here than in the other neighborhoods mentioned above. This area is more affordable, and it mainly attracts immigrants and artists. Thanks to the immigrants who have settled in Neukolln, you can find food and markets selling ingredients from all over the world! Lastly, Lichtenberg, while farther out, is an affordable option with access to other neighborhoods. Getting around Berlin is easy as the transportation system is well-organized, and the network is leaving no place disconnected. The train goes just about everywhere and runs all night, and buses are also convenient and on time. Day tickets start from 8.80 EUR, and the price increases as you are adding more fare zones. If you are commuting on a daily basis, you should consider purchasing the monthly unlimited transit pass. Of course, there are plenty of taxis and ride-sharing apps available, but you will most likely need them only on special occasions. Prefer to travel by the most eco-friendly means of transport? There are plenty of bike-share apps available, and Berlin boasts a vast network of bike lanes. You should be cautious when cycling, but overall, drivers and pedestrians look out for bikers. Parking is free in the outer neighborhoods and costs between one and three euros per hour in metered areas. Underground garages are common, especially in neighborhoods where there is heavy traffic. If you are concerned about crime, bear in mind that Berlin is a very safe city, earning top marks in global comparisons. Crime has recently hit its lowest point in at least 30 years, and more than half of reported crimes are solved. Even though it is common to walk down a dark street and feel perfectly safe, we insist that you should exercise caution as in every big city — Berlin has almost the same rates of purse snatching and pickpocketing as other European cities, and there have been increases in credit fraud. Luckily, violent crime is rarely targeted at foreigners, but be especially aware when you withdraw from an ATM. Only do so in a well-lit area and stay observant of what's going on around you. Heading east, Neukolln is considered a grungy area — graffiti and street art are far more noticeable here than in the other neighborhoods mentioned above. This area is more affordable, and it mainly attracts immigrants and artists. Thanks to the immigrants who have settled in Neukolln, you can find food and markets selling ingredients from all over the world! Lastly, Lichtenberg, while farther out, is an affordable option with access to other neighborhoods.