Fewer Germans Save for Homeownership as Housing Costs Soar

A new survey reveals a sharp decline in homeownership savings, with high property prices and rising interest rates cited as major barriers.

Only 33% of Germans saving for a specific purpose now prioritize homeownership, down 11 percentage points from last year.
The decline marks the steepest drop in homeownership savings since 2008, according to the survey by the Association of Private Building Societies.
High property prices, increased interest rates, and uncertainty over policies like the heating law and property tax are discouraging potential buyers.
Retirement savings remain the top priority for savers, with 56% citing it as their primary goal, followed by consumption at 45%.
The survey, conducted in October with 2,000 participants aged 14 and older, highlights growing financial challenges for German households.