Germany's Homeless Population Surges to Over Half a Million

New government report reveals a near doubling of homelessness since 2022, driven by underreporting and the inclusion of Ukrainian refugees.

The latest federal report shows 531,600 people in Germany are homeless, up from 263,000 in 2022, representing a nearly 100% increase.
The rise is partly attributed to improved data collection and the inclusion of 137,000 Ukrainian refugees housed in temporary accommodations without rental contracts.
Homelessness is categorized into three groups: those in emergency housing (439,500), those staying with acquaintances (60,400), and those living on the street or in makeshift shelters (47,300).
The report highlights long-term challenges, with over half of street homeless individuals experiencing violence and discrimination since losing their housing.
The German government has committed €20 billion to social housing by 2028 and aims to end homelessness entirely by 2030 through its National Action Plan.