Overview

• The median net wealth of German households reached €103,100 in 2023, according to the IW analysis of Bundesbank data.
• Households need over €777,200 to join the top ten percent of wealth holders in Germany.
• Net assets follow a life-cycle trajectory, climbing from €17,300 for under-35s to a peak of €241,100 for those aged 55 to 64 before falling in retirement.
• Homeownership is a key driver of wealth, with fewer than 10 percent of under-35s owning homes versus more than half of 55- to 64-year-olds.
• IW distribution experts say reducing income-tax burdens could expand private wealth-building opportunities beyond current homeowner and older demographics.