Study Reveals 5.4 Million More Germans Affected by Poverty When Housing Costs Are Considered

The inclusion of housing expenses in poverty calculations shows over 21% of Germany's population struggles financially, with single and elderly individuals most impacted.

A new study by the Paritätischer Gesamtverband highlights that 17.5 million people in Germany live in poverty when housing costs are accounted for, 5.4 million more than previously reported.
Housing costs consume over a third of income for many households, with some spending more than half, leaving little for other necessities.
Single-person households, retirees, young adults under 25, and single parents are disproportionately affected, particularly in regions like Bremen, Hamburg, and Sachsen-Anhalt.
The study criticizes traditional poverty metrics for excluding housing costs, which obscures the full extent of financial hardship in the country.
Experts call for urgent policy measures, including expanded social housing, rent controls, and improved social safety nets, to address Germany's growing housing-driven poverty crisis.