The risk of poverty affects 17.6 million people in Germany
In Germany, 17.6 million people were at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2025, accounting for 21.2% of the population, according to the German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis).
The data shows a continued rise compared to 2024, when 20.9% of residents faced similar risks. This upward trend has been developing for years, increasing steadily from 19% in 2017, highlighting a growing social challenge for Europe’s largest economy.
Destatis reported that poverty risk varies widely depending on household structure and employment status. People living alone face a risk rate of 30.9%, while single-parent households stand at 28.7%. The most vulnerable group remains the unemployed, with a poverty risk rate of 64.9%.
Retirees are also affected, with 19.1% considered at risk, although this remains slightly below the national average. Experts warn that rising living costs and unstable employment continue to push more people toward financial insecurity.
The European Union defines the poverty line as earning less than 60% of the median income. In Germany, this meant a monthly net income below €1,446 for a single person in 2025, and below €3,036 for a household of two adults with two children, according to Destatis data.