Parity Association identifies disproportionate poverty levels in Germany

The Parity Welfare Association (Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband) investigated poverty rates in Germany. Conclusions show that poverty has reached new levels, affecting single parents, senior citizens and those living on their own disproportionately.

Highest poverty rate since 2020

While poverty had been decreasing since 2020, it is now back at record highs. In 2025, 16,1 percent of Germany’s population lived below the poverty line, 0,6 percent more than in the previous year. This number equates to 13,3 million people living in poverty or at risk of poverty.

By definition, to be classified as at risk of poverty in Germany, one does not have access to 60 percent of the average income. For residents living on their own, this threshold lies at a net income of 1.445 euros per month.

The Parity Welfare Association is one of the six major welfare organisations in Germany, pursuing social justice through means of lobbying. Head of the Association Joachim Rock called the situation a “crisis”, in a warning to the government, reports the Tagesschau. If it continues cutting social services, the picture the report paints is expected to become more dire.

Disproportionate poverty in Germany

Poverty affects regions in Germany to varying degrees. Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg are the least affected, while Bremen, Hamburg, Berlin and Saxony-Anhalt experience high levels of poverty, up to 27,5 percent.

Statistically, with age, people are more likely to be below the poverty threshold. According to the association's report, every fifth person aged 65 and older is considered poor. Other than single parents and people living by themselves, those with what is considered a low level of education are dealing with the consequences of high poverty in Germany as well.

The association observed that “poverty increases where structural differences persist”, referring to population groups with little access to education, the job market or German citizenship.