55% of residents in Germany consider the costs of raising children unaffordable

World News
BB.LV
Publiation data: 03.03.2026 10:44

Этой немецкой девочке повезло - она родилась.

The Federal Republic may fall into a demographic abyss.

A new representative survey by the research institute Insa has shown that for many residents of Germany, having a child has become a serious financial risk. More than half of the participants believe that supporting a family has become expensive, and the costs of raising children are too high. Additionally, many describe the situation as alarming and see it as a reflection of broader economic issues.

As a result, 55% agreed with the statement that children in Germany have become "almost an unaffordable luxury." Meanwhile, 34% expressed the opposite opinion, and 11% were unsure.

Rising costs become a key issue

The challenges associated with the high cost of living concern the majority of respondents. 81% of participants cited rising expenses for housing, food, and energy as the main reasons. 59% believe that taxes and mandatory social contributions create an additional financial burden.

Almost every second respondent stated that government benefits—such as Kindergeld (monthly child allowance) and Elterngeld (support during parental leave)—are insufficient and do not reflect actual expenses.

Moreover, 40% noted that reduced income due to Elternzeit (parental leave) or working Teilzeit (part-time) hinders their ability to plan for family expansion.

Shortage of childcare places, especially in the west

Another significant issue remains the shortage of places in kindergartens. For instance, 58% of respondents admitted that they find it difficult to locate suitable Kita or Betreuung (kindergartens, childcare places). This situation is particularly acute in the western regions of Germany. The publication Bild am Sonntag reports that, according to analysts from the Institute of German Economy (IW), there is a shortage of about 300,000 places for children under three years old in the western part of the country.

Meanwhile, in the eastern states, the opposite trend is observed: due to declining birth rates, some kindergartens in rural areas are closing.

Millennials are more skeptical than others

Among the respondents, the group aged 30 to 49 is particularly critical, reports berliner-zeitung.de. According to Insa director Hermann Binkert, more than 60% of individuals in this age group believe that the costs of raising children are too high. Many are currently reaching the age when they typically start families, making their opinions especially significant.

Additionally, the decline in birth rates recorded in recent years heightens the concern among politicians. The birth rate has already dropped to levels seen in the mid-1990s, and the survey results are perceived as a serious signal for the government.

Demographic challenges become increasingly noticeable

Experts believe that the negative attitude towards financial costs may impact the country's demographics. The decline in birth rates may continue if the government does not strengthen the family support system. The issue of reforming family policy is becoming increasingly urgent.