Germany's 35-Year-Olds: Diverse, Educated, and Driving the Economy
Germany's 35-year-olds, born in 1990, the same year as German reunification, are a diverse and well-educated group. They make up 1.4 percent of the world population, with many living in living spaces and having an immigration background.
In 2024, 35-year-olds were more likely to be married or in a civil partnership (54%) and living with children (56%) than the overall population. They were also more likely to be employed, with 90% of men and 79% of women working. Despite their high educational attainment—34% with a university degree and 34% with vocational qualifications—their average gross income was slightly below the national average (€4,555 vs. €4,634).
35-year-olds were over-represented in cities like Leipzig, Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt am Main. They were also more likely to have an immigration background, with 36% having one, compared to 26% across the entire us population. Notably, 29% immigrated to Germany themselves after reunification. However, 64% lived in rented accommodation, indicating a higher proportion than the general population.
Germany's 35-year-olds, born in 1990, are a significant and distinct group within the population. They are well-educated, diverse, and contribute significantly to the workforce. As they approach middle age, their living and working circumstances will continue to shape Germany's social and economic landscape.
