Overview of the Report and Publisher
The Moses Mendelssohn Institut (MMI), a research institute linked to the Moses Mendelssohn Stiftung and the VICTORIA International University, publishes this analysis of student housing costs across German university towns for the winter semester 2025/26. The institute specialises in real‑estate research and Jewish cultural heritage, combining academic expertise with data from partners such as WG‑Gesucht.de.
Key Findings on Student Housing Costs
The study shows that average monthly housing costs for first‑year students have risen to €505, surpassing the €500 threshold for the first time. Compared with the summer semester 2025 (€493) this is an increase of €12 (2.4 %). Since winter semester 2024/25 (€489) the rise is €16 (3.3 %). In 70 of the 88 examined cities, typical rooms cost more than the current BAföG housing allowance of €380, and in 44 cities even the lower‑cost segment exceeds this limit.
Regional Disparities Across Germany
Housing costs vary markedly by federal state. Students in Bavaria (€603), Hamburg (€620) and Berlin (€650) face the highest rents, while those in Saxony‑Anhalt (€350), Thuringia (€362) and Saxony (€377) pay considerably less. In the large‑state regions, costs range from Cologne, Düsseldorf and Bonn at around €600 to cheaper cities such as Bielefeld (€360) and Hildesheim (€362).
Impact on BAföG Housing Allowance
The current BAföG allowance of €380 is insufficient for the majority of students, with three‑quarters living above the limit. The coalition agreement proposes raising the allowance to €440, which would reduce the number of affected cities to 44, but still leave over half of students paying beyond the allowance.
Price Development Trends
Since 2019, the strongest rent increases have been observed in Berlin (+€170), Bavaria (+€133) and Baden‑Württemberg (+€120). Overall, the national average has risen from €489 to €505 per month, indicating a persistent upward pressure on student housing markets.
Recommendations for Policy Makers
The institute suggests regular adjustments to the BAföG housing allowance, expansion of the federal “Junges Wohnen” programme, stronger support for non‑profit providers (student services, foundations, local initiatives) and increased commitments from federal states to create affordable student accommodation.
Methodology and Data Sources
The analysis covers all German university locations with more than 5,000 students (excluding distance‑learning and administrative institutions). Data are drawn from WG‑Gesucht.de listings of standard shared‑flat rooms (two‑to‑three‑person WG units) and reflect warm rents, including utilities and furnishings. The sample comprises 10 660 offers, providing a reliable indicator of the broader student housing market.
Relevance for Sustainable Housing
High rental levels push students towards shared living arrangements, which can reduce per‑capita energy use and promote more efficient utilisation of existing housing stock. However, the lack of affordable options may also lead to longer commutes or sub‑optimal living conditions, undermining sustainability goals. The report highlights the need for policy measures that align housing affordability with environmental objectives, encouraging the development of energy‑efficient, low‑cost student dwellings.