Indicators of equal living conditions

Together with Verian (formerly Kantar Public) and the Berlin Institute for Population and Development, Prognos examined the status and progress of equality of living conditions in Germany on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.

Key findings of the study

• Quality of life indicators: From over 157 indicators, 42 key indicators were selected covering four areas: economy & finance, society, infrastructure & public services, and environment & climate. This selection enabled a precise analysis of living conditions in Germany's regions.
• Regional differences: The study shows clear differences between German regions such as east and west, north and south, rural and urban. For example, the unemployment rate is higher in eastern Germany, while western Germany has higher median wages. These contrasts are also reflected in quality of life, crime rates and access to services.
• Convergence process: Despite the differences, living conditions are converging. A convergence process was empirically confirmed for 27 of the 38 indicators analysed.
• Demographic challenges: Demographic factors have a strong influence on living conditions. Rural regions are struggling with depopulation and ageing, while cities are suffering from a shortage of housing and overburdened infrastructure.
• Participation and equal opportunities: Subjective well-being is closely linked to objective living conditions. People in structurally weak regions often rate their living conditions as worse and feel less justice. According to the survey, only 22 per cent of respondents consider conditions to be fair, and this proportion is even lower in the east.
• Subjective life satisfaction: The survey shows predominantly positive life satisfaction. People in rural regions feel safer and more satisfied with their living situation than those in cities. The financial situation of households has a significant influence on satisfaction.

Our approach

Prognos conducted the analysis at regional level in 400 districts and independent cities over a longer ex-post period of five to ten years, enabling regional characteristics to be observed over time. 

The Germany-wide results were then compared with other European countries in order to classify changes in overarching trends (such as demographic developments, structural change processes, etc.).

The description within the framework of the developed set of indicators was compared with the population's perception of the reality of life. Verian conducted a broad-based survey – also at regional level – to determine how citizens perceive and assess aspects of equal living conditions in Germany.

The results of both projects are used to derive recommendations for political action.
The results of the analysis were also incorporated into the German government's Equality Report 2024.

Links and downloads

To the study (PDF, in german)

To the partner study

Further information (website of the BMWE)

Project team: Holger Bornemann, Dr Stefan Moog, Bernhard Wankmüller

Last updated: 11.08.2025