Archive · 11 Dec 2025
Germany's Population to Shrink and Age
Germany's population is expected to get smaller and older.
By 2070, there might be about 75 million people, which is almost 10 million fewer than now.
More than a quarter of the population will be of pension age by 2038.
This means there will be fewer workers to support more retirees, putting pressure on the welfare system.
The only way the population might grow is if there is high immigration and more babies are born.
Businesses are already feeling a shortage of workers, and politicians are dealing with people's concerns about immigration.
Germany's population is projected to shrink to 75 million by 2070, a decrease of nearly 10 million.
By 2038, 27% of the population, or 21 million people, will be of pension age.
The number of pensioners per 100 workers is expected to rise from 33 to 61 by 2070 in the worst-case scenario.
There could be less than two contributors per pension benefits recipient by 2070, increasing pressure on the welfare system.
Population growth is only expected in scenarios with high immigration and rising birth rates.
- Who
- Germany's population
- What
- Shrinking and aging
- When
- By 2070
- Where
- Germany
- Why
- Due to aging population and low birth rates
- Current Population
- 83 million
- Projected Population by 2070
- 75 million
- Pension Age Population by 2038
- 21 million (27%)
- Current Pensioners per 100 Workers
- 33
- Projected Pensioners per 100 Workers by 2070
- 61 (worst case)
- Contributors per Pension Benefits Recipient by 2070
- Less than 2 (worst case)