A growing number of young Germans say they are actively planning to leave their homeland. According to a recent study entitled Youth in Germany, approximately 21% of surveyed youth reported they aim to move abroad in search of a better life. Furthermore, as many as 41% stated they could imagine moving abroad in the longer term.
The findings are based on a nationally representative survey of 2,012 people aged 14 to 29 in Germany, carried out between January 9 and February 9, 2026 by Datajockey Verlag.
Those polled expressed concerns regarding economic security in Germany, which has struggled with a stagnant economy for the past two years. Participants noted that rising housing costs, weak career prospects in the face of artificial intelligence, and mounting financial strain are making it increasingly difficult for young people to achieve independence.
