Does Berlin Have a Homeless Problem?

When discussing homelessness, many clients from the U.S. often ask, “Does Berlin have a homeless problem?” The perception may be influenced by their experiences in major U.S. cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles, where visible homelessness has surged in recent years. In contrast, homelessness in Berlin can sometimes feel hidden—especially for those who only visit the touristy areas of the city. Yet, it is a growing and serious issue that warrants attention.

Understanding the Numbers

According to recent data from the Berlin Senate (as of December 2024), the number of people experiencing homelessness in Berlin has more than doubled in just two years. Around 52,000 people currently lack a permanent home, compared to approximately 26,000 just three years ago—when reliable data on homelessness in the city was first collected.

This increase reflects a worsening housing crisis: Berlin’s population of nearly four million faces one of the tightest housing markets in Europe. Affordable rents have become a “wishful dream” for many residents, as the city struggles with limited housing supply and rising living costs.

Looking ahead, projections from the Senate’s social administration warn that the situation may deteriorate further. If current trends continue, the number of homeless individuals could rise by nearly 60 percent by 2030, leaving around 85,600 people without housing. When factoring in refugees and other displaced people who also need accommodation, the total housing need could reach over 114,000 places by the end of the decade.

To put these figures in perspective: in the United States, Los Angeles alone has counted over 45,000 homeless individuals, while New York City has reported more than 350,000 people experiencing homelessness at some point. Nationwide, roughly 607,000 people in Germany experienced homelessness in 2023, with around 50,000 sleeping rough.

In both countries, these numbers reflect broader systemic issues—chiefly a shortage of affordable housing and social safety nets that fail to catch those most at risk.

The Visibility Factor

Tourists and newcomers to Berlin may not see the homeless population as prominently as in U.S. cities. Many individuals experiencing homelessness can be found in U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations, under bridges, and in certain neighborhoods. The perception that homelessness is less of an issue in Berlin may stem from a lack of visibility rather than a lack of need.

In fact, the “Housing First” approach—developed in the U.S. in the late 1980s—aims to provide stable housing as a primary solution for homelessness, with many countries, including Germany, now implementing similar programs. This method emphasizes that providing housing can significantly reduce the need for costly emergency services associated with chronic homelessness.

If you find yourself near the Zoologischer Garten train station, perhaps while staying at the Waldorf Astoria or shopping along Kurfürstendamm or at KaDeWe, you may notice a higher presence of homeless individuals in this area. This is largely due to the nearby Bahnhofsmission, a vital social service center that provides immediate assistance to those in need. Serving over two million people annually, the Bahnhofsmission operates without bureaucratic hurdles, offering support and services to everyone, regardless of their situation. Their commitment to providing help—often at times when other services are unavailable—ensures that individuals experiencing homelessness can access essential resources. This central hub of social support makes the surrounding area a more visible space for homelessness, shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by these individuals while also reflecting the community's efforts to provide assistance. Bahnhofsmissionen are facilities operated by the Protestant and Catholic Churches.

Structural vs. Individual Factors

Both structural and individual factors contribute to homelessness. In the U.S., mental health and addiction issues, particularly the fentanyl crisis, have exacerbated the problem. While fentanyl—a synthetic opioid—has led to a public health crisis in the U.S., experts suggest that it has not yet become as widespread in Berlin. Nonetheless, there are concerns that drug use could escalate if systemic issues are not addressed.

In Germany, the government is often criticized for not doing enough to provide adequate housing solutions. While Berlin has a range of services, including the Kältebus (a winter bus service providing shelter and warm supplies) and facilities that offer emergency overnight accommodations, critics argue that these measures fall short. For example, the recent introduction of “housing boxes” in Neukölln, which provide minimal space without basic amenities, highlights the struggle to create effective solutions.

Political Dynamics

Politics play a decisive role in how Berlin addresses homelessness. The city’s previous left-leaning government pursued policies expanding social support and tenant protections, whereas the current, more conservative administration has been criticized for scaling back those initiatives. The ongoing debate centers on whether Berlin’s social safety net can be strengthened enough to prevent the projected surge in homelessness—or whether market forces will continue to push vulnerable residents out of stable housing.

City Tours by former Homeless People

One impactful initiative addressing homelessness in Berlin is Querstadtein, a nonprofit organization that offers city tours led by former homeless individuals. Through these tours, the guides share their personal experiences of living without a permanent home, highlighting the specific locations in public spaces where they once lived. This unique perspective is complemented by insights from newcomers to Berlin, including refugees from countries like Syria and Iraq, who share their own experiences and perspectives on their new city. These guided tours not only provide an opportunity for dialogue and understanding but also help to break down barriers and challenge preconceived notions about homelessness and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. As a nonprofit, Querstadtein is dedicated to promoting public education, charitable causes, and the arts and culture, fostering a deeper awareness of the complexities surrounding homelessness in Berlin.

Conclusion: Moving Forward

Homelessness in Berlin is a growing crisis, not an isolated issue. The latest Senate forecast paints a troubling picture of rising housing insecurity—one that demands coordinated action from government, civil society, and citizens alike.

Whether through volunteering, supporting organizations like the Bahnhofsmission or Querstadtein, or advocating for stronger housing policies, individuals can make a difference.

Recognizing that homelessness is not merely a matter of individual failure, but a reflection of systemic shortcomings, is the first step toward lasting change. Berlin’s challenge in the years ahead will be ensuring that every resident—no matter their circumstances—has a place to call home.