The use of social media in Germany has risen sharply over the past five years across all age groups. In 2025, 59 percent of people aged 16 to 74 reported using social media for private purposes, according to a statement from the German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on Monday. This marks a clear increase from 2021, when less than half of the population (47 percent) was active on social platforms. The figure covers activities such as creating an account, publishing posts and interacting with other users, but does not include messenger services.
Usage is highest among younger adults. In 2025, 85 percent of 16‑to‑24‑year‑olds were active on social media. For 25‑to‑34‑year‑olds and 35‑to‑44‑year‑olds the percentages were 81 percent and 72 percent, respectively. The proportion drops steadily with age: only a quarter of people aged 65 to 74 were active in 2025.
When comparing the figures to 2021, the rise in social media use is evident in every age group, with the biggest gains among older users. The share of 65‑to‑74‑year‑olds climbed from 15 percent in 2021 to 25 percent in 2025, while 55‑to‑64‑year‑olds increased from 29 percent to 42 percent, and even the already high 16‑to‑24‑year‑old group grew from 78 percent to 85 percent.
With 59 percent active, Germany has one of the lowest social‑media penetration rates in the European Union. Only Italy is close, with 56 percent of its 16‑to‑74‑year‑olds using social platforms. The EU average is 67 percent. Across all age groups, the EU figures are higher than Germany’s. The most extensive use in the EU is seen in Denmark (90 percent), Cyprus (87 percent) and Malta (82 percent).