New data released Tuesday by Germany’s Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), based on preliminary results from the 2024 Microcensus, reveals a significant disparity in commuting patterns between students and employed professionals The study indicates that students are considerably more likely to endure lengthy commutes to educational institutions
Approximately 16 percent of students regularly spend an hour or more each way traveling from their residence to their university or college This figure sharply contrasts with the 6 percent of working commuters who face comparable travel times Furthermore, over a quarter (27 percent) of students require more than 30 minutes for their journey, but less than an hour The largest group, comprising 43 percent, commutes between 10 and 30 minutes Just 14 percent have a commute of under ten minutes
The data also highlights the geographical distances involved Over a quarter (28 percent) of students travel 25 kilometers or more to reach their institution, with 14 percent needing to travel 50 kilometers or more each way Another 14 percent travel between 25 and 50 kilometers While a considerable distance exists for many, the majority (34 percent) actually live less than five kilometers from their university or college
Regarding modes of transport, public transportation is the dominant choice for students, utilized by 53 percent This is a considerable increase compared to the 16 percent of working commuters who rely on buses and trains Private cars account for the second most popular option amongst students with 22 percent, followed by bicycles (15 percent) and walking (9 percent)