A majority of Germans now regard children as becoming increasingly unaffordable for financial reasons. In a recent Insa survey conducted for ”Bild am Sonntag”, 55 % of respondents agreed with the claim that children are no longer financially feasible in Germany, 34 % disagreed, and 11 % remained undecided.
The survey highlighted the main reasons behind this perception. Eighty‑one percent cited the high cost of living-rent, food, and energy-as the primary driver, 59 % pointed to taxes and other levies, and 48 % felt that state support for families is inadequate. Moreover, 58 % of respondents complained about a shortage of kindergartens and child‑care places.
Regional differences emerged. In West Germany, around 15 % of children under three lack suitable care, while in East Germany a decline in birth rates has led to the closure of some facilities. Income losses due to parental leave or part‑time work were identified by 40 % as a key factor contributing to the financial strain of parenthood.
Insa chief Hermann Binkert told the “Bild” that scepticism is most pronounced among those aged 30 to 49. More than 60 % of this age group consider children to be financially unviable. Binkert warned that, given lower birth rates for years, this sentiment could serve as an early political alarm.
The survey, carried out between 19 and 20 February 2026, included 1,003 participants. Respondents were asked: “What is your view on the statement that children are no longer affordable in Germany?” and “What do you believe is the reason for this?” They could choose from options such as high living costs, high taxes, insufficient child‑care, inadequate state assistance, loss of income due to parental leave or part‑time work, or other reasons. Multiple answers were permitted.