Eastern Europeans Lead Germany’s Immigrant Happiness Rankings

Germany’s growing immigrant population is displaying clear differences in life satisfaction, according to the latest findings from the Federal Institute for Population Research (BiB). The 2025 Well-Being Monitor reveals that people of Eastern European origin report the highest happiness levels in the country, while other groups—especially recent arrivals and descendants of immigrants—face more mixed experiences.

Rising Satisfaction Across Germany

According to the study, overall life satisfaction in Germany has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels. Half of the population now describe themselves as “very satisfied” with their lives, reflecting a general rebound in mood following the years of economic uncertainty and restrictions during the coronavirus crisis.

The upward trend extends to immigrant populations, who represent more than one quarter of Germany’s 83 million residents. Researchers surveyed 30,000 individuals aged 20 to 52 to assess not just personal happiness, but also how well integration policies and economic factors contribute to overall well-being.

Eastern Europeans Report Highest Well-Being

Among all immigrant groups, those from Eastern Europe stand out for their strong sense of contentment. Nearly one in four respondents born in Poland, the Czech Republic, or the successor states of the Soviet Union described themselves as “very satisfied” with life in Germany. This figure significantly exceeds the national average of 17 percent.

Experts attribute this to a combination of cultural proximity and stable migration experiences. Eastern European immigrants typically face fewer traumatic circumstances than asylum seekers and have benefited from smoother integration into German society. Their familiarity with European work environments and linguistic similarities may also support faster adaptation and job security.

The ‘Integration Paradox’ Among Second Generations

While first-generation immigrants tend to show rising satisfaction over time, their children often report lower levels of happiness. Researchers describe this as the “integration paradox,” a concept introduced by sociologist Aladin El-Mafaalani. It highlights how greater participation in society can lead to increased frustration when social barriers persist.

Second-generation immigrants frequently seek not just acceptance but influence within their communities. When they face discrimination, unequal opportunities, or lack of recognition for their skills, dissatisfaction grows. The study suggests that unmet expectations and perceived inequality play a key role in this generational divide.

The Role of Language and Social Participation

One of the strongest predictors of happiness among immigrants is German language proficiency. Respondents who speak German regularly at home reported higher satisfaction rates across all groups. Researchers found that language skills enhance both social belonging and economic opportunity, directly linking communication ability to emotional well-being.

Access to the labor market, educational opportunities, and community participation were also identified as decisive factors. The longer immigrants live in Germany, the more likely they are to report higher satisfaction levels—especially when they achieve stable employment and a secure living environment.

Ukrainians Face Ongoing Challenges

Ukrainians, who now form the largest group of refugees in Germany, continue to experience lower levels of well-being. Around half of them describe themselves as “not very satisfied” with life. The ongoing war in Ukraine remains a major factor affecting their emotional state, particularly among older women separated from family members still involved in the conflict.

However, researchers also note gradual improvements since 2022. Gains in language skills, improved housing conditions, and growing employment rates have contributed to a modest rise in satisfaction among Ukrainians. These findings underline how integration efforts can gradually offset the impact of trauma and displacement.

Uneven Happiness Across Immigrant Groups

While Eastern Europeans top the list of satisfied immigrants, individuals from Asia and Africa reported significantly lower levels of happiness. Roughly one in three in these groups expressed dissatisfaction with life in Germany. According to BiB researchers, experiences of racism and social exclusion play a major role in shaping these perceptions.

Syrian refugees, by contrast, show relatively strong well-being. Nearly one in three Syrians describes themselves as very satisfied—an outcome researchers associate with their higher protection status and greater access to family reunification programs compared to refugees from Iraq or Eritrea.

Germans Abroad Find Joy Elsewhere

Interestingly, Germans who emigrate often report even greater life satisfaction than those who stay. The Well-Being Monitor shows that emigrants to southern European countries such as Spain, Italy, and Portugal are particularly content. Researchers attribute this to warmer climates, lower living costs, and a more relaxed lifestyle.

However, those still considering emigration but yet to make the move tend to be less satisfied, possibly reflecting a longing for change rather than discontent with life in Germany itself.

Integration and Well-Being: A Long-Term Connection

Overall, the findings confirm a clear pattern: life satisfaction grows with time spent in Germany. Economic participation, stable housing, language proficiency, and social acceptance all contribute to happiness. Yet disparities persist between groups, underlining that integration is both a social and emotional process.

For policymakers, the study emphasizes the need to focus on language training, faster recognition of foreign qualifications, and improved access to employment. As Germany continues to rely on immigration to address labor shortages, ensuring the well-being of newcomers will remain central to its long-term social stability.