Leaving Home Early: Germany's Young Adults vs the EU
Individuals of German origin depart their residences at comparatively early hours.
Youngsters in Germany tend to exit their parents' nest earlier than their EU counterparts, with an average age of 23.9 years old, as per the Federal Statistical Office.[1] This is a significant contrast to the EU average of 26.2 years.[1] Notably, gender differences are apparent in Germany, with men, on average, lingering at home until the age of 24.6, while women typically move out at 23.1.[1]
European Neighbors and Scandinavian Countries
Remarkably, some of Germany's neighbors, such as the Netherlands (23.2 years) and France (23.5 years), exhibit early moving-out ages, while Finland (21.4 years) and Denmark (21.7 years) show the earliest departure from the parental home among EU countries.[1] On the other hand, Croatia, Slovakia, and Greece have the longest-living adult children, with averages of 31.3, 30.9, and 30.7 years, respectively.[1]
Gender Differences Worldwide
It is a global trend that men usually take more time to leave their parents' homes than women. This pattern is observed in various countries, including Germany, where men typically move out later than women.[1] However, comprehensive global data on gender differences in moving-out ages is scarce.
Financial Challenges and Delayed Move-Out
Becoming independent and purchasing a home often hinges on factors like economic conditions, housing prices, and labor market stability. Across the globe, young people face difficulties in attaining homeownership due to escalating housing costs and living expenses.[2] This predicament may also push back the age at which individuals depart their parents' homes, as they might need to delay moving for financial reasons.
- References:
- ntv.de
- Various sources (not specifically cited in the article)
Community policy makers might consider implementing vocational training programs to help young adults gain job skills and move out of their parents' homes earlier, as observed in Germany. This may contribute to a more self-sufficient lifestyle for young people, who often face financial challenges in attaining homeownership, leading to delayed moves due to escalating housing costs and living expenses. Additionally, home-and-garden stores could offer educational workshops as part of their vocational training initiatives to provide practical skills that could help young adults set up their first homes.
