Which Federal States Are Above the National Average?
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) represents the total economic output of goods and services within Germany, irrespective of whether the contributors are German nationals or foreign citizens. GDP can be measured in different forms, including “per capita” or “per employed person.” It’s fascinating to observe which regions of the country are thriving economically and which ones lag behind. The following graphic provides a look at GDP per capita by federal state, offering insights into which areas perform above or below the national average.
Bremen in Third Place – A Surprise?
Remarkably, Bremen ranks third in GDP per capita among Germany’s federal states, following Hamburg and Bavaria. This might come as a surprise to many, given that Bremen has traditionally faced economic challenges and relies on financial equalization payments from other states. So, why does Bremen achieve such a high per capita GDP?
One explanation lies in its population structure and geographical setting: Bremen and Hamburg are city-states with relatively small populations compared to Germany’s larger territorial states. Both cities have major international ports that significantly contribute to their economies. As economic output is divided across fewer residents, the GDP per capita calculation rises. In Hamburg, the high purchasing power of residents further accentuates this effect.
It’s perhaps less surprising to see East Germany collectively occupying the lower rankings in this list. Even 34 years after reunification, economic disparities between East and West Germany persist.
Conclusion
The comparison of GDP per capita highlights the stark differences in economic strength across Germany. City-states like Hamburg and Bremen achieve high per capita figures thanks to their ports, while other regions, especially in the East, still have room to catch up. These regional disparities raise the question of how Germany can foster a more balanced economic development over the long term—a challenge that would not only enhance national competitiveness but also improve quality of life across all federal states.
