Hesse is changing: Almost every third person has immigration history!

Hesse is changing: Almost every third person has immigration history!

Werra-Meißner-Kreis, Deutschland - A fresh wind blows through Hesse: The latest data from the State Statistical Office show that immigration is not only a relevant topic, but also shapes the demographic structure of the federal state sustainably. In 2024, almost a third of the Hessian population, exactly 32.7 percent, had an immigration history. This corresponds to approximately 2.04 million people, of which 1.5 million have immigrated, while the remaining approximately 540,000 are counted as descendants by immigrant parents. The proportion increased by 1.3 percentage points compared to the previous year, which illustrates the dynamic development of Hessian society, such as [FAZ.net] (https://www.faz.net/aktuell/rhein-main/region-und-und-verjuengt-hessen-hessen-zeigen-demographische--110528715.html) reported.

This trend is particularly pronounced in the urban centers. In Frankfurt am Main, for example, almost half of the population (49.8%) has an immigration history. In Wiesbaden (43.5%), Darmstadt and Offenbach are also significantly higher than the Hessian average. In contrast, the East Hessian counties such as Fulda, Hersfeld-Rotenburg and the Schwalm-Seder-Kreis with only 23.8 percent are the final lights, such as the [FR.DE] (https://www.fr.de/frankfurt/ Vielfalt-in-hessen-fast-jede-perse-perse-ein-einungsgeschichte-mit-zr-93779550.html) Notice.

immigrated population rejuvenates Hessen

A remarkable aspect of migration to Hesse is the rejuvenation of the population. According to the statistics, more than half (50.7%) of the total population was under 45 years old in 2022, while this share was even 61.9% in people with immigration history. The average age of the total population is 43.4 years; In contrast, the immigrants are only 38.4 years. These are clear indications that immigration in recent decades not only ensures demographic change, but also ensures further training and rejuvenation of the Hessian social structure.

The main reasons that persuade people to move to Hesse have remained diverse in recent years. Around 28.1 percent of immigrants came due to escape, asylum and international protection, while 25.1 percent focused on family reunification. Employment also plays an important role with 24.4 percent, followed by around 7.5 percent of those who have come to Hesse to study or train.

demographic effects and future challenges

The data is based on the microcensus, which has asked one percent of the Hessian population about work and living conditions since 1957. These surveys are not only important for political decisions, they also provide valuable information on the social and economic situation in the country. However, the microcensus only captures households in private households, so that those seeking protection are not included in shared accommodation, which could possibly distort the actual figures.

Overall, it can be said that immigration is a central topic for Hessian society. The emerging demographic change not only stirs up challenges, but also harbors opportunities for a colorful and diverse future of Hesse.