Kassel leads Glücksatlas 2025 - why life satisfaction sinks!

Kassel leads Glücksatlas 2025 - why life satisfaction sinks!

In Baden-Württemberg, there seems to be a bizarre contradiction: Although the economic situation in the country looks brilliant, many people in the big cities feel dissatisfied. Results from the current lucky atlas of the southern German class lottery (SKL) show that average life satisfaction in major German cities has increased slightly, but there is a cause for concern in Baden-Württemberg.

According to the latest surveys, Kassel takes first place in Germany with 7.44 points, while Rostock forms the bottom of the light with a lean 6.08 points. But what about the cities in Baden-Württemberg? Mannheim defies the trend and ends up in 17th place among the 40 largest cities in Germany with 7.09 points, which makes it the happiest city in the country. However, Stuttgart and Freiburg are only in places 19 and 21, while Karlsruhe, despite the objectively high quality of life, with 38th place is the most dissatisfied city in Baden-Württemberg, how Merkur reported.

The situation in Baden-Württemberg

quality of life is classified objectively in Karlsruhe. The city shines with low unemployment rates and strong economic power, but 14.2 percent of the residents feel dissatisfied. This shows that happiness does not depend exclusively on economic factors. Researchers emphasize that intangible aspects, such as a strong sense of community and less everyday stress, are crucial for people's satisfaction.

Stuttgart has a high average income of 4,750 euros, but at the same time also high rental prices of EUR 14.34 per square meter. This could explain why despite the prosperity, many Stuttgart are not happy. In addition, there is little cultural and leisure area per inhabitant, which could also cloud the attitude to life. Freiburg scores with excellent health care, but has to fight with rising rents and a growing crime rate. [Merkur]

comparison to other cities

In a nationwide comparison, the situation in Baden-Württemberg is worrying. Almost all cities in the state are considered underperformers with regard to life satisfaction. While the average of all 40 cities rose by 0.15 points, life satisfaction in Baden-Württemberg is more in the middle of the field.

A total of 23,468 people were interviewed for the survey between January 2022 and April 2025. It turned out that cities with fewer than 400,000 inhabitants in particular reach an average of 7.01. In cities with up to one million inhabitants, this value is already 6.92, and only 6.90 points in the millions.

These amazing results show that more than just material values ​​are decisive for individual well -being. The focus should therefore not only be on economic indicators, but also to create a better living environment with a strong community and active leisure opportunities. [Merkur]