Germany ranks among Europe's top savers, trailing only Switzerland

Data from the Federal Statistical Office show that German households saved a notably larger share of their disposable income in 2025 than the average across the European Union. Only Switzerland posted a higher gross savings rate, reflecting a stronger emphasis on private pension schemes. Among EU members, Italy's savings share was the lowest, roughly matching the United States' modest rate.

The Netherlands and Austria reported intermediate levels of household savings. The gross savings ratio, used for international comparison, includes deposits, investments and newly acquired pension entitlements while excluding depreciation of real estate. The German savings rate had slipped slightly from its 2024 level, after peaking in 2020 during the pandemic when many consumers had excess cash.