Berlin Sees Increase in Births After Years of Decline: Key Areas with Highest Birth Rates

Berlin has witnessed a resurgence in birth rates after several years of decline, with the latest data from the city's population register indicating a total of 34,948 births in 2024. This figure marks a 4.6% increase, or 1,523 more births compared to 2023 when 33,425 births were recorded. Despite this positive trend in birth rates, the city also experienced an uptick in the number of deaths, resulting in a net birth deficit.

As of December 31, 2024, the number of deaths rose to 39,612, reflecting a 5.8% increase, or an additional 2,157 deaths compared to the previous year. This return to levels similar to those seen in 2021 highlights the complex demographic challenges facing the city.

Out of Berlin's twelve districts, ten reported increases in their birth rates. Notably, Spandau emerged as the leader with a remarkable 15.6% increase, significantly surpassing the citywide average. In specific neighborhoods such as Eiswerder and Germersheimer Platz, the increase in births was even more pronounced, soaring by 60.9% and 45.5%, respectively.

In contrast, districts such as Neukölln and Lichtenberg experienced declines in birth rates, with reductions of 1.5% and 1.2%, respectively. In Neukölln, the northern areas, particularly around Reuterplatz and Maybachufer, saw significant drops of 30% and 23% in births. Lichtenberg also faced a general decrease across half of its planning areas.

Looking at the data more closely, the most significant decreases in births were recorded in the planning areas of Orankesee (-40.0%), Victoriastadt (-32.1%), and Bornitzstraße (-31.8%).

Alongside the rise in birth rates, 2024 also saw an increase in deaths following a two-year decline. The total number of deaths rose by 5.8%, with Marzahn-Hellersdorf experiencing the highest increase at 10.1%. This included notable rises in specific planning areas such as Mahlsdorf-Nord (+35.5%) and Alt-Kaulsdorf (+33.8%).

Interestingly, Neukölln recorded the lowest increase in deaths at just 1.6%, with 23 out of 46 planning areas showing a decrease in mortality rates compared to the previous year.

Steglitz-Zehlendorf, recognized as one of Berlin's oldest districts, reported the highest surplus of deaths over births, with 1,657 more deaths than births in 2024. This district had a total of 3,850 deaths, marking a slight increase of 0.4% from the previous year. In contrast, areas such as Mitte, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, and Pankow saw substantial positive birth balances.

Overall, Berlin's demographic landscape remains dynamic, with significant variations observed across different districts and neighborhoods. While some areas are experiencing a baby boom, others are facing challenges related to declining birth rates, raising important questions for city planners and policymakers moving forward.