German companies are increasingly helping their employees with housing. According to a new study by the German Institute for Economic Research (IW), 9% of companies provide housing for their employees, either directly or through subsidiaries. This helps to alleviate pressure on the strained housing rental market. More than 21% of companies assist their employees in finding housing, providing both organizational and financial support. Over half of the participating companies reported positive effects on attracting and retaining skilled workers. While using existing apartments on the market can lead to displacement, building new housing units, especially within company premises, increases the housing supply. Benefits were also seen for interns and students in the dual education system, albeit to a lesser extent. The study, conducted from mid-July to the end of August 2025, included 826 companies from various sectors, excluding the public sector. Nevertheless, direct offers, such as company housing, remain limited and are not expected to become widespread. Amid a shortage of skilled labor and rental market tensions, many companies in Germany are supporting their employees with housing. Clear regulations, faster licensing procedures, and close cooperation between companies and the real estate sector are crucial factors in this context.
