Higher Rental Rates Northward, Surpassing National Average - Enhanced Retirement Benefits in the Northern Regions Exceed National Average
In the federal state of Schleswig-Holstein, women's pensions are just above the western German value of 1,453 euros, while men's pensions fall below the comparative value of 1,844 euros. This trend, along with the gender disparities in pension amounts, has been a point of contention in the region.
Despite contributing to one of Europe's strongest economies for decades, millions of pensioners in Germany, including those in Schleswig-Holstein, are grappling with low pensions. A dignified life in old age is becoming increasingly unattainable for many, as the average pension in Germany (1,668 euros) lags behind the average pension in Schleswig-Holstein (1,704 euros).
The highest average pension can be found in Hamburg at 1,787 euros, followed by Schleswig-Holstein. However, it's worth noting that men in Schleswig-Holstein receive an average pension of 1,800 euros per month, significantly more than women who receive 1,455 euros. This gender disparity is a nationwide issue in Germany, with women's pensions on average around 30–40% lower than men's due to systemic factors such as career breaks for childrearing, part-time work, and lower average wages.
Regional variations in pension levels exist in Germany due to differences in wages, employment patterns, and demographic trends. Typically, northern states like Schleswig-Holstein have pension levels close to but sometimes slightly below the national average due to economic structure differences, such as fewer high-paying industrial jobs compared to southern states like Bavaria.
The Bundesbank Monthly Report discusses the importance of adjusting retirement age to rising life expectancy and addressing the financial sustainability of pensions, which impacts all regions, including Schleswig-Holstein. However, the report does not provide gender-disaggregated pension amounts.
Pensioners in Schleswig-Holstein with at least 45 years of insurance receive an average pension slightly higher than the federal average of 1,704 euros per month. Yet, when compared to western German federal states, Schleswig-Holstein's average pension falls below the average of 1,729 euros per month. The lowest average pension can be found in Thuringia at 1,491 euros.
In conclusion, Schleswig-Holstein's average pension is likely near the federal average but may lag slightly due to regional economic factors. The gender disparity in pension amounts persists, with men receiving higher average pensions than women, reflecting nationwide gender disparities in pension entitlements and earnings history. For precise figures and detailed comparisons, official statistics from the German pension insurance or regional statistical offices would provide valuable insights.
In an effort to improve the financial security of pensioners, the implementation of a community policy focused on vocational training could be beneficial in Schleswig-Holstein, enabling retired individuals to supplement their pensions with income from part-time work in the business sector, thereby addressing the issue of inadequate personal-finance in old age. Furthermore, gender-disaggregated data on vocational training opportunities and their impact on pension amounts could help bridge the gap in pension entitlements for women, thus promoting equality in personal-finance matters within the region.
