In 2025, 59 % of people aged 16 to 74 in Germany used social media for private purposes, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). That represents a noticeable jump from 47 % in 2021, when less than half the population was active on social media platforms. Active use includes creating an account, publishing posts, and interacting with other users; the figure does not count messenger‑service usage.
The likelihood of active social‑media use decreases with age. Among the 16‑ to 24‑year‑olds, 85 % were active in 2025, followed by 81 % of the 25‑ to 34‑year‑olds and 72 % of the 35‑ to 44‑year‑olds. The share falls sharply in older age groups, with only 25 % of 65‑ to 74‑year‑olds using social media.
All age brackets saw higher participation than in 2021, with the largest gains among seniors. The 65‑ to 74‑year‑old group rose from 15 % in 2021 to 25 % in 2025. The 55‑ to 64‑year‑olds increased from 29 % to 42 %, while the already high 16‑ to 24‑year‑olds grew from 78 % to 85 %.
Germany’s 59 % overall rate is one of the lowest in the European Union. Only Italy reports a smaller share (56 %). Across the EU, 67 % of people aged 16 to 74 are active on social media, with each age group exceeding German figures. In the EU, the most widespread social‑media use occurs in Denmark (90 %), Cyprus (87 %), and Malta (82 %).
