A comprehensive new study by the German Center for Integration and Migration Research has found that people from racial and ethnic minorities in Germany face significant discrimination in the housing market. The research shows that Black and Muslim individuals are much more likely to be excluded from apartment viewings and are often forced to live in poorer quality, more expensive, and more precarious housing situations than their non-racialized counterparts.

Applicants with German-sounding names have a higher chance of being invited to viewings, while those with names common in the Middle East, Turkey, or Africa face more rejections, despite having similar qualifications. Many minority renters report being asked for additional guarantees or facing unfair treatment from landlords and neighbors, leading to increased financial and emotional stress.

The study also highlights that minority groups are more likely to live in smaller, more crowded homes with higher exposure to environmental pollution. Advocacy groups and researchers are calling for stronger anti-discrimination laws and more affordable social housing to address these systemic issues.