Price increase at the Germany ticket: shock for families in Germany!

The use of the Germany ticket in Germany has increased significantly in recent months. According to current figures, 13.1 million people have now used the ticket. From January 1, 2025, the price of the Germany ticket will increase to 58 euros per month, which represents an increase of 9 euros compared to the previous year. However, this price increase raises questions, especially for families, whether the use of bus and train is still economical compared to the family car.

The Germany ticket was introduced in May 2023 and enjoyed immediate popularity, since 9 million tickets were already sold by October 2024. Traffic policy pursues the goal of gaining more people for public transport, but the upcoming price increase could prevent the target group of families from switching to public transport. Greenpeace analyzed the costs of the Germany ticket for various household types and came to worrying results.

families and the Germany ticket

According to Greenpeace's calculations, the Germany ticket for families from 2025 is unattractive. An example illustrates this: a family with two children who previously traveled with a 49-euro ticket would save 345 euros annually if they switch to public transport. However, this no longer pays off with the new price of 58 euros. For families with a car that drive less, the expenses of 369 euros increase compared to the exclusive use of the car.

Another analysis shows that switching for singles to public transport is still advantageous. A single that drives 5,000 kilometers by car could save 282 euros annually, even if the price of the Germany ticket is increased to 58 euros. Greenpeace therefore calls for adaptation of the pricing model by paying 29 euros and driving children and young people free of charge. This could save families without a car annually up to 2,000 euros.

The increasing cost of living contributes to the problem, since many families are already under financial pressure. Traffic researcher Prof. Andreas Knie supports the demand for the 29-euro ticket and also emphasizes the need to improve the offer in rural regions. Uniform rules for the Germany ticket all over Germany are also necessary to avoid complications.

political challenges

The political debate about the future of the Germany ticket is still shaped by the current challenges. The Greens and the SPD failed in the Bundestag due to long -term financing of the Germany ticket and a coincidence for children. Without unification of the new federal government, not only worse offers in public transport, but also a downward spiral in the form of subscription announcements and other price increases.

It remains to be seen how the new federal government will expand public transport and make the Germany ticket more attractive for future users. The success of the Germany ticket depends heavily on the price, and if the family car cannot be completely abandoned, the ticket will no longer be worthwhile for many households.