Ethnic Segregation in German Cities: A multidimensional comparison accounting for measurement problems
Final Report Abstract
This research project systematically examined the patterns and extent of ethnic segregation in German cities at different spatial scales for the first time. Segregation—the unequal distribution of people with and without a migration background across different neighborhoods—is considered a key factor for integration opportunities and social participation. Until now, reliable and comparable data and methods for measuring segregation across cities and at the neighborhood level were lacking. The project therefore employed an innovative multiscalar approach, allowing segregation to be analyzed and compared across various spatial contexts, from small neighborhoods to entire city districts. The study was based on the 2011 German Census and analyzed 34 major cities selected by population size, migration share, and unemployment rate. The results show that the degree of segregation in Germany varies widely and is less dependent on city size than on historical, economic, and structural factors. In economically strong cities such as Munich or Frankfurt, segregation is low, whereas it is particularly high in East German cities and the Ruhr area— often independent of the proportion of migrants. The study thus refutes the common assumption that larger cities are necessarily more segregated. The findings highlight that regional differences, urban history, and the housing market are decisive for the emergence and extent of segregation. This is especially evident in East German cities, where historical housing structures and the distribution of refugees result in high segregation levels. The project provides, for the first time, an empirically grounded typology of German cities, making it clear where targeted measures to promote integration and social mixing are most needed. This project makes an contribution to the advancement of segregation research. The applied methodology can also be used for enhanced analyses, such as analyzing trends over time or exploring the links between social and ethnic segregation. The insights are relevant for urban planning, policymakers, and society at large, as they help to better identify and address inequalities in opportunities.
