German Study Shows Rising Occupational Mobility Across All Wage Levels

A study released by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) in Nuremberg finds that occupational mobility in Germany has increased markedly between 2013 and 2024. The share of workers who changed jobs within a year rose by 13 percentage points overall, with men experiencing a 16‑point increase and women a 10‑point rise. Mobility grew across all wage brackets, but was strongest among low‑wage men and middle‑wage women. The report notes the COVID‑19 pandemic temporarily slowed the trend, but the overall demand for labour in a shifting economy continues to drive job switches as workers seek better pay and prospects. IAB director Bernd Fitzenberger and researcher Mara Buhmann emphasize that higher mobility can support the transformation of the German economy.