Wohngeld Amount & Calculation – How Much Can I Get?

The amount of Wohngeld is calculated individually and depends on three main factors: the number of household members, total income and eligible rent. The Wohngeld-Plus Act significantly increased amounts from 2023 – by an average of around 190 euros per month.

How Is Wohngeld Calculated?

Wohngeld is calculated according to a legally defined formula (§ 19 WoGG). In simple terms: Wohngeld results from the difference between the eligible rent and a portion of the household income.

The eligible rent is based on the local rent level maximum amounts. In Cologne (Mietstufe V), higher maximum amounts apply than in cheaper cities. This means: a household in Cologne can receive more Wohngeld at the same income than a comparable household in a city with a lower rent level.

The Five Calculation Factors

Number of Household Members: The more people, the higher the maximum eligible rent and the higher the potential Wohngeld.
Total Income: The annual income of all household members minus allowances, income-related expenses and social insurance contributions.
Eligible Rent: The actual net cold rent plus cold service charges – capped by the maximum amounts of Mietstufe V.
Rent Level of the City: Cologne is Mietstufe V (out of VI). The higher the rent level, the higher the recognised maximum rent amounts.
Wohngeld-Plus Components: The climate component and heating cost component increase Wohngeld additionally. They are granted independently of the Wohngeld formula.

Rent Level in Cologne: Level V

Cologne is classified as Mietstufe V – the second highest of six rent levels in Germany. This classification reflects the city's high rent level and leads to correspondingly higher Wohngeld maximum amounts.

Important to Know

Mietstufe V applies throughout Cologne – regardless of the city district. There are no different rent levels within Cologne.

Calculation Examples for Cologne

The following examples show typical scenarios for Cologne. These are estimates for orientation – the exact calculation is carried out by the Wohngeldstelle.

Household	Monthly Income (approx.)	Net Cold Rent (approx.)	Wohngeld (approx./month)
1 person (pensioner)	€1,100	€550	~€220
Single parent, 1 child	€1,800	€750	~€310
Family, 2 children	€2,800	€950	~€250

These examples are for orientation only. The actual amount of Wohngeld may differ. A binding calculation is carried out by the Wohngeldstelle.

Wohngeld Increase – Regular Adjustment

Wohngeld is automatically adjusted every two years to reflect changes in rents and incomes. The next scheduled adjustment is planned for 2025. In addition, legislative reforms such as Wohngeld-Plus can lead to unscheduled increases.