Rent Categories in Berlin
Germany is divided into six Mietstufen (I to VI). The Mietstufe reflects the regional rent level and influences the amount of Wohngeld. Berlin is one of the most expensive regions and is uniformly assigned to Mietstufe IV.
Berlin: Mietstufe IV
Since the Wohngeld-Plus reform (1 January 2023), all of Berlin has been uniformly assigned to Mietstufe IV. This classification applies to all twelve districts. Uniform rent ceilings therefore apply to all households in Berlin when calculating Wohngeld.
Mietstufe IV — All Berlin Districts
Mitte, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, Pankow, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, Spandau, Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Tempelhof-Schöneberg, Neukölln, Treptow-Köpenick, Marzahn-Hellersdorf, Lichtenberg, Reinickendorf
What Did the Wohngeld-Plus Reform Change?
Before the reform, Berlin was split in two: western districts were assigned to Mietstufe IV, eastern districts to Mietstufe III. With the Wohngeld-Plus Act, the entire city was uniformly classified into Mietstufe IV as of 1 January 2023. For formerly eastern districts, this means higher rent ceilings and therefore a higher possible Wohngeld.
How is the Rent Category Considered?
The rent category is factored into the Wohngeld calculation. The higher the rent category, the higher the recognized rent ceiling and thus the possible Wohngeld. The actual rent is considered up to a maximum amount specified in the Wohngeld table.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mietstufe in Berlin
Which Mietstufe does Berlin have?
Berlin has been uniformly assigned to Mietstufe IV since 1 January 2023. This classification applies to all twelve districts and forms the basis for the rent ceilings in the Wohngeld table.
Wohngeld Table 2026 →Why was Berlin classified into Mietstufe IV?
With the Wohngeld-Plus reform, the Mietstufen were redefined nationwide. Due to Berlin's high rent level, the entire city was assigned to Mietstufe IV. Previously, eastern districts were assigned to the lower Mietstufe III.
Wohngeld-Plus Reform →What does Mietstufe IV mean for my Wohngeld?
The higher the Mietstufe, the higher the rent ceiling up to which your rent is taken into account for Wohngeld. In Mietstufe IV, you can therefore receive more Wohngeld with the same income than in lower Mietstufen.
Do I have to state the Mietstufe in the Wohngeld application?
No, the Mietstufe is automatically taken into account by the Wohngeld office. You do not have to determine it yourself in the application. The Wohngeld office assesses your entitlement on the basis of Mietstufe IV, which applies to Berlin.
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