1. Film Location: Potsdam is home to the Babelsberg Film Studio, one of the oldest film studios in the world. Many famous films, including "The Bourne Spy" and "Valkyrie," were shot here, making it a significant location in the film industry. 2. Historical Gardens: The city boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the magnificent Sanssouci Park, which features stunning gardens, palaces, and historical architecture, often overlooked by visitors who focus solely on the main attractions. 3. Cultural Festivals: Potsdam hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Potsdam Film Festival and the Potsdam Music Festival, which showcase local talents and international artists, providing a vibrant cultural scene that is often missed by tourists.
Potsdam, located near Berlin, is experiencing a dynamic housing market. As of 2025, the city's real estate prices have risen by 2.20% compared to the previous year, indicating steady growth. The rental market is particularly active, with asking rents climbing by about 15.10% year-over-year. The total number of housing units in Potsdam is approximately 12,300, based on the annual housing demand forecast until 2020. The city has a higher proportion of renters compared to owners, with 63.9% of households renting and 36.1% owning their homes. Recent data shows that the median rent price in Potsdam is around €15.40 per square meter for existing properties. For purchasing apartments, the median price is approximately €4,670 per square meter for existing properties and €7,240 per square meter for new constructions. Public, social, and cooperative housing play significant roles in Potsdam's housing market, although specific figures are not readily available. These housing options are crucial in providing affordable living spaces, especially given the city's rising property values and rents. Potsdam's housing market is characterized by strong demand, rising prices, and a preference for renting over owning. The city's proximity to Berlin, its historical significance, and its status as a science center contribute to its attractiveness for both residents and investors.
The city administration of Potsdam, Germany, is actively addressing housing challenges through various initiatives. The city aims to create affordable and sustainable housing options for its growing population, including students, refugees, and low-income residents. One key program is the special building program commissioned by the Potsdam administration to ProPotsdam, a public group of companies. This program aims to create around 400 new apartments between 2023 and 2025, with a focus on social housing for vulnerable populations, including refugees. The city serves as a general tenant, ensuring affordable rents for at least 30 years. The Staudenhof Project for Housing and Communication is another initiative centered on accommodating refugees and integrating them into society. It provides separate flats and community spaces to support better integration and living standards. Potsdam is also investing in sustainable development through smart growth principles. The city received funding from the Climate Smart Communities Grant program to complete actions such as developing a comprehensive plan with sustainability elements and implementing complete streets policies. Additionally, the city is rethinking street spaces to achieve equitable use through fewer cars and more spaces for all, which indirectly impacts housing by improving the overall urban environment. These efforts demonstrate Potsdam's commitment to creating more affordable and sustainable housing while addressing the needs of diverse populations.