Bielefeld as an investment location for real estate
340k city with a resilient tenant base and clear sub-area profiles
Bielefeld had a population of 343,801 as of 31.12.2024 based on the population register and officially stands at 331,605 according to the state update - the methodologically explainable difference shows a stable order of magnitude in the upper middle class with a broad demand base across all districts. Sub-areas with large populations such as Mitte (80.278), Heepen (48.683), Stieghorst (33.352) and Brackwede (41.410) secure basic demand across micro-locations from single to family households - relevant for classic MFH stock, floor plans suitable for shared flats and mixed-use properties. The urban density of 1.281 inhabitants/km² underlines the viability of locations close to the city center and public transport, while the official 2024 figure of 331.605 provides a conservative planning basis for business cases.
StadtBahn expansion as a structural demand and exit lever
Bielefeld is strategically expanding the StadtBahn: the extension of Line 1 towards Sennestadt (almost 9 km) is to complete the design planning by Q2/2025, with submission of the planning approval documents from the end of 2025; the project addresses around 85,000 residents in Sennestadt, Senne and Brackwede, reduces travel times and is subsidized by up to 95% - a clear location and value driver along the route. In parallel, the feasibility study for StadtBahn extensions to the north of Bielefeld (Jöllenbeck/Vilsendorf/Brake West), including connections to lines 3/4, has been running since spring 2025 - with public participation planned for 2025 as the next milestone. Current network plans (as of June 2025) confirm the robust basic development in the daytime network and form the basis for core profiles in micro-locations close to railroad stations/corridors with low fluctuation and high visibility.
ESG framework and investment thesis: Core to value-add with planning security
The city is pursuing ambitious climate targets with the "Climate Neutral 2030/2035" strategy, including an action plan for the administration and the "City Group" - a tailwind for energy modernization, efficient heating and PV retrofitting, which increases the exit capability of portfolios after ESG upgrades. On the investment side, there are three possible paths: Core in refurbished properties in Mitte, Brackwede and Heepen that are close to public transport/city, supported by the 340k tenant base and the secure StadtBahn network. Value-add in 60s/70s properties in Stieghorst, Senne and Sennestadt via insulation/window/heating technology and repositioning of first floors along future routes of the Line 1 extension and the investigated northern branches. For conservative calculations, the official 331.605 reference figure is recommended as a base, while the 343.801 reference figure enables additional upside scenarios for demand and absorption in strong sub-areas.
Standard land values for Bielefeld
The standard land values for Bielefeld can be found in the standard land values for North Rhine-Westphalia here.