Microcensus 2026: 130,000 citizens will be surveyed!

Microcensus 2026: 130,000 citizens will be surveyed!

The 2026 microcensus begins on January 16, 2026, an important survey to record the economic and social situation of the population in Bavaria and all of Germany. Around 130,000 people are surveyed every year, which corresponds to around one percent of the German population. The survey is carried out both by telephone interview and online, with the participation of the respondents providing an essential basis for fact-based political decisions. According to [gemeinde-aufhausen.de](https://www.gemeinde-aufhausen.de/aktuelles/aktuelle-melden/mikrozensus-2026-startet-130-000-buergerinnen-und-buerger- Werden-befragt/), the household survey aims to collect comprehensive data that serves as the most important source of information in politics and science.

The respondents are selected randomly from anonymized buildings and households. This means that those affected are selected from around 65,000 households in Bavaria. Each household contacted will receive written notifications with information about the survey. According to [infranken.de](https://www.infranken.de/ratgeber/karriere-geld/130000-menschen-zufaellig-mikrozensus-2026-wer-ausgewaehlt-wird-muss-auf-200-fragen- Answeren-art-6309750) there are up to 200 questions to be answered, spread over up to 130 pages. The subject areas include household and family, work and education as well as housing and health.

Data protection and obligation to participate

The requirement to participate is both supported and criticized by experts. On the one hand, the JuraForum emphasizes that this obligation ensures statistical representativeness. On the other hand, citizens express concerns about the costs and data protection. However, the Lower Saxony State Office for Statistics emphasizes that the entire survey is carried out anonymously and does not allow any conclusions to be drawn about individuals.

The surveys will be carried out over the course of 2026 and will be led by around 130 trained survey officers. The various survey methods include an online form, telephone interviews, paper questionnaires and, in exceptional cases, on-site surveys. Damage caused by non-compliance with the obligation to participate can take the form of reminders and warnings as well as a fine of up to 250 euros.

Impact of the results

The data collected plays a crucial role in policy analysis and planning. They are incorporated into reports on poverty and wealth and support the federal government in preparing the children and youth report. EU funding programs are also influenced by these findings. The microcensus, conducted annually since 1957, provides detailed information that goes beyond the data recorded in the census. The difference between the two surveys is that the microcensus is carried out annually and allows for a more comprehensive look at social and economic conditions.

In summary, the 2026 Microcensus is of great importance for both citizens and policymakers. The information obtained not only contributes to the analysis of the current social situation, but also shapes the future through well-founded political decisions. Further details on the methodologies and quality of the survey can be found on the website of destatis.de.