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Bonn increases taxes: second homes and overnight stays more expensive!
The city of Bonn will increase the accommodation and second home tax in 2025. Details about the changes and their effects.
Bonn increases taxes: second homes and overnight stays more expensive!
There are currently changes in tax law in Bonn that affect both hotel operators and second home owners. At a meeting in March 2025, the Bonn city council decided to increase the accommodation tax and the second home tax. These developments will be officially announced after the meeting on Thursday evening, with the majority of this decision coming against the votes of the CDU, BBB and FDP. Brigitta Poppe-Reiners from Rheingrün abstained from voting.
The accommodation tax, which has been levied in Bonn since July 1, 2015, will be increased from 6% to 7% of the accommodation amount, which already includes sales tax, from January 1, 2024. This tax applies to everyone who stays for a fee in an accommodation facility in Bonn, including hotels, inns and holiday apartments. The income flows directly into the city's public services.
Details on second home tax
The tax on second homes will also be raised significantly: the rate will rise from 13% to 15% of the annual net rent. This tax is important for the city of Bonn because it helps finance public projects and infrastructure measures. In many German cities that levy similarly high taxes, the municipal average for second home taxes is between 10% and 15%, although the Bonn regulation of 15% is on the higher side compared to the market.
The second home tax is often seen as an instrument to cover municipal costs. This tax becomes even more important, especially in times when there is a housing shortage in many cities. However, exceptions apply for some groups, such as students or commuters, in order to avoid an unfair financial burden. Applications for exemptions must be submitted by January 31 of the following year, which for many represents a little light at the end of the tunnel.
The discussion about tax adjustments also includes reform proposals that could possibly be implemented in 2024. This affects both the tax rates and an improved information structure for taxpayers. While some cities such as Hamburg or Berlin are already pursuing different approaches and sometimes demanding significantly higher taxes, Bonn is now sticking with the new rates, which will apply from next year.
The hopefully positive effects of these tax increases on the city's finances have yet to be seen, but one thing is certain: Bonn is entering the coming years with a clear commitment to municipal projects. Citizens will be eagerly watching to see how these changes will impact the city and its infrastructure.