Finding Germany’s best public health insurance can be overwhelming, especially with the wide range of providers and contribution rates changing all the time.
But, whether you’re an expat, a family, or simply looking for the most cost-effective option, choosing the right provider can make all the difference.
Unlike private insurance, public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung or GKV) is standardized by law, meaning core services remain the same across all providers.
However, contribution rates, customer service, bonus programs, and additional benefits can vary.
To help you navigate your options, we’ve analyzed four of the best public health insurance providers in Germany for 2025.
We’ll break down their strengths, contribution rates, customer satisfaction, and unique perks to help you make an informed decision.
And, if you’re new to Germany, check out our guide to learn how the German public healthcare system works.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on our independent analysis, but the “best” public health insurance for you depends on your individual needs. We recommend speaking with an insurance broker who can help you find a plan tailored to your situation.
Our rankings are determined using a specific methodology, which we encourage you to review to ensure it aligns with your priorities.
Insurance options, pricing, and reviews may change over time. The information in this article was last updated on March 10, 2025.
Alright, let’s jump right in.
Our favorite public health insurance companies
| Provider | Recommended for | Total contribution rate | Trustpilot rating |
| Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) | English speakers | 17.05% | 3.9 out of 5 |
| DAK-Gesundheit | Bonus program | 17.4% | 2.6 out of 5 |
| BARMER | Families | 17.89% | 2.7 out of 5 |
| BKK Firmus | Affordability | 16.44% | 4.1 out of 5 |
Techniker Krankenkasse (TK): Recommended for English speakers
If you’re an English-speaking expat or newcomer in Germany, Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) is one of the best public health insurance options available in 2025.
With nearly 11.8 million insured members, TK is the largest statutory insurance fund in Germany and continues to grow, averaging a 2.38% yearly increase since 2015.
How much does TK cost?
TK’s specific contribution rate for 2025 is 2.45%, bringing the total contribution to 17.05%. This marks a significant increase from previous years, with a 0.8% jump in 2025 alone—the largest in their history.
To put this in perspective, if you’re 30 years old, single and employed, you’ll pay:
- €219 per month if earning €24,000 per year
- €602 per month if earning €73,800 or more
Note: These figures exclude the employer’s contribution and reflect only your personal cost in this example. Use our public health insurance cost calculator for more details.
Why TK stands out for English speakers
One of TK’s biggest advantages is its English-language support.
They offer an English app, website and hotline (+49 40 – 46 06 62 53 00), making it easy to get assistance with any questions or paperwork.
Its app offers key features like:
- Chat support with agents
- Submitting documents & personal updates
- Access to the TK Bonus Program (more on this below)
- TK-Fit Integration, allowing you to sync Apple Health or many other fitness trackers to earn rewards
TK bonus program: Up to €400 per year
TK offers an extensive rewards program where you can earn up to €400 per year for completing health-related activities.
Rewards can be used for:
- Acupuncture
- Sports equipment & courses
- Dental treatments (e.g., crowns)
- And much more — check out the full details here.
Trustpilot rating
TK is rated 3.9 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on 4,500+ reviews. 56% gave 5 stars, while 29% gave them 1 star.
While the majority of members seem satisfied, some complaints exist, which is common for any large insurer.
Our verdict on TK
TK is a top contender if you’re looking for a reliable, English-friendly public health insurance provider in Germany.
With its strong digital services, rewards program, and English-speaking support, it’s an especially great choice for expats and first-time German residents.
However, the recent price increase is something to keep in mind.
DAK-Gesundheit: Best bonus program
If you’re looking for the most rewarding bonus program, DAK-Gesundheit might be your best public health insurance provider in 2025.
While its membership has been declining by 1.14% per year since 2015 (now at 5.5 million insured members), it offers strong incentives for policyholders who prioritize health-conscious living.
How much does DAK cost?
DAK’s 2025 contribution rate is 2.8%, bringing the total to 17.4%—one of the highest among public insurers.
However, DAK has kept its contribution increase minimal over the years, rising only 0.1% in 2025 (from 1.7% to 1.8%).
If you’re 30 years old, single and employeed, you can expect to pay around:
- €222 per month if earning €24,000 per year
- €612 per month if earning €73,800 or more
Note: These figures exclude the employer’s contribution and reflect only your personal cost in this example. Use our public health insurance cost calculator for more details.
Why DAK’s bonus program stands out
The biggest reason to consider DAK is its industry-leading bonus program.
It has even been rated “the best bonus program of all public health insurance companies” by Focus Magazine.
DAK rewards members for living a healthy lifestyle through a points-based system, where:
- 1 point = €1 in cash rewards
- 1 point = €1.20 in subsidies for health services
These subsidies can be used for:
- Fitness trackers
- New running shoes
- Glasses
- Osteopathy treatments
- And much more… See all the details here.
In total, you can earn up to €500 per year—one of the highest bonuses among public health insurers.
Trustpilot rating
DAK has a rating of 2.6 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on 1,500 reviews:
- 25% gave 5 stars
- 68% gave 1 star
Our verdict on DAK
If you actively take care of your health and want to maximize rewards, DAK’s bonus program is one of the best. However, its high contribution rate and lower customer satisfaction may be dealbreakers for some.
BARMER: Recommended for families
As Germany’s second-largest public health insurance provider, BARMER has maintained a stable membership base, with 8.6 million insured members in 2024, only slightly up from 8.55 million in 2015.
While it has seen the highest contribution rate increase among major insurers, it remains a strong choice—particularly for families.
How much does BARMER cost?
BARMER’s 2025 specific contribution rate is 3.29%, bringing the total contribution to 17.89%—the highest in this review. Since 2015, its rate has increased by 1.1% (from 2.19%).
If you’re 30 years old, single, and employed, the cost might look like this:
- €227 per month if earning €24,000 per year
- €625 per month if earning €73,800 or more
Note: These figures exclude the employer’s contribution and reflect only your personal cost in this example. Use our public health insurance cost calculator for more details.
Why BARMER stands out for families
BARMER is known for its family-focused health initiatives, offering special programs for children, parents, and mothers.
Our favorites are:
- “I Can Cook!” & “Family Kitchen” – A program teaching kids (and the latter, parents) how to cook healthy meals and recognize nutritious ingredients.
- Papilio – A social-emotional development program for 3 to 6 year olds, aimed at reducing behavioral problems and strengthening emotional skills.
- GLÜCKSMAMA – An 8-week online course to help mothers strengthen their core and pelvic floor. BARMER members also get 12 months of free access to all courses and the GLÜCKSMAMA media library.
Additionally, BARMER is one of the most physically accessible insurers, with 360 branches in Germany, making in-person consultations easy.
Trustpilot rating
BARMER has a 2.7 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, based on 2,000 reviews, with 39% of reviews being 5 stars, and 51% 1 star.
This suggests mixed customer satisfaction, though its strong family-oriented programs may make it worthwhile for parents.
Our verdict on BARMER
BARMER is a solid option if you’re looking for public health insurance with family benefits. While its higher contribution rate and mixed customer feedback may be drawbacks, its family health programs, in-person branch access, and wellness incentives make it an excellent choice for those with children.
BKK Firmus: Recommended for affordability
If your priority is affordable public health insurance, BKK Firmus is a top choice in 2025.
With high growth—expanding from 86,188 members in 2015 to 331,329 by the end of 2024 (16.14% annual increase)—it has become a strong contender among Germany’s best public health insurance providers.
How much does BKK Firmus cost?
BKK Firmus has the lowest contribution rate among all insurers in this review.
Their specific contribution rate is just 1.84%, bringing the total to 16.44%.
While this is almost double their 2024 rate of 0.90%, they remain the cheapest option in 2025.
So, let’s say you’re 30 years old, single, and employed, your cost would likely be:
- €212 per month if earning €24,000 per year
- €585 per month if earning €73,800 or more
Note: These figures exclude the employer’s contribution and reflect only your personal cost in this example. Use our public health insurance cost calculator for more details.
BKK Firmus is particularly interesting for those close to the private health insurance income threshold (€73,800 per year). However, if you earn above this limit, you may want to consider private insurance, as it is often cheaper than public options.
One of the reasons BKK Firmus is so affordable is because their in-person service is very limited, with physical offices only available in:
- Bremen
- Osnabrück
- Lengerich
- Melle
- Weißenborn
- Dissen
Trustpilot rating
BKK Firmus has an impressive Trustpilot rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, based on 2,822 reviews:
- 78% gave 5 stars
- Only 14% gave 1 star
This makes it one of the best-rated public health insurers in this review alongside TK.
Our verdict on BKK Firmus
If you want the lowest-cost public health insurance in Germany, BKK Firmus is the choice we recommend you make.
It’s desirable for those near or above the private insurance threshold but wish to remain in the public system.
However, its limited physical locations, lack of English support and modest bonus program may be drawbacks for some.
Methodology
To determine the best public health insurance companies in Germany for 2025, we aimed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation using the following method:
- Selection of providers
We started by identifying the top public health insurers in Germany based on market size, industry reputation, and relevance for different customer segments (e.g., expats, families, cost-conscious individuals). - Contribution rate analysis
Public health insurance rates fluctuate yearly, so we analyzed the 2025 contribution rates for each provider, including both the standard rate and any additional contribution percentages. - Customer satisfaction and reviews
We examined customer feedback on Trustpilot to gauge overall satisfaction. While online reviews can be biased, they provide useful insights into customer service, claim processing, and general experience. - Added benefits and services
Since core public health insurance services are standardized in Germany, we focused on differentiating factors such as:- English-language support (especially for expats)
- Digital tools (e.g., mobile app availability)
- Bonus programs (e.g., fitness incentives)
- Family and maternity support programs
- Accessibility and service quality
- To assess customer service, we analyzed the availability of English-speaking support and the number of physical service locations across Germany. We also considered digital accessibility, including mobile app functionality and online customer portals.
This evaluation was last updated on March 10, 2025, and reflects the most recent contribution rates and customer feedback. However, since policies and pricing may change, we recommend verifying details with each insurer before deciding.
Conclusion
Choosing the right public health insurance provider in Germany depends on your needs and priorities.
Here’s a quick recap:
- If you’re an English-speaking expat, Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) is a top choice due to its strong digital services and English-language support.
- For those who prioritize bonus rewards, DAK-Gesundheit offers one of the most attractive incentive programs, though it has a higher contribution rate.
- Families may find BARMER to be the best option due to its extensive health programs tailored for parents and children.
- If keeping costs low is your priority, BKK Firmus provides the most affordable public health insurance rate in 2025.
Regardless of your choice, all public health insurers in Germany provide comprehensive medical coverage. We recommend speaking with an insurance broker to find the best plan for your personal circumstances.
Still unsure about which provider fits your needs? Contact our experts or read our public health insurance guide for more details.
