Economic Development in Lingen (Ems): Focus on Job Fair, Rental Price Index, and Investor Lots in April 2026

Economic Development in Lingen (Ems): Highlights from April 2026

The city of Lingen (Ems) is actively committed to economic development and the provision of affordable housing. In April 2026, several relevant topics were at the center of the Economic and Real Estate Committee's agenda. Particularly noteworthy were the preparations for the Emsland 2026 job fair, the creation of the new rental price index, and the marketing of investor lots for affordable housing.

Emsland 2026 Job Fair: Impulse for the Labor Market and Talent Acquisition

The Emsland 2026 Job Fair, planned for May 9 and 10, 2026 at the Emslandhalle in Lingen (Ems), is a central element of regional talent acquisition. With an exhibition area of approximately 2,600 m² and a comprehensive supporting program, the fair is designed as an interdisciplinary career event for vocational training, studies, career entry, and job seekers.

The Economic Promotion Office of Lingen (Ems) will be represented at a joint stand, and three local companies – including Elektro Stüwe GmbH and Bärenstark Everyday and Care Support – will have the opportunity to present themselves at favorable conditions. The third participating partner is still in coordination.

The job fair is not only a forum for employers but also a platform for potential employees of all age and qualification levels. Admission is free, increasing accessibility for all target groups.

2026 Rental Price Index: Transparent Prices for Affordable Housing Supply

The rental price index for Lingen (Ems) for 2026 has been updated and will come into effect on April 1, 2026. It was created in accordance with the Rental Price Index Reform Act and the Rental Price Index Ordinance and scientifically processed by the office of the expert committee of the State Office for Geoinformation and Land Surveying in Lower Saxony (LGLN). Approximately 1,300 data records were used for its creation.

The average net cold rent is 585 €, with the median value at 550 €. The rent price development shows that newer buildings have significantly higher rent values: For a 72 m² apartment built in 2012, the rent costs increased from 7.65 €/m² (2023) to 8.35 €/m² (2026) – an increase of 9%. Older buildings, in contrast, benefit from more moderate increases.

In the discussions, it was emphasized that there will be no rent capping in the sense of a rent control mechanism. Instead, the city is focusing on transparency and quality improvement in the housing market. In particular, housing for families and larger living spaces should be expanded.

Investor Lots: Impulse for Affordable Housing

Another central topic was the marketing of investor lots for affordable housing. The tender runs until April 22, 2026. So far, there have been no direct applications, but numerous inquiries and positive discussions. The so-called "Construction Turbo" – a tool for accelerating construction processes – is already in use, although it is not yet widely adopted.

The city is thus relying on a cooperative partnership with investors to meet the demand for affordable housing. In particular, families with children and households with lower incomes are expected to benefit from this development.

Outlook: How to Proceed with Economy and Housing in Lingen?

The discussions and decisions of the Economic and Real Estate Committee show that Lingen (Ems) is actively working on the future viability of its city. The Emsland 2026 Job Fair will send an important signal for the labor market in the coming weeks. The updated rental price index provides transparency and orientation for tenants and landlords. At the same time, the city is setting a course for the construction of affordable housing through the marketing of investor lots.

The challenges remain significant: The housing market is still tense, and the adjustment to new economic realities requires continuous efforts. Nevertheless, Lingen (Ems) is on a good path to maintaining the balance between economic development and social responsibility.