Kreuzberg, since 2001 part of the combined Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg borough located south of Mitte, is one of the best-known areas of Berlin. Kreuzberg consists of two different parts, the south-eastern SO 36 and the south-west SW 61. These were the last two digits of the postal codes for the two areas in West Berlin. Kreuzberg has emerged from its history as one of the poorest quarters in Berlin in the late 1970s, where it was an isolated section of West Berlin to one of Berlin's cultural centers in the middle of the reunified city . The borough is known for its large large number of immigrants, many of whom are of Turkish ancestry. As of 2006 31.6% of Kreuzberg's inhabitants did not have German citizenship .

While Kreuzberg thrives on its diverse cultures and is still an attractive area for the many, the district is also characterized by high levels of unemployment and income some of the lowest average incomes in Berlin.