How is life in the former East Germany?

Factual Questions
1

I know that the GDR was dissolved in 1990 but I’m curious as to what life is like there now. Is it on par with “West Germany”?

My google-fu is failing me.

2

Here’s a recent thread on the subject:

http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?t=802303

3

A friend of mine just visited Berlin a few weeks ago and described the former “East Germany” as a teenager who hasn’t found their way yet. She also described it as still “very gray”.