Cost of Living in Austria

Expats moving to Austria will find the high cost of living is a small price to pay for the excellent quality of life their move will afford them. Vienna, in particular, offers expats a superb quality of life but comes at an especially high cost. Vienna ranked 21st out 227 cities in Mercer's cost of living survey for 2022. While the city remains less expensive than other major European cities such as Zurich, Copenhagen and London, the cost of living in Vienna is well above that of places like Brussels and Berlin.

That said, the cost of living in Austria naturally varies according to location (urban centres are more expensive than rural villages) and personal choice – factors that can certainly influence one's bank balance at the end of the month.

However, expats should note that food costs in Austria are high, especially during winter when fresh fruits and vegetables are more likely to be scarce. The price for purchasing housing is astronomical. Sending children to international schools can also monopolise a fair chunk of an expat's salary.

Cost of accommodation in Austria

Most expats prefer to rent accommodation in Austria, especially as purchasing property in Austria is unaffordable for most.

When initially signing a lease, expats should also anticipate paying at least the equivalent of two months' rent as a refundable deposit in addition to the first month's rent. If using a real-estate agent, the bill may amount to an additional two to three months' rent.

Cost of transportation in Austria

The majority of Austrian cities and towns are well connected by an efficient and reliable public transport system. Larger metropolises feature underground metro trains, tramlines, buses and even suburban railways, while smaller towns may only have one or two modes of transit. Public transport in Austria is moderately priced by European standards.

Cycling is also popular in Austria. Many cities have incorporated bike lanes into their city planning.

Austrians love automobiles. Expats who choose to live outside of the city may opt to buy a car. Note that parking is at a premium, both in terms of availability and price. Owning and driving a car is expensive, and in many cases, it's more of a headache than a help.

Cost of groceries in Austria

Austria has some of the highest food costs in Europe. Buying in bulk can minimise expenditure. Shopping at grocery stores and cooking at home is a good alternative to eating out, cutting down costs.

Penny Markt is probably the most reasonably priced supermarket chain, though at the sacrifice of the quality and selection of the goods available. Spar Gourmet and Merkur are high end, and everything else falls somewhere in between. Fruits and vegetables can be expensive and hard to find out of season.

Cost of education in Austria

Expat residents can send their children to Austrian public schools for free. However, the curriculum is taught in German. If an expat child doesn't already speak some German this can be a difficult option.

There are many international schools in the larger Austrian cities, but these can be expensive. Tuition fees vary depending on the school and the age of the child.

Cost of living chart for Austria

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below is based on average prices in Vienna for August 2022.