LifeCost Blog
Viena

Viena

Austria

Updated on August 23, 2025

Overview

Vienna offers a high quality of life with relatively affordable housing compared to other major European capitals. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges around $1,100–$1,400. The cost of living is moderate, with groceries and public transport being cheaper than in many U.S. cities. The city is safe, has excellent healthcare access, and an efficient public transport system. Winters are cold but manageable, and summers are mild. Vienna's walkability and extensive transit network make daily commuting convenient. The community is diverse with rich cultural offerings, suitable for long-term residents.

Average cost of living€1,565.01
Quality of Life95/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€650.00
1-bed flat (center)€1,078.00
1-bed flat (outside)€773.54
3-bed flat (center)€1,987.00
3-bed flat (outside)€1,415.00

Utilities

Basic utilities€287.73
Internet€35.33
Mobile plan€14.41

Transportation

One-way ticket€2.40
Monthly pass€35.00
Taxi start€4.00
Gasoline (1 l)€1.61

Leisure

Cinema ticket€12.00
Fitness club€41.60

Education

Preschool (month)€282.50
Intl. primary (year)€20,000.00

Buying House

sqm in city center€9,327.00
sqm outside center€5,965.00

Advantages

  • Affordable housing compared to major European capitals
  • Efficient and inexpensive public transport
  • High safety and healthcare standards
  • Walkable city with good climate balance
  • Diverse cultural community

Disadvantages

  • × Housing prices rising in popular districts
  • × Cold winters may be challenging
  • × Utilities can add to monthly costs
  • × Some bureaucracy in housing applications
  • × Groceries can be pricier for imported goods