Cost of living in Vienna: The ultimate guide

Discover the true cost of living in Vienna with insights on groceries, leisure activities, health insurance, accommodation, and public transport expenses.

Jale

4 minute read

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Updated on 20 Mar 2024

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Living

Vienna, often ranked as one of the world's most livable cities, offers a high quality of life. But this exceptional quality of life does come with its own set of expenses. Whether you're a student or a young professional, we've got you covered with a comprehensive overview of what to expect when it comes to the cost of living in Vienna.

In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of living expenses in Vienna, providing you with all the information you need to plan your budget effectively.

If you're considering a move to Vienna, one of the first questions that might cross your mind is, “Is Vienna expensive?". Depending on which cities you’re comparing to, there are 2 answers. Compared to other European capitals like Madrid and Rome, Vienna is more expensive. But when you compare the cost of living in Paris or London to Vienna’s, you’ll find Vienna more affordable. But with an average monthly salary of €3,500, living in Vienna doesn’t have to break the bank.

Your average cost of living in Vienna can vary depending on your lifestyle and accommodation choice. Without the rent, your monthly costs will be around €900. As you can see, a big chunk of your budget will go to the rent. When factoring rent, you’re looking at a monthly cost between €1,570 (renting a room) and €2,090 (renting a studio) as a single person.

Take a closer look at the different categories below to make a better budget for yourself.

Vienna offers a diverse range of housing options, from cosy apartments to spacious family homes. The cost of accommodation can vary significantly based on location, size, amenities and type.

Here's a glimpse of average monthly rent prices in Vienna:

• Furnished Private Room with utilities (ideal for students): €570.
• Furnished Studio with utilities (suitable for singles or couples): €929.
• Unfurnished Apartment with utilities (ideal for families): €1,190.

While Vienna is generally more affordable than some other European cities, such as Amsterdam and Paris, prices can vary depending on the district. Consider exploring areas outside the city centre for more budget-friendly options. Starting early to explore rental homes in Vienna will help you secure the best deals.

On average, you can expect to spend between €200 to €350 per month on food and groceries in Vienna. Food prices are more expensive if you shop from organic stores. Shopping from discount supermarkets like Aldi, Hofer, and Penny Markt will save you more money.

Below you’ll find average prices for common food products in Vienna:

Health insurance in Austria is mandatory for all residents. But the cost of health insurance depends on your circumstances.

International students from the EU/EEA region can simply use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For non-EU students, the cost of health insurance is approximately €66.70. This cost can vary based on several factors, including the insurance provider, the level of coverage, and any additional services included in the plan.

If you’re a working resident, you pay approximately €50 per month for basic health insurance, and the cost is deducted from your salary. Keep in mind that when your salary increases, your health insurance cost also will increase.

Although public health insurance generally provides comprehensive coverage, you also have the choice to enhance your benefits with private insurance. You can opt for various supplementary insurance policies in addition to your public health coverage. Private supplementary insurance will result in an additional monthly expense ranging from €45 to €100.

Vienna offers a range of entertainment and leisure options, catering to various interests and budgets. The cost of eating out in Vienna will depend on your choice of restaurant. But on average, dinner in a mid-range restaurant costs around €100 to €150 for 2 people.

Here are some average costs for leisure activities in Vienna:

Vienna boasts an efficient public transportation system that covers the entire city. Transportation costs are reasonable and can be tailored to your needs:

• Single one-way metro ticket: €2.40
• Monthly unlimited public transportation pass: €51
• Cycling: Vienna offers a bike-sharing system with annual subscriptions starting at €3 per month.
• Taxis: Base fare of €3.80 and €1.80 per km.

In addition to monthly public transport, you can also obtain an annual unlimited pass for €366. Many locals opt for this option cause it’s a cheaper than monthly subscription.

By considering the costs outlined in this article, you can effectively plan your finances for a fulfilling life in this beautiful Austrian city. Are you a student? Then look into the living costs in Vienna for students. Whether you're moving for work or education, Vienna's charm and opportunities will make it a worthwhile destination!

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