Cost of Living in Austria
Jules de Bruin
Expat in Vienna
Updated: April 23 2026
As of April 2026, according to Statistics Austria and Numbeo, a single person in Vienna needs approximately 1,330 EUR per month excluding rent. One-bedroom apartments in Vienna city center range from 750 to 1,100 EUR per month, while outside the center they cost 550–800 EUR. Weekly groceries average 50–80 EUR, and Vienna's annual transit pass (Jahreskarte) costs 461 EUR (standard) or 294 EUR (under 26). Austria is more affordable than Zurich, Munich, or London, but pricier than most Eastern European capitals.
How Much Does Rent Cost in Austrian Cities?
Rent varies significantly depending on the city, district, and whether the apartment is on the private market or a subsidized municipal or cooperative housing unit (Gemeindewohnung or Genossenschaftswohnung). Below are approximate monthly rent ranges for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center:
| City | 1-Bedroom (Center) | 1-Bedroom (Outside Center) |
|---|---|---|
| Vienna | 750 – 1,100 EUR | 550 – 800 EUR |
| Graz | 600 – 850 EUR | 450 – 650 EUR |
| Salzburg | 750 – 1,100 EUR | 550 – 800 EUR |
| Innsbruck | 800 – 1,200 EUR | 600 – 900 EUR |
| Linz | 600 – 900 EUR | 450 – 700 EUR |
Note: Innsbruck and Salzburg tend to be more expensive due to limited housing supply and high demand from tourists and students. Vienna benefits from a large municipal housing stock that helps keep rents more moderate than you might expect for a capital city.
How Much Do Groceries Cost in Austria?
Grocery costs in Austria are reasonable, especially if you shop at budget-friendly chains. The main supermarket chains are Billa and Billa Plus (premium range), Spar and Eurospar, Hofer (Aldi), Lidl, and Penny. A rough weekly grocery budget for one person is 50 to 80 EUR.
| Item | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 liter) | 1.20 – 1.60 EUR |
| Bread (500g loaf) | 1.50 – 3.00 EUR |
| Eggs (12 pack) | 3.00 – 4.50 EUR |
| Chicken breast (1 kg) | 8.00 – 12.00 EUR |
| Rice (1 kg) | 1.50 – 3.00 EUR |
| Beer (0.5L, domestic) | 0.80 – 1.50 EUR |
How Much Does Public Transportation Cost in Austria?
Public transport in Austria is excellent and affordable. Key costs:
- Vienna annual pass (Jahreskarte): 461 EUR (standard) or 294 EUR (under 26, senior 65+, Spezial)
- Vienna monthly pass: 51 EUR
- KlimaTicket (all of Austria): 1,095 EUR/year
- Single ticket (Vienna): 2.40 EUR
- Gasoline: approximately 1.40 – 1.70 EUR/liter
How Much Do Utilities Cost in Austria?
Monthly utilities for a 60-80 sqm apartment typically cost between 150 and 250 EUR, covering electricity, heating, water, and waste collection. Many older apartments in Vienna use district heating (Fernwaerme), which is efficient and reasonably priced. Internet costs between 20 and 40 EUR per month. Mobile phone plans range from 5 EUR (basic prepaid) to 30 EUR (unlimited data contract). Most payments are handled through an Austrian bank account.
What Is a Sample Monthly Budget for a Single Person in Vienna?
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom, outside center) | 650 EUR |
| Utilities | 180 EUR |
| Groceries | 280 EUR |
| Public transport | 30 EUR |
| Mobile phone + internet | 40 EUR |
| Dining out / entertainment | 150 EUR |
| Health insurance (if not covered) | 0 EUR (deducted from salary) |
| Total | ~1,330 EUR |
This is a moderate budget. Costs can be lower if you live in shared housing (WG) or higher if you prefer a central location and eat out frequently.
Related Guides
Finding Housing
How to find apartments, renting process, deposits, and tenant rights.
Income Tax Guide
Tax brackets, deductions, and how your net salary is calculated.
Opening a Bank Account
How to open an Austrian bank account for salary payments and bills.
SIM Cards
Best prepaid and contract mobile plans for expats in Austria.