Digital Nomad Life in Vienna, Austria
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Vienna, Austria because of its high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and vibrant cultural scene. Vienna is a safe and affordable city, with a population of 1.9 million people. The weather in Vienna is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the winter and the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit in the summer. The best neighborhood for digital nomads to live in Vienna is the city center, which is home to many of the city's attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. It is also well-connected to the rest of the city via public transportation. The approximate monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Vienna is around $1,500 USD, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Vienna is around $1,000 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Vienna?
When we asked people living in Vienna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Vienna can join a number of organizations to meet people and participate in activities, such as International Women's Club of Vienna, the American Women's Club of Vienna, and the Vienna International Club. Besides joining a club or organization, expats can seek out activities and events that are intended for English-speaking people and newcomers, such as Meetup Vienna and Expat in Vienna. Expats can also take language classes, attend meetups or social events organized by expat groups, or even join a local sports team. Finally, many Viennese coffee houses and restaurants provide excellent places for socializing and networking," said one expat in Vienna, Austria.
"Going to discos, opera or joining a hiking club are great ways to meet Austrians," remarked one member in Vienna .
What is life like in Vienna?
When we asked people living in Vienna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Vienna as an expat or digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a high quality of life in Vienna, with excellent public transportation, a wide range of international restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is also home to a large expat community, making it easy to meet new people and make friends. Vienna is a great place to live for those looking for a safe and secure environment, with a low cost of living and plenty of job opportunities," said one person in Vienna.
"Lives evolve around work during the weekdays and relaxation on the weekends, some people are also fans of the Rapid Austria and Wien soccer clubs," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Vienna .
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Where should I live in Vienna?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"If you are seeking a place to live in Vienna, you may want to begin by researching popular neighbourhoods, such as the 7th District which is known as Neubau and is home to many of the city's art spaces and bars. A great place to start is Wohnungsmarkt.at, which allows users to search for apartments in a variety of Vienna's neighbourhoods and compare prices. Additionally, WG-Gesucht.at is another popular website in Austria that helps match tenants to rental properties. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can meet with landlords or real estate agents to arrange a viewing in person. Be sure to also explore government-subsidised housing for students, interns and refugees as well as short-term furnished rentals," explained one person living in Vienna, Austria, Austria.
What do I need to know before moving to Vienna?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Vienna, they said:
"Retiring in Vienna can be a wonderful experience as it offers a variety of cultural activities, excellent healthcare, and a high quality of life. Before making the move, it is important to familiarize yourself with the country's retirement policies and visa requirements. It is also essential to check the health insurance coverage offered in the country and acquire the right documents, such as a European Health Insurance Card. When it comes to finding a place to live, it is important to research the available housing options and find an area that best suits your needs. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cost of living in Vienna, as it is higher than in other parts of Austria. Lastly, expats should work with a local immigration authority to ensure that all the required paperwork is in order for a successful and stress-free transition," said one expat in Vienna, Austria.
"Try to accept the local way of life and learn the language. This is perhaps the country in the whole world where speaking the local language and imitating local customs makes the difference between being truly "in" and just getting by," remarked one member in Vienna .
Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Vienna?
"Expatriates in Vienna appreciate the city’s rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its wealth of history, art, and architecture. The city offers a refined and unique atmosphere that many expats find attractive. Furthermore, locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness, which expats often find welcoming and comforting. Expats also enjoy Vienna’s strong commitment to quality and excellence in its educational, cultural, and employment opportunities. Additionally, expats often cite the great food and café culture as a highlight of the city, with its wide range of traditional Austrian cuisine, beer and coffee, and other culinary delights," explained one expat living in Vienna, Austria, Austria.
"Vienna is a great town with much to do. It is probably among the best cities in the world in which to live. Austrians are not necessarily difficult and English is spoken by virtually everyone now but closeness is still an issue," said one person in Vienna.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Vienna?
"Expats in Vienna may find the local culture challenging due to the strong emphasis on formal etiquette. Austrians tend to be quite conscious of manners and expect guests to adhere to formal codes of conduct, such as dressing more formally than is typical in other countries. Additionally, Austrians are generally very private and can take a while to open up and become comfortable with strangers. Therefore, expats may find it difficult to quickly form new relationships and become integrated into the local culture," said one person in Vienna, Austria.
"Being alone and finding friends who are of like ideas and interests. I am happily married and am not looking for romance but having close friends with which to do things is a challenge," said one expat who made the move to Vienna.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Vienna for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Vienna for a while, you will need to obtain an Austrian Residence Permit. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a visa before you arrive in Austria," said one person in Vienna, Austria.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Vienna?
We asked people in Vienna if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"When first here I rode the Tram and wanted to stop. Not knowing what the red handle was for, I chose to pull it, thereby stopping the tram abruptly. The driver came back and scolded me in German. You get the idea," remarked one member in Vienna.
"It is important to be aware that Vienna has a variety of culture and customs that are important to the local people, so it is helpful to take the time to learn about them before visiting. It is considered rude to be overly loud in public places, and in some places, like museums and churches, it is best to remain silent. Furthermore, it is considered offensive to take photos of people without asking for their permission first. When out to eat, leave restaurants in Vienna a small tip, as this is expected and considered proper etiquette. Additionally, when in public spaces, such as cafes or bars, be sure to be respectful with your choice of language and avoid conversations related to politics, race or religion, as these can be sensitive topics to some," explained one expat living in Vienna, Austria, Austria.
Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are healthcare services like in Vienna?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Vienna, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Vienna, are known for their high quality and accessibility. The city boasts a well-developed public healthcare system, which is funded through social insurance contributions and taxes. This system provides comprehensive medical care to all residents, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services. Vienna is home to numerous hospitals and medical centers, including the renowned Vienna General Hospital, which is one of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Europe. The city also has several specialized clinics and research institutions, such as the Medical University of Vienna, which is a leading center for medical research and education. In addition to public healthcare services, Vienna also offers a range of private healthcare options. Many residents choose to supplement their public healthcare with private insurance, which can provide access to additional services and shorter waiting times. Private clinics and hospitals in Vienna offer a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments and surgeries. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and many are open 24 hours a day. They provide prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as advice on minor health issues. In case of emergencies, Vienna has a well-coordinated ambulance service, which can be accessed by dialing 112. Overall, healthcare services in Vienna are of high quality, with a strong emphasis on prevention and early intervention. The city's healthcare system is designed to ensure that all residents have access to the medical care they need, regardless of their income or social status," said one foreigner in Vienna.
"Well worth the money, which is affordable, and no such thing as pre-existing conditions, for the insurance to give you a reason to be denied," remarked one member in Vienna.
Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are the pros and cons of living in Vienna?
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Vienna, for its high quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and rich cultural heritage. They appreciate the city's cleanliness, safety, and well-organized infrastructure. The abundance of green spaces, parks, and outdoor recreational activities also make Vienna an attractive place to live. Moreover, the city's central location in Europe allows for easy travel to other countries and cities. The vibrant arts and music scene, along with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites, provide ample opportunities for entertainment and cultural enrichment. Expats and digital nomads also enjoy the city's diverse culinary offerings, including traditional Austrian cuisine, international restaurants, and bustling markets. However, there are some aspects of living in Vienna that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The cost of living can be relatively high, particularly when it comes to housing and dining out. Some may find the local bureaucracy and paperwork involved in obtaining visas, work permits, and other necessary documents to be cumbersome and time-consuming. The language barrier can also be a challenge for those who do not speak German, as it may limit job opportunities and make it difficult to navigate certain aspects of daily life. Additionally, some expats and digital nomads may find the Viennese people to be somewhat reserved and not as welcoming to newcomers as they would like. Lastly, the weather in Vienna can be a downside for some, as the city experiences cold and gray winters with limited daylight hours. This can lead to feelings of seasonal affective disorder and make it challenging to stay active and motivated during the winter months," explained one digital nomad living in Vienna, Austria.
Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More
SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More
Austria Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Austria on our Austria forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Austria by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Austria.
Digital Nomads in Austria offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Austria.