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Austria is an amazing country thanks to its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class attractions. From the majestic Alps to the historic cities of Vienna and Salzburg, there is something for everyone to experience in this beautiful country in the heart of Europe.
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From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the crystal-clear lakes of the Salzkammergut region, Austria boasts breathtaking natural landscapes. The country’s cities are also known for their historic architecture, charming coffee houses, and world-class museums.
In addition to its natural beauty, Austria has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated throughout the country. From classical music concerts to traditional folk festivals, there is always something to see and experience.
The country is also home to some of the world’s most famous artists, including Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, whose works can be seen in museums across the country.
Austria boasts a high standard of living too. The country consistently ranks among the top in quality of life surveys, thanks to its excellent healthcare, education, and public transportation systems.
With its strong economy and low unemployment rate, Austria is an attractive destination for those looking to work or start a business and one of the best places to live in Europe.
14 Best Places to Live in Austria for Expats
While the case for Austria can be easily made, the decision of which city of Austria to live in is far more difficult to make. Worry not, though, because we have selected 14 of the most beautiful Austrian cities for your perusal. They are all charming in their own way, so take your pick!
Vienna
Vienna is a lively city that offers an excellent blend of old and new, with a vibrant culture, natural beauty, and a diverse food scene. The city is also a business hub, with numerous opportunities to network and collaborate with like-minded professionals.
Why is Vienna a Magnet for Expats?
- Stunning Architecture: Here you’ll find some of Europe’s most stunning architecture, such as the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. These are attractions not to be missed by anyone who appreciates fine art and history.
- Plenty of Exhibitions: The city’s numerous museums and galleries provide an opportunity to discover Vienna’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
- It’s a Music Capital: For those interested in music, no place is quite like Vienna. The city is renowned for its magnificent opera houses, such as the Vienna State Opera House. The city also boasts the Wiener Musikverein and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
- The Food Scene: The city is known for its traditional Viennese cuisine, including Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte. What’s more, Vienna is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and wine bars. Many of these establishments offer free Wi-Fi.
- Great Work-Life Balance: The city’s high quality of living makes it an attractive destination for people seeking a great work-life balance.
Salzburg
Located in the heart of Europe, the picturesque city of Salzburg is known for its cultural heritage and beautiful architecture. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as skiing, cycling, and hiking.
Why Should You Move to Salzburg as an Expat?
- Salzburg is Affordable: Accommodation, food, and transport costs are relatively low compared to other major European cities.
- Salzbury is Convenient: Salzburg Airport is just a short flight away from many other European destinations such as Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam.
- Famous Landmarks: The Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Mirabell Palace can be found in Salzburg. In particular, Getreidegasse (Grain Lane) is a bustling shopping district that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
- Mozart Lived Here Too: It is the birthplace and childhood home of the legendary composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who resided in no. 9 until he was 17. The street’s unique character is defined by its narrowness and the multiple tall townhouses, each adorned with ornate wrought iron guild signs.
Graz
Graz is a great city for expats and digital nomads due to its affordability, friendly locals, diverse cultural offerings, and abundance of coworking spaces. The city is nestled in the Austrian Alps and is known for its rich history and stunning architecture.
What Makes Graz Ideal for Expats?
- The Old Town, or Altstadt: The narrow streets are lined with beautiful buildings from various periods in history, including Renaissance and Baroque. Here you’ll find landmarks like the Graz Clock Tower and Graz Cathedral, as well as street performers and local markets.
- Schlossberg Hill: It’s a steep climb to the castle ruins, but the views of the city are worth the trek. You can also take the Schlossbergbahn funicular to the top if you’re not that into the hike.
- Plenty of Coworking Space and Communal Workspace: Graz offers both traditional office setups and more relaxed environments, like cafes, to work in. Some popular options include LAB10 Coworking Space, AULA X Space, and BlueLab.
Linz
Linz has a vibrant nightlife, great restaurants, and a lot of cultural and natural attractions. Its museums, castle, parks, and the Danube River provide plenty of things to do for everyone. What’s more, Linz is a very safe and affordable city, making it ideal for people looking to relocate abroad.
Why Should Linz Be on Your Short List as an Expat?
- It’s Modern: The Ars Electronica Center is a museum dedicated to art and technology. It showcases a variety of exhibitions and interactive exhibits on the latest and innovations. Linz also has excellent infrastructure, modern buildings, great transport system, and fast internet connection.
- It’s Historic Too: Another must-visit attraction is Linz Castle, which was initially built in the 13th century and later expanded in the 17th century. It has a beautiful park and a museum that displays the city’s history.
- Nature is Here: For those who enjoy nature, Linz has several parks and gardens worth a visit. One of them is the Botanical Garden Linz, which has more than 5,000 plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place for a picnic or a quiet walk surrounded by nature.
- Water Sports: If you love water sports, you’ll be delighted to learn that the Danube River offers many opportunities for water activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding, and swimming.
Innsbruck
Innsbruck has a vibrant and multicultural community that makes it easy for expats to feel at home, and because the city is in the middle of the Alps, it provides a unique opportunity for expats to enjoy outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
Why Should You Give Innsbruck Some Serious Thoughts as an Expat?
- The Altstadt, or Old Town: The Altstadt is full of charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks like the Golden Roof and St. Anne’s Column.
- Skiing: Another popular attraction is the Bergisel Ski Jump, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a tour of the ski jump and learn about its history.
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds: It is a theme park dedicated to the famous Austrian crystal brand, featuring art installations, a crystal dome, and a garden. There is also a restaurant, cafe, and shop selling Swarovski products.
- Infrastructure and Convenience: Innsbruck offers a high quality of life with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of its proximity to some of the best skiing resorts in Europe.
- A Gateway to Other Ski Areas: These include Seefeld, Kitzbühel, and St. Anton. These resorts offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe, along with après-ski activities like spa treatments, concerts, and nightlife.
Klagenfurt
With its beautiful architecture, rich historical heritage, vibrant culture, green spaces, and growing startup scene, Klagenfurt is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads who are looking for a relaxed and welcoming place to call home.
Why Should You Next Home Be in Klagenfurt as an Expat?
- Klagenfurt is Quaint and Charming: Located in southern Austria, Klagenfurt offers a high standard of living and is more affordable compared to other European cities. It also boasts a strong economy, modern infrastructure, businesses that cater to remote workers, and safety.
- An Ideal Working Environment: For digital nomads, Klagenfurt offers an ideal working environment. The city has plenty of coworking spaces, such as Hafen11 and Business Campus Ehrenhausen.
- Stunning Buildings: Klagenfurt is home to Klagenfurt Cathedral and the Renaissance-style Landhaus. Klagenfurt also has many parks and green spaces, including the banks of Lake Wörthersee, which is popular for swimming, boating, and hiking.
- Vibrant Cultural Scene: The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the popular Klagenfurt Summer Festival. The city is home to several museums too, such as the Carinthian Museum of Modern Art.
Bregenz
A charming city in the western state of Vorarlberg, Bregenz offers a high quality of life, affordability, natural beauty, and a friendly populace. People here can enjoy cultural festivals, hiking, water activities, and the convenience of modern infrastructure.
What Makes Bregenz a Darling of Expats?
- The Quiet Life: The lake views and a wide variety of outdoor activities of Bregenz make it an attractive destination for people seeking a quieter and healthier lifestyle.
- Excitement: Bregenz Festival is one of the most prominent music events in Europe. The festival takes place during the summer, and it attracts over 200,000 visitors annually and includes opera, drama, and cultural performances.
- Lake Constance: The crystal-clear water and scenic beauty of Lake Constance captivate tourists and locals alike. You may take a boat tour, go swimming, or sunbathe on the lake’s beaches.
- The Art Scene: Art lovers will appreciate the modern design and excellent collection of contemporary art housed in the spectacular glass building named Kunsthaus Bregenz.
- The Pfänderbahn: Hiking enthusiasts may take the Pfänderbahn, a modern cable car, to explore breathtaking views of the entire region from the 1,064 meters high Pfänder Mountain.
Leoben
With its excellent infrastructure, friendly people, cultural activities, mouth-watering local cuisine, stunning natural settings, outdoor activities, green spaces, and affordable cost of living, Leoben is sure to impress you and make you feel right at home.
Why Should You Settle Down in Leoben as an Expat?
- Great Infrastructure: Leoben, in the state of Styria, has high-speed Internet coverage, plenty of coworking spaces, and excellent transport, making it easy for expats to navigate the city and work remotely.
- Great Cultural Scene: Plenty of museums, theaters, and music venues showcase the rich history of the region. Are you a foodie? Then you must try the local cuisine that includes Styrian pumpkin seed oil, schnitzel, and traditional desserts such as Kaiserschmarrn.
- Green Spaces: The river Mur and surrounding mountains provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. The city also has a large number of public parks and green spaces, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Eisenstadt
Eisenstadt is a wonderful city because of its small-town charm, excellent quality of life, and proximity to Vienna. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, scenic countryside, modern infrastructure, and an affordable cost of living to boot.
Why Should You Call Eisenstadt Home as an Expat?
- Affordability: Located in the Burgenland region of Austria, Eisenstadt’s cost of living is not as high as the major cities.
- Great Infrastructure: Eisenstadt has high-speed Internet, coworking spaces, and cafes with an excellent work atmosphere. The city provides great healthcare, low crime rates, and a relaxed pace of life as well.
- The Baroque-style Esterhazy Palace: A must-see, the palace museum displays a vast collection of artworks, musical instruments, and artifacts of the Esterhazy family, which were the prominent noble families in Austria. It hosts regular classical music concerts and cultural events.
- The Palace Park: The landscaped gardens of the Palace Park is a perfect spot for leisure walks, jogging or picnics. It features several ponds, sculptures, and historic monuments.
- Beautiful Churches: Looking for attractions with more spiritual content? The Haydn Church is a charming, baroque-style church with fantastic acoustics, while the Bergkirche is a beautiful, medieval church and a popular destination for tourists.
Villach
Villach is a vibrant town nestled in the heart of Carinthia, known for its stunning alpine scenery and proximity to crystal-clear lakes. Its lively festivals and outdoor recreational activities make it a top choice for those seeking adventure and a close connection to nature.
Why should expats consider Villach?
- Alpine Scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of the Alps, with plenty of hiking, skiing, and water sports on offer.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: The surrounding lakes and nature parks create the perfect setting for year-round activities.
- Community Vibe: Villach’s friendly locals and cultural events provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
St. Pölten
As the capital of Lower Austria, St. Pölten offers a blend of contemporary architecture and historical charm. Its modern infrastructure and thriving arts scene make it an attractive option for young professionals and families alike.
What makes St. Pölten an ideal expat destination?
- Contemporary Appeal: The city features modern buildings, creative coworking spaces, and an energetic urban vibe.
- Rich Heritage: Historical landmarks and museums reflect the city’s storied past, inviting exploration and learning.
- Convenient Location: With excellent transport links, residents can easily explore the surrounding regions.
Dornbirn
Dornbirn, the largest city in Vorarlberg, stands out for its dynamic economy and forward-thinking spirit. It seamlessly combines modern living with a commitment to preserving its cultural roots, making it a promising destination for those seeking balance.
Why should you consider Dornbirn?
- Thriving Economy: A hub for business and innovation, Dornbirn offers excellent career opportunities.
- Cultural Fusion: The city’s modern flair is complemented by traditional events and local craftsmanship.
- Active Lifestyle: With numerous parks and recreational areas, it’s perfect for both work and play.
Wels
Wels is one of Upper Austria’s oldest cities, where history meets modern convenience. Its well-preserved architecture and vibrant local scene create an inviting environment for expats looking for a place rich in tradition yet ready for the future.
What makes Wels appealing for expats?
- Timeless Charm: Stroll through centuries-old streets lined with historic buildings that tell the city’s fascinating story.
- Modern Amenities: Enjoy contemporary facilities, efficient public transport, and a thriving cultural calendar.
- Family-Friendly: The city’s welcoming community and excellent education options make it ideal for settling down.
Krems an der Donau
Located along the picturesque Danube, Krems an der Donau is renowned for its rich wine culture and storied history. This enchanting town offers a serene lifestyle with a touch of luxury, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing cultural richness.
Why consider Krems an ideal choice?
- Wine & Dine: Krems is at the heart of Austria’s famed Wachau wine region, offering delightful tasting tours and festivals.
- Cultural Richness: The town’s historic architecture and museums celebrate a legacy of art and tradition.
- Tranquil Living: Enjoy a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature and local culinary delights.
Conclusion
Living in Austria is a fulfilling experience with its stunning natural sceneries and vibrant cultural scene. The welcoming nature of Austrians makes it easy for immigrants to integrate into the society. Austria also offers an array of delectable cuisines, festivals, and customs to explore.
If you have enjoyed reading this article, make sure to also read our article on expat living in Belgium. Like Austria, Belgium has a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and excellent cuisine, and Belgium too boasts picturesque cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent.
Whichever country you choose in the end, don’t forget to secure comprehensive international health insurance for yourself and your loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you will be covered no matter what health issue comes up is priceless!
Naturally, we have dedicated health insurance plans as well for expats living in Austria. So if that fits your bill better, we can help too. So contact us today for unbiased advice or a FREE plan comparison!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is housing expensive in Austria?
Overall, housing costs in Austria are in line with Western European levels, but they are more than 10% below what they are in Germany, and on average almost 30% below what they are in France. However, generally you’ll have to pay more in Austria than in the US for a home of the same size.
Is Austria a safe country to live in?
According to the Global Peace Index 2021, Austria ranks as the ninth-safest country in the world. It has a low crime rate, high-quality health care, and a stable political environment. Austria is generally considered to be a safe and peaceful country to live in.
Is English commonly understood in Austria?
English is commonly understood in Austria, especially among younger generations. However, in certain rural areas or among older generations, German may be the only language spoken. Moreover, it is always respectful to attempt to speak some basic German phrases when communicating with locals.
Is public transport good in Austria?
Austria has a well-developed, generally affordable and efficient public transport system. The country has extensive rail, bus and tram networks. The trains are modern, clean, and punctual. Apart from the urban areas, Austria has a good regional network of buses connecting smaller towns and villages.
Since joining Pacific Prime, Martin has become even more aware of the gap between the true value of insurance products and most people’s appreciation of it, and developed a passion for demystifying and simplifying matters, so that more people get the protection they need at a cost they can easily afford.
In his free time, Martin attends concerts of various genres, and plays the violin with piano accompaniment he pre-recorded himself or played live by his niece.
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