🇦🇹 Cost of Living in Austria - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Austria
CapitalVienna
Population9.2 million
Area83,871 km² (32,383 sq mi)
LanguagesGerman
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Central Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$73,911 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.9% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$6,739 (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend16.5% (2024)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.3% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Quick Facts
Cost LevelExpensive
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$80-120 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$300-450 USD
CurrencyEUR
Tipping Customexpected (5-10% in restaurants and bars)
How Expensive Is Austria?
Austria is considered an expensive country, with a high cost of living compared to other European nations. The country's strong economy, high standard of living, and popular tourist destinations contribute to its expensive nature. Compared to its neighbors, Austria is more expensive than the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary, but similar in price to Switzerland and Germany. Visitors and expats can expect to pay a premium for accommodation, food, and transportation, especially in major cities like Vienna and Salzburg.
The high cost of living in Austria is also reflected in the prices of everyday items, such as food and clothing. However, the country's excellent public transportation system, high-quality healthcare, and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for tourists and expats alike. With some planning and budgeting, visitors can still experience the best of Austria without breaking the bank.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$30-60
Typical quality, shared rooms and bathrooms
Mid-Range Hotel
$100-200
Private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and basic amenities
Luxury/Resort
$250-500
High-end amenities, spacious rooms, and excellent service
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$800-1,500
City center, one-bedroom apartment, prices vary depending on location and size
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$10-20
Casual Restaurant
$20-35
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$50-80
Fine Dining
$100-200
Beer (local)
$5-10
Coffee
$3-6
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-4
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-4
Taxi (per km)
$2-5
Domestic flight
$100-200
Fuel (per liter)
$1.50-2.50
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
800
1,200
1,800
Food
500
800
1,200
Transport
100
200
300
Utilities
150
250
350
Entertainment
200
400
600
Total
1,750
2,850
4,250
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting during the off-season (April-May or September-October) to avoid peak tourist prices.
Take advantage of Austria's excellent public transportation system, which offers affordable and efficient travel options.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls, which offer delicious and affordable meals.
Explore free or low-cost attractions, such as parks, museums, and historical landmarks.
Buy a Vienna Card or Salzburg Card, which offer discounts and free entry to many attractions.
Shop at local markets or supermarkets, which offer a wide range of affordable food and drink options.