Cost of living in Austria: what do Russians need to know?

General overview of the budget in Austria

The Austrian budget, examined through the prism of the Russian reality, especially taking into account the current currency fluctuations, shows that life in this country cannot be considered cheap. In the past, Austrian prices were quite acceptable for Russian citizens with ordinary incomes. Nevertheless, Austria is still an attractive destination for most Europeans, both for comfortable living and for shopping and food shopping.

Real estate prices

The level of housing prices in Austria is at a more attractive level compared to the UK and France, which provides an opportunity for those wishing to buyreal estate on favorable terms. At the same time, housing prices tend to grow steadily.

High prices in Vienna

The highest living costs and high quality of service await visitors to Vienna, Austria's main city. However, perceptions of the cost of living can vary considerably. For example, residents of the UK and France may consider the price level in Austria to be quite reasonable, while for citizens of the Netherlands, Spain or Russia the cost will be higher than in their home countries.

Income comparison

To live with a similar level of comfort and taking into account rent rates, one would have to pay about €1350 in Moscow and €1640 in Vienna. At the same time, the average net salary in Austria is less than €2000, which means that almost a third of income is spent on housing costs. Of course, the cost of living varies depending on where you live - renting in the city center will be significantly more expensive than in the suburbs, and preferences and habits also influence financial costs.

Family expenses

The most significant expenses for families are related to housing costs and educational costs for children to attend international schools. In addition, a large part of the grocery budget is spent on fresh fruits and vegetables, especially in winter.

Food prices

Food prices in Austria remain a hot topic of discussion in the European context. In order to save money, it is recommended to shop in supermarkets and cook at home - an optimal solution for those who want to reduce family expenses:

• The most affordable items can be found in chain stores like Penny Markt and Zielpunkt.
• More delicacies and expensive products are available at Spar Gourmet and Merkur.

Cost of alcohol

On the contrary, the cost of alcohol in Austria is quite low. For example, a bottle of table wine costs only €2, and beer costs from €0.8.

Average product prices

The average rates for staple foods are as follows:

• 1 liter of milk is €1.04;
• Fresh bread (loaf) - €1.54;
• 1 kg of rice is €1.68;
• 12 eggs - €3.00.

Conclusion

These data emphasize that living in Austria has its unique aspects, both in the context of housing prices and the cost of groceries. Ultimately, total expenditure always depends on the choice of residence and consumption habits.

Prices for food and services in Austria

In Austria, there are characteristic features of prices for food and various services. For example, a kilogram of local cheese can be purchased for3.11 euros.while a kilo of chicken fillet will cost you8.5 euros.

As for fruit, apples and oranges cost approx.2-2.3 euros per kilogramand some vegetables, such as tomatoes and potatoes, are valued in the range of1.6 to 2.5 eurosper kilogram. A bottle of drinking water with a volume of1.5 literspriced0.67 eurosand a bottle of local wine will cost you5 euros.

When it comes to beer, the local (in volume0.5 liters) can be found for0.93 euroswhile imports (volume of0.33 liters) It's worth it1.2 euros. Prices for a pack of cigarettes, such as Marlboro, are approx.4.8 euros.

Restaurant prices

When it comes to restaurants, lunch for one person at an inexpensive cafe or fast-food joint similar to McDonald's will cost approx.7-9 euros. For two people ordering a three-course menu at a mid-priced restaurant, it would take approx.40 euros.

Interestingly, the price of local or imported beer in restaurants is approx.3.5 euros.

Fashion and entertainment

In terms of fashion and leisure, jeans from the Levi's brand can be purchased for a77 eurosand a summer dress is worth about35 eurosand men's shoes, including Nike shoes and sneakers, range from80 to 100 euros.

A fitness club membership will cost approx.32 eurosand renting a tennis court for one hour is approx.15 euros. Movie tickets also have their own price - approx.9.8 euros.

As far as communication is concerned, the cost of a minute of talk time on a cell phone is about0.07 eurosWhile an unlimited internet subscription (10 Mbps) will cost on average20 euros a month.

Housing rental

When it comes to renting, non-EU foreigners who are not EU citizens and want to purchase real estate in Austria must first obtain a special permit. The process of obtaining this authorization is usually quick if all the requirements of the Austrian authorities are met.

Rental prices can vary significantly depending on the location. In Vienna, construction companies are actively engaged in the construction of public houses with preferential rental terms, which allows you to find acceptable options even in prestigious areas. As a rule, these are small apartments, but with affordable rents.

When you sign a lease, you should realize that additional costs may amount to two months' rent, and if you use an agency, you will also have to pay for their services.

Education in Austria

First of all, it is important to mention that education in Austrian educational institutions is in German. If your child does not speak this language, it will be difficult, if not impossible, for them to learn.

There are many international schools in Austria's major cities, but it is worth bearing in mind that tuition costs at these institutions can reach impressive sums of around €18,000 per year. These rates vary depending on the school chosen and the age of the student. Therefore, many foreign labor migrants who have decided to move to Austria are advised to discuss with their employer the possibility of including educational expenses for children in their employment contract.

International schools

International schools offer a variety of curricula, including home country curricula and the International Baccalaureate (IB). Instruction may be in English or in the language of the student's home country.

Many families coming from abroad prefer this format of educational institution, as it helps to avoid language barriers and continue the educational process in a familiar atmosphere. But despite the high cost, the number of places in popular international schools is usually very limited.

Bilingual schools

There are also bilingual schools in Austria, where classes are conducted in English and German at the same time. Students at these schools learn communication skills quickly and have the opportunity to interact with local children. In many cases, tuition at these institutions can be provided free of charge.

Public transport

When it comes to public transport, most Austrian cities are very well organized. In major population centers, you can take advantage of the subway metro, the extensive network of streetcar routes and buses, as well as rail lines connecting suburbs and city centers.

In smaller and provincial settlements, the choice of means of transportation is much more limited. If we make a comparison with Russia, the cost of travel on Austrian public transportation is quite high:

• One subway ride in Vienna costs €2.20.
• A one-month unlimited pass is €48.20.

Bike lanes and rentals

Some cities have well-maintained bike lanes, and bike rentals cost around €5 per hour. However, maintaining a car in Austria is quite expensive:

• The price of a Volkswagen Golf car here is 44% higher than in Moscow (€20,100 vs. €13,900).
• Fuel costs more than twice as much as Russian prices (€1.22 vs. €0.57).

In addition, city dwellers often struggle with parking issues, both in terms of costs and finding available spaces.

Medical services in Austria

Speaking of medical services, foreigners coming to Austria can be sure of the high quality of the local healthcare system, which is one of the best in Europe. The availability and level of medical services are impressive, and this allows you to be sure that your health will be in good hands.

Thus, residents and visitors to Austria can enjoy living in a country with highly developed education and health care systems as well as excellent public transportation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that living in Austria is gaining attention among Russians seeking to improve their quality of life. Even though the country's economy has experienced significant changes against the backdrop of an unstable exchange rate, Austria is still an attractive destination for those seeking solace and comfort in life.

Comparing the cost of living in Moscow and Vienna, it becomes obvious that although the costs in the Austrian capital may seem high, they are justified by the high quality of life and security. Despite substantial housing costs, which can take up a significant part of the budget, the possibility of renovation and rising real estate prices creates an attractive opportunity for investors.

Education system

Moreover,education systemin Austria offers foreign residents free education for their children, which is an important consideration for many families.

Daily expenses

In terms of everyday expenses, Austrian grocery prices may seem high compared to Russia, but with skill and ingenuity, you can find ways to optimize your budget. Plus,affordable alcohol pricesmake life in Austria a little more enjoyable for those who prefer to relax with a glass of wine or beer.

Key points

• High quality of life and security in Austria.
• Comparison of average housing costs in Moscow and Vienna.
• Free education for foreign residents.
• Opportunities to optimize your budget when shopping for groceries.
• Affordable alcohol prices.

After all, living in Austria requires recognizing the reality of the market and being flexible in your approach to everyday expenses. Nevertheless, if you are willing to adapt and learn how to organize your finances, the quality of life and opportunities this country offers make it a worthwhile place to live. It is important to remember that every step you take with new experiences broadens your horizons and opens up new perspectives.