Vienna

Cost of living in Vienna

Best expatriate areas in Vienna

As the curtain rises on expatriate life in Vienna, a symphony of distinct residential quarters awaits, each playing its unique note in the vibrant melody of the city. These neighborhoods offer comfortable living spaces and a gateway to the city’s rich cultural heritage and modern amenities. We will also be providing you with accommodation guides, notable attractions, and insights into which types of expats would thrive in these areas.  Let us help you find your ideal neighborhood through historic enclaves, dynamic urban hubs, and peaceful suburbs.

Innere Stadt “1st District - The Cultural Core”

Innere Stadt, historical core of the city, is a charming and culturally enriched district. Expatriates in the area can stroll its centuries-old streets, visit architectural marvels, and explore its historical establishments. The area's well-maintained infrastructure ensures convenience, with efficient public transportation and essential amenities within easy reach. The atmosphere in the area is enchanting, with its cobbled streets and elegant architecture serving as a signature feature.

What type of accommodation can you find in Innere Stadt?

The most common accommodation type in Innere Stadt ranges from mid-level to upscale apartments. The residential units are scattered throughout the historic streets, offering residents both diversity and historic charm. Apartments often comprise one to two bedrooms, with an average size of around 60-90 square meters. There are also other residential options in adjacent neighborhoods, such as Leopoldstadt and Josefstadt.

We advise expatriates seeking a peaceful area to look for accommodations in the northern part of Innere Stadt near the Danube Canal. Expats looking for a more vibrant scene can explore the Graben and Kärntnerring areas. Innere Stadt provides essential facilities such as supermarkets and healthcare centers. The neighborhood is well-connected with public transportation options, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn subway system. We highly recommend walking in the district to explore cultural attractions.

What to do in Innere Stadt?

Innere Stadt boasts remarkable museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien and the Albertina, both world-class art museums housed in an impressive building. We also recommend visiting The Hofburg, an imperial palace offering stunning architecture and a silver museum. Expats into spiritual adventure can visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, famous for its grand architecture and catacombs containing the significant people in Austria. Foreigners into classical performances can visit Vienna Operahouse, featuring choir, ballet, opera, and orchestra performances of famous groups and artists.

We recommend that expatriates dine at the renowned Figlmüller restaurant and explore the vibrant nightlife along Graben Street. Expatriates looking to unwind in green spaces can visit Stadt Park and Rathauspark, offering refreshing views and retreat from the district's busy streets. There is a lack of holistic international schools in the central areas. However, expats can still send their children to decent schools, such as European Primary School, offering quality education to learners of all kinds. 

Who is Innere Stadt best for?

We recommend Innere Stadt to a diverse range of expatriates, from couples seeking a romantic city experience to families seeking historical and cultural immersion. The area suits global nomads, digital nomads, and professionals looking for a balanced lifestyle, appealing to those seeking moderately lively residential areas, vibrant social activities, and a convenient location. We do not recommend owning a vehicle to expats due to the district's central location and excellent public transportation,

Leopoldstadt “2nd District - The Holistic Riverside”

Leopoldstadt, situated to the northeast of Vienna's city center, is a lively district with a vibrant history. Expatriates in the area can immerse themselves in the green spaces, numerous galleries, theaters, and performance spaces.  The district boasts a well-connected neighborhood with modern infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and convenient public transportation options. The atmosphere of the area is characterized by its diverse communities and the iconic Prater amusement park, known for its giant Ferris wheel.

What type of accommodation can you find in Leopoldstadt?

Accommodation in Leopoldstadt ranges from entry-level to mid-level apartments. The district's residential quarters are prominently located around the Prater area and the Karmelitermarkt district. Apartments typically feature one to three bedrooms and span an average size of 50 to 120 square meters. Furthermore, the district presents additional residential alternatives, such as the emerging neighborhoods surrounding the Messe Wien fairground.

We recommend that expatriates seeking a peaceful environment look in the Karmeliterviertel area. Expats looking for a livelier area can look along Praterstern road. Essential facilities such as supermarkets, medical centers, and other services are conveniently available throughout the district. The district is well-served by public transportation, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn subway system. Expatriates who are into biking will find the district bike-friendly.

What to do in Leopoldstadt?

Leopoldstadt houses notable museums, including the Vienna Crime Museum, showcasing different artifacts used to punish criminals and the history of crime in Vienna.  We recommend expatriates to visit the historic beer garden, Schweizerhaus, for traditional Austrian fare and Ernst Happel Stadium, for expats who are into sports events. We highly recommend visiting the iconic Prater park, which offers an array of recreational activities, extensive green spaces, and amusement park rides. Expatriates can send their children to Danube International School Vienna GmbH, offering a holistic education and supporting learners to reach their potential.

Who is Leopoldstadt best for?

We recommend Leopoldstadt for expatriates seeking a balanced lifestyle with modern amenities and a convenient location. The district is suitable for global nomads, digital nomads, young couples and artists seeking a lively atmosphere with peaceful residential areas, culturally rich areas, reasonably priced accommodations, and a range of recreational activities. We highly recommend the district for foreign families because of the availability of good international schools, spacious accommodations, and recreational facilities. Expats generally do not require a vehicle to thrive in the district due to its excellent public transportation and pedestrian-friendly layout.

Wieden “4th District - The Market District”

Wieden, located south of Vienna's city center, is a charming neighborhood with a rich history. Expatriates can explore its historic streets, visiting cultural sites, and enjoying local cafes. Foreigners can expect a well-preserved infrastructure with historic buildings and modern facilities. The atmosphere of Wieden is hip and dynamic, characterized by the presence of the vibrant Naschmarkt, a bustling food and flea market.

What type of accommodation can you find in Wieden?

The most common type of accommodation in Wieden ranges from mid-level to premium. The residential areas are spread throughout the district, with prominent locations including the area around Nikolsdorf and Margaretenstraße. Apartments typically offer one to three bedrooms, with an average size of around 50 to 150 square meters. Alternative housing options such as shared apartments are also available within the area.

Expats in search of a peaceful area can look for accommodations in the western part of the district, along the Belvederegasse road. On the other hand, expatriates seeking vibrant surroundings can explore the Karlsplatz area, known for its cultural events and bustling markets. The area boasts a variety of facilities, including supermarkets, hospitals, and healthcare centers. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, including trams and buses, offering easy access to other parts of the city.

What to do in Wieden?

Expatriates who are into grand architecture and spiritual pursuit can visit the St. Charles's Church, showcasing elegant design. We recommend expatriates to visit the renowned Belvedere Palace, housing an impressive collection of Austrian art and a scenic garden. We recommend expatriates to explore the Naschmarkt, known for its diverse culinary offerings. Expatriates pursuing postgraduate degrees can look into  Vienna School of International Studies, offering language mastery courses.

Who is Wieden best for?

We recommend Wieden for a broad range of expatriates, catering to families, couples, and global nomads. The neighborhood suits those seeking an active urban lifestyle, spacious accommodation, modern amenities and convenient location. We recommend families seeking an international school for grade schoolers to look into districts, such as Leopoldstadt and Döbling. A vehicle is not needed because the district is well-connected and transportation options are reliable.

Alsergrund “9th District - The Intellectual District”

Alsergrund, located in the northern part of Vienna, is a picturesque district with a rich historical origin. Expats in this district can engage in various activities, from exploring scenic landmarks to enjoying historical restaurants. Foreigners can anticipate a well-developed neighborhood with robust infrastructure featuring modern residential quarters, commercial establishments, modern amenities, and recreational spaces. The district's atmosphere is characterized by its intellectual and artistic vibe, with Sigmund Freud's former residence being one of its notable trademarks.

What type of accommodation can you find in Alsergrund?

Accommodation options in Alsergrund cater to a diverse range of budgets, ranging from entry-level to high-end choices. The residential areas are predominantly situated near the University of Vienna and within Thurygrund neighborhood. Apartments typically offer one to three bedrooms and range in size from 40 to 100 square meters. Additionally, alternative residential options such as serviced apartments and studios are available along Alserbachstrasse road.

We recommend expatriates seeking a peaceful environment to look for an apartment in the Thurygrund neighborhood. Expats desiring a livelier area are advised to look for accommodation near Sigmund Freud Park and University of Vienna. The district offers essential facilities like supermarkets, medical centers, and pharmacies. The district is well-connected by public transportation, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn subway system.

What to do in Alsergrund?

Alsergrund is home to the Sigmund Freud Museum, offering insights into the life and work of the renowned psychologist. We recommend expatriates visit the picturesque Palais Liechtenstein and experience the local cuisine at Griechenbeisl, one of Vienna's oldest restaurants. We recommend that expats who are into preserving the environment visit Spittelau incinerator, an iconic plant known for its colorful architecture. We highly recommend university level expatriates to go to the University of Vienna, offering international programs suitable for expatriates. 

Who is Alsergrund best for?

We recommend Alsergrund for expatriates seeking a scenic environment, proximity to intellectual institutions, and a balanced district. The neighborhood is suitable for digital nomads, and couples looking for reasonably priced accommodation, various recreational activities, and modern amenities. We highly recommend the area for expat families with university-level children because of the quality educational institution, peaceful living quarters, and abundant green spaces. We do not recommend owning a vehicle because the area boasts a central location and accessibility to public transportation options.

Döbling “19th District - The Family District”

Döbling, located to the northwest of the city center, is a picturesque district known for its peaceful ambiance and green surroundings. Expatriates in the area can explore the scenic vineyards, indulge in outdoor activities, and embrace the natural beauty of the area. Foreigners in the area benefit from a well-connected neighborhood with modern amenities and a range of accommodation options. The atmosphere in Döbling is elegant and relaxing, with its trademark being the lush Vienna Woods.

What type of accommodation can you find in Döbling?

The most common type of accommodation in Döbling ranges from mid-level to upscale apartments and houses. The residential areas are dispersed across the district, with notable clusters around Grinzing and Nussdorf. Apartments usually consist of two to four bedrooms, with sizes averaging between 70 to 150 square meters. Alternative residential options such as detached houses and townhouses range from 200 to 500 square meters, with three to six bedrooms.

Expatriates seeking a quiet residential environment to look into Nussdorf, the hilly areas around Cobenzl and Kahlenberg offering panoramic views and a peaceful environment. Foreigners seeking vibrant and cultural areas to explore the Grinzing village, known for its wine taverns and cultural events. The district offers essential facilities such as supermarkets, medical centers, police stations and educational institutions, ensuring residents have convenient access to daily necessities. The district benefits from an efficient public transportation network, including buses and trams, ensuring easy connectivity to the city.

What to do in Döbling?

Döbling boasts several noteworthy museums, including the Wien Museum Beethoven Museum, which offers insight into the famous generational composer’s life.  We recommend exploring the charming Grinzing, which boasts the impressive Heurigen tradition and features rustic wine taverns. Expats can also enjoy outdoor recreational activities like hiking in the Vienna Woods or visiting the Türkenschanzpark. Expatriates can send their children to the American International School Vienna, offering IB Diploma, holistic education, and modern facilities to foreign learners.

Who is Döbling best for?

We recommend Döbling to expatriates seeking a peaceful residential area, natural activities, and modern amenities. The area suits families, providing a balanced living experience, convenient transportation options, spacious accommodation, and a quality international school. Expats generally do not require a vehicle to enjoy the district's charm because of the reliable public transportation and proximity to amenities.