The cost of living in Austria for a single person is approximately €1,000–€1,100 (₹1.10L–₹1.21L) per month, excluding rent. A family of four may spend around €3,500–€3,800 (₹3.85L–₹4.18L) per month, excluding rent. Housing is one of the largest expenses, and the overall budget can vary depending on the city, accommodation type, and lifestyle.
Housing is one of the largest expenses for students in Austria. Current rental estimates show that a 1-bedroom apartment costs around €550–€1,400 (₹59,950–₹1.53L) per month, depending on whether it is located inside or outside the city center. A 3-bedroom apartment can cost approximately €900–€2,500 (₹98,100–₹2.73L) per month. Costs are generally higher in cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.
Cost of Living in Austria by Profile
The monthly budget required in Austria varies according to the type of resident and lifestyle. Students generally spend less than working professionals or families because they may use student accommodation, university facilities, and student discounts.
Profile
Estimated Monthly Budget
INR Equivalent
International Student
€1,000–€1,300
INR 1.10L–1.43L
Student in Shared Housing
€950–€1,200
INR 1.05L–1.32L
Single Person
€1,000–€1,100
INR 1.10L–1.21L
Working Professional
€1,500–€2,200
INR 1.65L–2.42L
Couple
€2,400–€3,500
INR 2.64L–3.85L
Source: Numbeo
These are planning estimates rather than fixed spending limits. Students living in Vienna or other expensive cities may need a higher budget, while shared housing and regional cities can help reduce monthly expenses.
Cost of Living in Austria by Cities
The cost of living varies between Austrian cities. Innsbruck currently has the highest Cost of Living Index among the major cities listed by Numbeo, followed by Vienna and Graz. Villach and Linz generally have lower overall cost and rent indices.
City
Cost of Living Index
Estimated Monthly Cost (Excluding Rent)
Innsbruck
77.3
€1,100–€1,200 (INR 1.21L–1.32L)
Vienna
75.9
€1,050–€1,150 (INR 1.16L–1.27L)
Graz
72.4
€1,000–€1,100 (INR 1.10L–1.21L)
Linz
69.9
€950–€1,050 (INR 1.05L–1.16L)
Villach
66.1
€900–€1,000 (INR 99K–1.10L)
Source: Numbeo
Accommodation Costs in Austria
Accommodation is one of the most important components of the cost of living in Austria for international students. Students can choose from student halls of residence, shared apartments, private studios, and one-bedroom apartments.
Austria does not have a strong tradition of automatically allocated on-campus housing, so students generally need to arrange accommodation separately.
Accommodation Type
Monthly Rent
1 Bedroom Apartment – City Centre
€640–€1,400 (INR 69,760–1.53L)
1 Bedroom Apartment – Outside City Centre
€550–€1,000 (INR 59,950–1.09L)
3 Bedroom Apartment – City Centre
€1,005–€2,500 (INR 1.10L–2.73L)
3 Bedroom Apartment – Outside City Centre
€900–€1,800 (INR 98,100–1.96L)
Source: Numbeo. Note: Rental costs vary by city, neighborhood, apartment size, and amenities. Major cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck may have higher rents, while smaller cities can offer more affordable options.
Monthly Food and Grocery Expenses in Austria
Food is another major component of the monthly budget. Students can reduce food costs by cooking at home, shopping at discount supermarkets, and using university cafeterias. Students can also look for discounts in supermarkets and student cafeterias which can help them manage food spending.
Eating Out Costs in Austria
According to current Numbeo data, eating out in Austria can vary depending on the restaurant and location. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €11–€25 (INR 1,199–2,725), while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately €50–€100 (INR 5,450–10,900).
Other common eating-out expenses include:
Fast-food combo: €10–€13 (INR 1,090–1,417)
Cappuccino: €3–€6.50 (INR 327–709)
Soft drink: €2.50–€4 (INR 273–436)
Bottled water: €2–€4 (INR 218–436)
Domestic draft beer: €4–€6 (INR 436–654)
Imported beer: €3.95–€6 (INR 430–654)
Common Grocery Items in Austria
Grocery Item
Approximate Cost
Milk (1 litre)
€1.10–€2 (INR 120–218)
Bread (500 g)
€1.29–€4 (INR 141–436)
Rice (1 kg)
€1.19–€4 (INR 130–436)
Eggs (12)
€2.80–€5.40 (INR 305–589)
Local Cheese (1 kg)
€8.76–€30 (INR 955–3,270)
Chicken Fillets (1 kg)
€6.50–€18 (INR 709–1,962)
Beef (1 kg)
€13–€28 (INR 1,417–3,052)
Apples (1 kg)
€1.50–€3.79 (INR 164–413)
Bananas (1 kg)
€1.60–€3 (INR 174–327)
Oranges (1 kg)
€1.74–€4 (INR 190–436)
Tomatoes (1 kg)
€1.69–€7 (INR 184–763)
Potatoes (1 kg)
€0.90–€3 (INR 98–327)
Onions (1 kg)
€0.99–€3 (INR 108–327)
Lettuce (1 head)
€1.19–€2 (INR 130–218)
Source: Numbeo
Indian students may find some familiar ingredients more expensive, particularly imported products. Buying local produce, comparing supermarkets, and cooking at home can help keep the food cost in Austria manageable.
Transportation Costs in Austria
Austria has extensive public transportation networks, making buses, trams, trains, and metro services practical options for students. Public transport costs vary between cities and ticket types.
Transport Type
Cost
One-Way Local Transport
€2.40–€3.30 (INR 262–360)
Monthly Public Transport Pass
€35–€69 (INR 3,815–7,521)
Taxi Start Fare
€4–€10 (INR 436–1,090)
Taxi per km
€1.50–€2.50 (INR 164–273)
Taxi Waiting, 1 hour
€30–€40 (INR 3,270–4,360)
Gasoline, 1 litre
€1.50–€1.75 (INR 164–191)
Source: Numbeo.
Healthcare and Health Insurance Costs in Austria
Healthcare and insurance should be included when planning the cost of living in Austria for international students. International students need health insurance that meets the requirements for their stay.
For eligible students, the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) student self-insurance premium is €78.84 (INR 8,594) per month in 2026. OeAD notes that students must meet the applicable conditions, including residence and enrollment requirements.
Healthcare / Insurance Expense
Approximate Cost
Student Health Insurance
€78.84/month (INR 8,594)
Doctor/Clinic Visit
€20–€50 (INR 2,180–5,450)
Prescription Medicines
€5–€30 (INR 545–3,270)
Dental Treatment
€50–€150 (INR 5,450–16,350)
Private Health Insurance
€50–€150/month (INR 5,450–16,350)
Students should verify their individual insurance status and coverage before arrival. Health insurance is also part of the documentation required for the Austrian student residence permit.
Utilities and Internet Costs in Austria
Students renting private accommodation may need to budget separately for electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage collection, mobile services, and internet.
Utility
Monthly Cost
Basic Utilities – 85 m² Apartment
€220–€500 (INR 23,980–54,500)
Mobile Phone Plan
€9.90–€29.90 (INR 1,079–3,259)
Broadband Internet
€22–€45 (INR 2,398–4,905)
Source: Numbeo
Utility costs can vary considerably depending on the size of the apartment, energy usage, season, and whether some charges are already included in the rent.
Leisure and Miscellaneous Costs in Austria
International students may also spend money on fitness, movies, sports, clothing, social activities, and personal interests. These expenses are discretionary and can be adjusted according to the student's monthly budget.
Activity / Item
Cost
Fitness Club Membership
€29–€60 (INR 3,161–6,540)
Cinema Ticket
€10–€18 (INR 1,090–1,962)
Tennis Court Rental
€15–€28 (INR 1,635–3,052)
Jeans
€50–€120 (INR 5,450–13,080)
Summer Dress
€20–€60 (INR 2,180–6,540)
Running Shoes
€50–€130 (INR 5,450–14,170)
Leather Business Shoes
€59–€200 (INR 6,431–21,800)
Source: Numbeo
Students can manage discretionary spending by using university facilities, taking advantage of eligible student concessions, and setting a monthly entertainment budget.
Education Costs for International Students in Austria
Tuition fees are separate from monthly living expenses. The amount depends on the university, study level, nationality, program, and institution.
Study Expense
Approximate Cost
Undergraduate Tuition – Third-Country Students
€751.92–€1,500/semester (INR 81,959–1.64L)
Postgraduate Tuition – Third-Country Students
€751.92–€1,500/semester (INR 81,959–1.64L)
ÖH + Student Accident Insurance
€25.20–€50.40/year (INR 2,747–5,494)
Annual Undergraduate Tuition
€1,503.84–€3,000/year (INR 1.64L–3.27L)
Annual Postgraduate Tuition
€1,503.84–€3,000/year (INR 1.64L–3.27L)
Books & Academic Materials
€100–€300/semester (INR 10,900–32,700)
Popular fields among international students include:
Engineering
Computer Science
Business and Management
Medicine
Biotechnology
Artificial Intelligence
Data Science
Students should check the official university website for the exact tuition and additional charges applicable to their program.
Cost of Living in Austria vs India
The cost of living in Austria vs India can differ significantly, particularly for housing, restaurants, groceries, and transportation. Current Numbeo data shows that many everyday expenses are higher in Austria than in India.
Category
Austria Cost
India Cost
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal
€10–€25 (INR 1,090–2,725)
INR 100–500
Meal for Two
€50–€110 (INR 5,450–11,990)
INR 650–3,000
Fast-Food Meal
€10–€13 (INR 1,090–1,417)
INR 300–500
Monthly Transport Pass
€35–€66.60 (INR 3,815–7,259)
INR 300–2,000
Milk (1 litre)
€1.10–€2 (INR 120–218)
INR 44–76
Eggs (12)
€2.64–€5.40 (INR 288–589)
INR 60–120
1BHK – City Centre
€620–€1,300 (INR 67,580–1.42L)
INR 7K–61.85K
Basic Utilities
€220–€500 (INR 23,980–54,500)
INR 2K–8K
Source: Numbeo
For Indian students, accommodation is likely to create the largest difference in monthly spending. Food costs can also be higher, especially when buying imported products or frequently eating out.
Budgeting Tips for Students and Expats in Austria
Planning the cost of living in Austria per month before arrival can help international students avoid unexpected expenses.
How to Save on Accommodation in Austria?
Apply for student residence accommodation early.
Compare student halls with private shared apartments.
Consider neighborhoods outside expensive city centers.
Share accommodation with other students.
Check whether utilities are included in the rent.
Understand deposits and additional charges before signing a rental agreement.
Compare the total monthly cost rather than advertised rent alone.
How to Save on Food?
Cook meals at home whenever possible.
Shop at discount supermarkets.
Use university cafeterias and Mensa facilities.
Compare prices between supermarkets and local markets.
Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Plan weekly meals and grocery lists.
Limit frequent restaurant and food-delivery spending.
How to Save on Transportation?
Use buses, trams, trains, and metro services.
Check the transport options available in your city.
Look for student fares and concessions.
Choose accommodation with convenient access to campus.
Walk or cycle for shorter journeys where practical.
Compare monthly passes with individual tickets.
How to Save on Entertainment?
Check student concessions before buying tickets.
Use university sports and recreational facilities.
Attend free campus activities.
Compare cinema and cultural event prices.
Set a monthly entertainment budget.
Take advantage of public parks and free outdoor activities.
Useful Budgeting Tools for Students in Austria
Students can use simple digital tools to monitor expenses and manage shared costs.
Google Sheets – Useful for creating a monthly study-abroad budget.
Splitwise – Helpful for splitting rent, groceries, and shared household expenses.
Money Manager – Can be used to categorize everyday spending.
XE Currency – Useful for monitoring EUR-INR exchange rates when planning transfers.
Students should verify the availability, fees, and functionality of financial services before relying on them for international payments.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Austria can be manageable for international students with proper planning. Accommodation usually takes up a significant part of the budget, while food, transportation, health insurance, utilities, and personal expenses make up the remaining monthly costs.
Students can reduce expenses by choosing shared accommodation, cooking at home, using public transport, and making use of student discounts. It is also important to keep separate funds for tuition fees, residence-related costs, deposits, and unexpected expenses. Comparing cities and planning a realistic cost of living in Austria per month before arrival can help students manage their finances better throughout their studies.
1. What is the cheapest way to live in Austria as a student?
The most affordable way to manage the cost of living in Austria for international students is to choose shared student accommodation, cook at home, use public transportation, and take advantage of student discounts. Comparing housing and grocery options can further reduce monthly expenses.
2. How much do utilities cost for students in Austria?
Utilities in Austria can include electricity, heating, water, waste collection, mobile services, and internet. For students, sharing accommodation can reduce the individual cost. Monthly utility expenses vary depending on the apartment size, location, consumption, and whether utilities are included in rent.
3. How much does food cost per month in Austria?
Food expenses depend on shopping and eating habits. Students who primarily cook at home can keep grocery spending relatively controlled, while frequent restaurant meals increase monthly costs. Buying groceries from supermarkets, choosing seasonal produce, and planning meals can help manage expenses.
4. What affects the cost of living in Austria per month?
The cost of living in Austria per month is influenced by accommodation, groceries, transportation, utilities, health insurance, leisure, and personal spending. Students living in shared accommodation and preparing their own meals can generally maintain a lower monthly budget.
5. Which expenses should Indian students plan for before moving to Austria?
The cost of living in Austria for Indian students includes more than regular monthly expenses. Students should also account for accommodation deposits, residence permit costs, travel, study materials, health insurance, and initial setup expenses. Planning these separately can make the overall budget easier to manage.
6. Is Austria a good option for students on a limited budget?
Austria can be suitable for students with a carefully planned budget. Choosing affordable accommodation, preparing meals at home, using public transportation, and taking advantage of student discounts can help control the average cost of living in Austria.
7. What are some unexpected expenses students may face in Austria?
Students may encounter one-time expenses such as rental deposits, household items, residence-related charges, winter clothing, and travel costs. These expenses are separate from regular living costs, so keeping an emergency fund is useful when estimating the cost of living in Austria for international students.
8. Can students work part-time to manage living expenses in Austria?
International students may be able to work part-time in Austria, subject to applicable work-permit and employment conditions. Part-time earnings can help with food, transportation, and personal expenses, but students should not rely entirely on employment to cover their average cost of living in Austria.
9. How can Indian students manage expenses in Austria?
Indian students can manage expenses by comparing accommodation options, sharing housing, preparing meals, using student transport benefits, shopping at budget supermarkets, and tracking monthly spending. These habits can make the cost of living in Austria for Indian students more manageable.
10. Does the city affect the cost of living in Austria?
Yes. The cost of living in Austria vs India can differ significantly, and expenses within Austria also vary by city. Cities such as Salzburg and Vienna generally have higher living costs, while cities such as Graz and Linz can offer comparatively lower expenses for accommodation and everyday needs. Indian students should compare rent, food, transport, and other expenses before choosing a city.
11. How much money should students keep as an emergency fund in Austria?
Students should ideally maintain savings equivalent to at least two to three months of essential expenses. This can help cover unexpected medical costs, travel, accommodation changes, or other emergencies without disrupting their regular budget. Having an emergency fund is especially useful when planning the overall cost of living in Austria.
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