Live and work in Austria
Austria is known for its stunning landscapes and nature that invite to outdoor adventures, from skiing in the Alps to hiking in picturesque valleys. But what else? And what is it like to live there?
Here we aim to provide you with a better understanding of what it would be like to actually live in this cool country.

Popular cities in Austria
Life in Austria
Moving to Austria offers a captivating blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a high quality of life. The country offers plenty of picturesque Alpine mountains, charming cities, and endless options of outdoor activities year-round.
Austria’s public transport system, healthcare, and education opportunities make it an attractive destination for young people and families. People should live in Austria for its dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. The vibrant cities like Vienna and Salzburg offer a thriving arts and music scene, exciting nightlife, and many cultural events.
Quick facts about working in Austria:
- Average working hours per week: 35.5 hours, 8 hours daily
- Typical working day: Monday to Friday from 8:00-9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Number of Vacation days: 30 daysÂ
- Commute: Mostly by bus and train
- Work culture:Â Relatively hierarchical and formal
Read more about Moving to Austria

Quick info about Austria
Typical food
Sachertorte (chocolate cake), Käsespätzle (Austria’s answer to macaroni and cheese), Erdäpfelgulasch (perfect for vegans), Chicken Paprikash (paprika chicken), Topfenknödel (Austrian dumplings)
Population
~8.96 million people
Location
Austria is located in East Central Eurupe and borders Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland. The capital city is Vienna.
Languages
German
Famous people
Arnold Schwarzeneggger, Mozart, Sigmund Freud
Currency
Euro (€)
Avg. working week
35.5 hours
7 to 8 hours daily
Healthcare
Austrian healthcare is ranked high and is paid for via mandatory social contributions.
Other countries nearby
FAQ
No, EU and EEA citizens can work in Austria for three months without work permit. If you stay for more than 90 days you need to register. You can read more about it here.
Talking about languages, the language barrier might be a challenge while moving to Austria. The national language is German, however Austrian German differs from German spoken in Germany, there are also slight differences depending on the region. English is spoken widely in business environments, however despite the fact that a lot of nationals can speak English, they are not really willing to use it, unless there is a real need.
For this reason, it’s good to know some basic German, for the beginning at least courtesies and numbers. You can start beforehand taking a course online or using an app for your phone where you can practise daily. The choice is big, paid or unpaid ones, different levels. Make it suitable for you and you will be able to learn even in a bus. For those interested in learning on-site, there are courses offered for expats already in Austria and you can find them for free or paid. Look for websites like this: https://www.actilingua.com/ and get to know more about what lessons look like.Â
And a good tip for the end, talk German on a daily basis! In a grocery store or in a library, foreigners will appreciate your effort for sure. Remember, practice makes perfect and it may also help you to make friends with Austrians easier.
The temperatures in Austria vary significantly depending on the region and season. In winter, especially in the Alpine areas, temperatures can drop well below freezing, with average lows around -5°C to -10°C. Summers are generally mild to warm, with average highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, with averages between 10°C to 20°C. Overall, Austria experiences a typical Central European climate with distinct seasons and temperature fluctuations throughout the year.
Austria has an extensive and efficient transportation system. The most common way to get around is by train, with ÖBB providing reliable connections between major cities and scenic routes through the Alps. Buses also cover smaller towns and rural areas. In cities like Vienna, Graz, and Salzburg, trams, buses, and metro systems offer convenient options. Renting a car is ideal for exploring remote areas and picturesque landscapes.
Healthcare in Austria is highly regarded for its quality and accessibility. The country provides a universal healthcare system, ensuring that all residents have access to medical services. It is funded through compulsory health insurance contributions and co-payments. Austrian healthcare facilities are well-equipped, and doctors are well-trained, making it a reliable and efficient system for residents and visitors alike.
Still not convinced about Austria?
Work culture in Austria has more formal and hierarchical characteristics, Austrians appreciate dialogue and cooperation, often with a consensus-driven approach, they value national businesses and often cooperate with local companies.
Austria’s central location within Europe allows for easy travel to neighbouring countries. The people are known for their welcoming nature and vibrant cultural scene, featuring classical music, art, and delicious cuisine. Austria’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices ensures a clean and green environment. Moreover, the country enjoys a high standard of safety, providing peace of mind for residents. Whether you seek adventure in the mountains, a rich cultural experience, or a comfortable and safe lifestyle, Austria offers a fulfilling and enchanting place to call home.
In Austria, it is very part of their culture the way they enjoy life (Gemutlichkeit), which also means the feeling of friendliness, warmth and happiness and this includes their way of socializing with other people, this is why it’s very common to socialize during outdoor events, so if you’re the extrovert type who likes to meet people around, coffee shops are perfectly fine to approach people and have a nice talk.
Embracing the Austrian lifestyle means enjoying a rich blend of tradition and modernity, making it an ideal destination for young minds seeking diverse experiences.