Cost of Living: Bern vs Graz (2026)
Switzerland vs Austria — relocation comparison
The Short Version
- •Rent is 61% cheaper in Graz ($772/mo vs $1960/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Graz (25°C vs 24°C).
- •Bern scores higher on democracy (9.3 vs 8.3 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Graz (74/100 vs 51/100).
Bern vs Graz — Common Questions
Is Bern cheaper than Graz?▾
Graz is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $772/month in Graz vs $1960/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bern or Graz?▾
Bern is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bern has a rate of 0.60 per 100,000 and Graz has 0.88 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bern or Graz?▾
Graz edges ahead 77 to 69. Bern isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Can I live in Bern or Graz without speaking the local language?▾
Graz is easier for street-level English (74/100) than Bern (51/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
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