Cost of Living: Bilbao vs Graz (2026)
Spain vs Austria — relocation comparison
The Short Version
- •Rent is 39% cheaper in Graz ($772/mo vs $1259/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Graz (25°C vs 25°C).
- •Street-level English is easier in Graz (74/100 vs 38/100).
Bilbao vs Graz — Common Questions
Is Bilbao cheaper than Graz?▾
Graz is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $772/month in Graz vs $1259/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bilbao or Graz?▾
Bilbao is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bilbao has a rate of 0.69 per 100,000 and Graz has 0.88 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bilbao or Graz?▾
Graz edges ahead 77 to 69. Bilbao 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 Bilbao or Graz without speaking the local language?▾
Graz is easier for street-level English (74/100) than Bilbao (38/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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