Cost of Living: Frankfurt vs Vienna (2026)
Germany vs Austria — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 4% cheaper in Vienna ($1303/mo vs $1358/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Frankfurt (26°C vs 24°C).
- •Vienna is safer by homicide rate (1.0 vs 2.7 per 100k).
Frankfurt vs Vienna — Common Questions
Is Frankfurt cheaper than Vienna? ▾
Vienna is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1303/month in Vienna vs $1358/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Frankfurt or Vienna?▾
Vienna is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Frankfurt has a rate of 2.67 per 100,000 and Vienna has 1.01 per 100,000.
Should I move to Frankfurt or Vienna?▾
Vienna edges ahead 77 to 71. Frankfurt 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.
Is it easier to get residency in Frankfurt or Vienna?▾
Frankfurt: no specific remote work visa. Vienna: Austria Red-White-Red Card (complex process, 2 years (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
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