Cost of Living: Gothenburg vs Vienna (2026)
Sweden vs Austria — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 17% cheaper in Gothenburg ($1080/mo vs $1303/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Vienna (24°C vs 19°C).
- •Gothenburg scores higher on democracy (9.4 vs 8.3 / 10 EIU).
Gothenburg vs Vienna — Common Questions
Is Gothenburg cheaper than Vienna?▾
Gothenburg is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1080/month in Gothenburg vs $1303/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Gothenburg or Vienna?▾
Vienna is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Gothenburg has a rate of 1.10 per 100,000 and Vienna has 1.01 per 100,000.
Should I move to Gothenburg or Vienna?▾
Gothenburg and Vienna are almost suspiciously well-matched. Flip a coin. 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 Gothenburg or Vienna?▾
Gothenburg: Sweden Self-Employment Permit (complex process, 2 years (renewable)). Vienna: Austria Red-White-Red Card (complex process, 2 years (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Gothenburg or Vienna?▾
Vienna is warmer in summer (24°C vs 19°C). Gothenburg has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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