Cost of Living: Graz vs Milan (2026)
Austria vs Italy — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 56% cheaper in Graz ($772/mo vs $1737/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Milan (28°C vs 25°C).
- •Graz scores higher on democracy (8.3 vs 7.6 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Graz (74/100 vs 29/100).
Graz vs Milan — Common Questions
Is Graz cheaper than Milan?▾
Graz is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $772/month in Graz vs $1737/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Graz or Milan?▾
Milan is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Graz has a rate of 0.88 per 100,000 and Milan has 0.55 per 100,000.
Should I move to Graz or Milan?▾
Graz scores 77 to Milan's 66 on livability — the gap is real. Milan has its charms, but the numbers favor Graz. 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 Graz or Milan?▾
Graz: no specific remote work visa. Milan: Italy Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 1 year (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Graz or Milan?▾
Milan is warmer in summer (28°C vs 25°C). Graz has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Can I live in Graz or Milan without speaking the local language?▾
Graz is easier for street-level English (74/100) than Milan (29/100). 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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