Cost of Living: Graz vs Saint Petersburg (2026)
Austria vs Russia — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 15% cheaper in Graz ($772/mo vs $908/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Graz (25°C vs 21°C).
- •Graz is safer by homicide rate (0.9 vs 7.8 per 100k).
- •Graz scores higher on democracy (8.3 vs 2.2 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Graz (74/100 vs 32/100).
Graz vs Saint Petersburg — Common Questions
Is Graz cheaper than Saint Petersburg?▾
Graz is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $772/month in Graz vs $908/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Graz or Saint Petersburg?▾
Graz is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Graz has a rate of 0.88 per 100,000 and Saint Petersburg has 7.82 per 100,000.
Should I move to Graz or Saint Petersburg?▾
Graz scores 77 to Saint Petersburg's 46 on livability — the gap is real. Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg?▾
Graz: no specific remote work visa. Saint Petersburg: Russia HQS Work Permit (ВКС) (moderate requirements, Up to 3 years (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Graz or Saint Petersburg?▾
Graz is warmer in summer (25°C vs 21°C). Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg without speaking the local language?▾
Graz is easier for street-level English (74/100) than Saint Petersburg (32/100). 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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