ViennavsOslo
Overall
💰+35.7%
Vienna is 35.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠+44.4%
Housing is 44.4% higher
Dining
🍽️+53.8%
Restaurants 53.8% pricier
Groceries
🛒+35.7%
Food shopping 35.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Vienna, Austria and Oslo, Norway reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vienna is more expensive than Oslo by approximately 35.7%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Vienna are lower than in Oslo by 31%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vienna's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Oslo is approximately NOK 14,000.
Dining out in Vienna offers significant savings compared to Oslo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Vienna versus NOK 180 in Oslo.
Public transportation in Vienna is more affordable, with monthly passes at €51 compared to NOK 770 in Oslo.
Grocery shopping in Vienna is more affordable by approximately 26%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Vienna can expect to spend approximately €507 per month (excluding rent), while in Oslo, the same lifestyle would cost around NOK 5,944. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,774 monthly in Vienna versus NOK 20,804 in Oslo. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Vienna to Oslo, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Oslo to Vienna requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Vienna
Oslo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vienna more expensive than Oslo?
Yes, Vienna is approximately 35.7% more expensive than Oslo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Vienna compared to Oslo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Oslo salary when living in Vienna. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Oslo, you'd need about $67,857 in Vienna for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vienna and Oslo?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 35%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Oslo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Oslo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vienna if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Oslo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vienna vs Oslo?
In Vienna, a single person needs approximately €1,357 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €3,374. In Oslo, these figures are NOK 16,944 for singles and NOK 39,804 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vienna and Oslo in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Oslo to maintain your lifestyle from Vienna
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