ViennavsParis
Overall
💰+21.4%
Vienna is 21.4%more expensive
Rent
🏠+55.6%
Housing is 55.6% higher
Dining
🍽️+30.8%
Restaurants 30.8% pricier
Groceries
🛒+28.6%
Food shopping 28.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Vienna, Austria and Paris, France reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vienna is more expensive than Paris by approximately 21.4%. 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 Paris by 36%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vienna's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Paris is approximately €1,800.
Dining out in Vienna offers significant savings compared to Paris. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Vienna versus €15 in Paris.
Public transportation in Vienna is more affordable, with monthly passes at €51 compared to €86 in Paris.
Grocery shopping in Vienna is more affordable by approximately 22%. 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 Paris, the same lifestyle would cost around €558. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,774 monthly in Vienna versus €1,952 in Paris. 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 Paris, 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 Paris 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
Paris
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vienna more expensive than Paris?
Yes, Vienna is approximately 21.4% more expensive than Paris overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Vienna compared to Paris?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Paris salary when living in Vienna. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Paris, you'd need about $60,714 in Vienna for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vienna and Paris?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 36%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Vienna offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Paris provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vienna if you prioritize earning potential, or Paris for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vienna vs Paris?
In Vienna, a single person needs approximately €1,357 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €3,374. In Paris, these figures are €1,758 for singles and €4,452 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vienna and Paris 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Paris to maintain your lifestyle from Vienna
Calculate Salary Equivalence