ViennavsStockholm
Overall
💰+21.4%
Vienna is 21.4%more expensive
Rent
🏠+33.3%
Housing is 33.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+30.8%
Restaurants 30.8% pricier
Groceries
🛒+14.3%
Food shopping 14.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Vienna, Austria and Stockholm, Sweden reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vienna is more expensive than Stockholm 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 Stockholm by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vienna's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Stockholm is approximately SEK 15,000.
Dining out in Vienna offers significant savings compared to Stockholm. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Vienna versus SEK 120 in Stockholm.
Public transportation in Vienna is more affordable, with monthly passes at €51 compared to SEK 970 in Stockholm.
Grocery shopping in Vienna is more affordable by approximately 13%. 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 Stockholm, the same lifestyle would cost around SEK 4,702. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,774 monthly in Vienna versus SEK 16,457 in Stockholm. 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 Stockholm, 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 Stockholm 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
Stockholm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vienna more expensive than Stockholm?
Yes, Vienna is approximately 21.4% more expensive than Stockholm overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Vienna compared to Stockholm?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Stockholm salary when living in Vienna. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Stockholm, you'd need about $60,714 in Vienna for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vienna and Stockholm?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 25%, 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?
Stockholm offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Stockholm provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vienna if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Stockholm for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vienna vs Stockholm?
In Vienna, a single person needs approximately €1,357 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €3,374. In Stockholm, these figures are SEK 15,702 for singles and SEK 34,457 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vienna and Stockholm 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 Stockholm to maintain your lifestyle from Vienna
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