ViennavsZurich
Overall
💰+64.3%
Vienna is 64.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+111.1%
Housing is 111.1% higher
Dining
🍽️+84.6%
Restaurants 84.6% pricier
Groceries
🛒+71.4%
Food shopping 71.4% more
Comparing the cost of living between Vienna, Austria and Zurich, Switzerland reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vienna is more expensive than Zurich by approximately 64.3%. 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 Zurich by 53%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vienna's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Zurich is approximately CHF 2,800.
Dining out in Vienna offers significant savings compared to Zurich. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Vienna versus CHF 25 in Zurich.
Public transportation in Vienna is more affordable, with monthly passes at €51 compared to CHF 110 in Zurich.
Purchasing power in Zurich is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Vienna.
Grocery shopping in Vienna is more affordable by approximately 42%. 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 Zurich, the same lifestyle would cost around CHF 855. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,774 monthly in Vienna versus CHF 2,993 in Zurich. 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 Zurich, 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 Zurich 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
Zurich
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vienna more expensive than Zurich?
Yes, Vienna is approximately 64.3% more expensive than Zurich overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Vienna compared to Zurich?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.6x of your Zurich salary when living in Vienna. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Zurich, you'd need about $82,143 in Vienna for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vienna and Zurich?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 53%, 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?
Zurich offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Zurich provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vienna if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Zurich for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vienna vs Zurich?
In Vienna, a single person needs approximately €1,357 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €3,374. In Zurich, these figures are CHF 3,055 for singles and CHF 6,993 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vienna and Zurich 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 Zurich to maintain your lifestyle from Vienna
Calculate Salary Equivalence