Accommodation in Vienna

Accommodation in Vienna is known for its high standards, so most expats will not be disappointed in their new home. Austria is a country of renters, since property prices in the country are high. This can make finding a rental property difficult, especially in Vienna, which is the country's capital. 

As public transport in Vienna is reliable and extensive, your lifestyle preferences and budget will be the biggest consideration when choosing a neighbourhood. 

Areas and suburbs in Vienna

Vienna is a well-planned city and is organised into 23 districts, the first being the city centre. Generally, the further one moves from Vienna's centre, the cheaper the property prices are.

Vienna has an efficient transportation system. You can essentially live anywhere and still keep your work commute to less than 30 minutes. Many young professionals who prefer being in the heart of the city will enjoy District 1 or the Innere Stadt. While the Innere Stadt is among Vienna's priciest areas, properties here often offer luxury amenities and beautiful historic facades. 

Families enjoy living in the suburbs further away from the city centre where there are larger properties, parks, and a selection of international schools. Some of the most popular suburban areas in Vienna include Währing and Döbling. 

Read our guide on the Best (and worst) Areas and Suburbs in Vienna to learn more about the different neighbourhoods in the city. 

Types of accommodation in Vienna 

Accommodation in Vienna is mostly apartments housed in multi-storey buildings. Older buildings have classic Viennese black wrought-iron balconies, and the interior is characterised by high ceilings and parquet floors. New buildings have more modern, flat facades and tend to have lower ceilings, new floors, and modern windows.

It's typical to find features like indoor heating and double glazing in Austrian homes. Regardless of where expats are from, many report finding homes in Vienna comfortable.

Shared accommodation is likely to be partly furnished, but most apartments in Vienna are unfurnished. There are several good furniture stores in Vienna, where new arrivals will find everything they need.

Finding accommodation in Vienna

Finding a suitable new home in Vienna can be challenging for new arrivals, as the city's property market can be difficult to navigate. 

While property portals and listings in local newspapers can be good sources, they are mostly in German. Therefore, we recommend using the services of a professional real-estate agent. While their services come at a cost (up to two months' worth of rent), they are equipped to find properties that meet expats' needs and lifestyle preferences.

You should note that it is easier to find rental properties during certain times of the year than others. September is the beginning of the academic year in Austria, and the influx of students to Vienna increases competition for rental properties.

Useful links

• ImmoScout24
• Ländle Anzeiger
• Housing Anywhere

Renting accommodation in Vienna

Most expats choose to rent accommodation rather than purchase property in Vienna. Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are available.

Making an application

Once you have found a property that meets your requirements, you will be expected to complete a detailed application form and provide evidence of your income and legal status in the country. In some cases, you may be asked for a reference from a previous landlord or a certificate indicating you have no outstanding rent due.

Leases, costs, and fees

Before signing a lease, it’s essential to understand exactly what the lease requires. Long-term contracts can be binding, and the idiosyncrasies of Viennese apartments can be intimidating. After a set period (usually a year), the tenant or landlord can end the lease by giving three months' notice.

The standard lease length is three years, and required deposits range from one to three months' worth of rent. The deposit is often refundable at the end of the lease term as long as there is no damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear. 

Utilities in Vienna

Generally, tenants are responsible for all their utility bills. But you may be offered the option of paying a flat fee each month to cover the utilities – this frequently works out to be more economical, especially in the winter months.

Read Accommodation in Austria for detailed information on rental processes and setting up utilities in the country. 

Electricity and gas

The electricity market in Austria is deregulated and the regional electricity and gas provider in the city is Wien Energie. Residents have the option to choose a private supplier for better rates. Still, it's typically easier to remain connected to the regional provider, especially as an expat, since you won't have to deal with the admin of changing providers. 

Water

Operating under the Municipality of Vienna, Wiener Wasser (also known as Magistrate Department 31) supplies and treats the city's drinking water. Water bills are sent out quarterly and are payable through an automatic debit, online or the Wiener Wasser office. 

Bins and recycling

The City of Vienna's Municipal Department 48 (MA 48) offers curbside collection of residual household and organic waste weekly, while recyclables are collected biweekly. If you live in an apartment building, you may have different waste sorting and collection schedules, so confirming the waste management process with your building manager or landlord is essential. 

Internet

Many of the internet service providers in Vienna offer fibre, DSL, and satellite connections. Most apartments often have internet infrastructure, simplifying the set-up process. Some of the most popular providers in Vienna include A1 Telekom Austria, Magenta, and Drei. 

Useful links

• Wien Energie
• Wiener Wasser
• City of Vienna – Waste Management
• A1 Telekom, Magenta, and Drei