Graz, Austria
Retire in Graz, Austria
Last updated on Feb 01, 2023
Summary: Graz, Austria is a popular destination for retirees due to its picturesque landscape, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its mild climate, with temperatures ranging from an average of 41°F in January to an average of 68°F in July. There are several retirement communities in Graz, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Graz is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $250,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Graz?
"Graz is a vibrant city surrounded by beautiful rural landscapes, making it an ideal place to retire. With a strong expat community, retirees in Graz can find support and a place to call home. The city offers a variety of cultural attractions, like museums, churches and libraries, as well as opportunities for recreational activities like hiking, biking and swimming in the rivers, lakes and nearby mountains. At night, retirees in Graz can enjoy diverse nightlife options, from pubs to traditional dinner-and-dance events, to a variety of live music, theater and comedy performances. The city also has some popular wine tasting and brewery tours to experience. All-in-all, Graz makes a great place to retire due to its diverse, active atmosphere and range of activities to enjoy," said a person in Graz, Austria.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retiring abroad can be a great way to experience a new culture and lifestyle. Retirees in Graz recommend doing research on the country you are considering to make sure it is the right fit for you. It is also important to consider the cost of living and the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, it is important to make sure you have a good support network in place, as it can be difficult to adjust to a new culture and lifestyle. Finally, it is important to make sure you have a plan for how you will spend your time in retirement, as this can help you make the most of your new life abroad," said a retiree who moved to Graz, Austria.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Graz?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Graz is navigating the country's complex pension and retirement system. Understanding the different rules and regulations, as well as other aspects, can be daunting and time-consuming for those unfamiliar with the system. Additionally, the cost of living in Graz is higher than many other parts of Austria, which can present a challenge in terms of finances and budgeting. Finally, while the healthcare system in Austria is of a high quality, securing healthcare or related services in Graz, especially for those not fluent in German, can be a challenge," explained one retiree living in Graz, Austria.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Graz?
"Retiring in Graz can bring many rewards. Enjoy the city's beauty and cultural attractions with the mild climate and stunning scenery of the surrounding countryside. Relax in one of the many public parks or artfully designed gardens. Take advantage of the city's great recreational opportunities, including cycling, hiking and golf. Explore the culinary options, from traditional Austrian cuisine to innovative dishes. Enjoy the lively and vibrant nightlife. Last but not least, benefit from the city's friendly, welcoming locals, who often go out of their way to make visiting retirees feel at home," said a retiree who moved to Graz, Austria, Austria.
What are healthcare services like in Graz?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Graz. They wrote:
"Graz offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a variety of specialized clinics and medical centers. Graz also has a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, the city has a number of health insurance providers, allowing citizens to access the healthcare services they need. Graz also has a number of health promotion initiatives, such as health education programs and health screenings, to help citizens stay healthy," said a retiree who moved to Graz, Austria.
How do I meet people in Graz?
When we asked people living in Graz about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats living in Graz can join a variety of clubs and activities offered in the city. Popular clubs for expats include hiking groups, arts clubs, and language clubs. Popular activities include attending music festivals and special events in Graz. Expats can also meet people by visiting bars, cafes, and restaurants, as well as joining Meetup groups or attending expat events. Expats may also find it useful to introduce themselves to their neighbors, attend church services, or join a gym or local sports team," explained one retiree living in Graz, Austria.
What is life like in Graz?
When we asked people living in Graz what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Graz is a great destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its historic old town to its modern art galleries and museums. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces, as well as its lively nightlife and excellent restaurants. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transport links to the rest of Austria and beyond. Graz is a great place to live for those looking for a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the local culture," said one retiree in Graz.
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What do I need to know before retiring in Graz?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Graz, they said:
"Graz is a vibrant and historic city located in the Styrian region of Austria. It offers a great quality of life and plenty of cultural attractions and outdoor activities for retirees. There are a variety of neighborhoods available for expats in Graz and many different types of housing to choose from. Expats should make sure to research the housing market and cost of living before relocating. It is also important to plan out how to finance retirement living in Graz, as taxation and pension plans may be different from the expats’ country of origin. Additionally, expats should understand the local healthcare system and make sure to secure comprehensive medical coverage. Furthermore, Graz has a variety of language schools offering courses in German, so expats may want to take advantage of local resources and prepare for language barriers prior to their move," explained one retiree living in Graz, Austria.
What type of recreational activities are there in Graz?
"Graz is home to a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The Schlossberg, or Castle Hill, is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Murinsel, an artificial island in the Mur River, is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city. The Grazer Freizeitzentrum, or Graz Recreation Center, is a large park with a variety of activities, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a playground. The Grazer Zoo is a great place to see a variety of animals, and the Grazer Kunsthaus, or Graz Art House, is a great place to explore the city's art and culture. Finally, the Grazer Stadtpark, or Graz City Park, is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of the city," explained one member in Graz.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Graz?
"Graz is home to a variety of stores and markets where expats can buy groceries and do other shopping. The main shopping area is located in the city center, where you can find the Herrengasse Shopping Center, which offers a variety of stores, including a supermarket, clothing stores, and more. Additionally, the Jakominiplatz Shopping Center is located nearby and offers a variety of stores, including a supermarket, clothing stores, and more. For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, the Grazer Marktplatz is a great option, offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. Additionally, the Grazer Marktplatz also offers a variety of specialty stores, such as bakeries, butchers, and more. Finally, the Grazer Hauptplatz is a great option for those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, offering a variety of stores, including a supermarket, clothing stores, and more," said one member in Graz.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
