Vienna, Austria
Retire in Vienna, Austria
Last updated on Jan 01, 2023
Summary: Vienna, Austria is a popular destination for retirees due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and excellent public transportation system. The weather in Vienna is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 33°F in January to an average high of 73°F in July. There are several retirement communities in Vienna, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Vienna is typically around $400,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $500,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Vienna?
"Vienna is a wonderful city for anyone considering retirement and there is a thriving expat community, making it easy to find like-minded people to socialize with. With its abundance of parks, gardens and recreational facilities, there are plenty of leisurely activities to enjoy on warm days. From the Kunsthistorisches Museum to the Spanish Riding School and numerous other cultural attractions, there is something of interest for all visitiors. Vienna is particularly well known for its dramatic opera and excellent dining establishments, and the city is alive with energy at night, with plenty of clubs, discos, theaters and clubs to explore. From day trips to the nearby wineries to relaxing boat rides along the Danube, Vienna has something to offer all ages," said one retiree in living in Vienna, Austria, Austria.
Now Health InternationalThe insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
GET A QUOTE
What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retiring abroad can be a great experience, and Vienna is a wonderful city to do it in. Make sure you do your research to understand the local culture, language and cost of living. As a retiree in Vienna, the best advice is to make sure you familiarise yourself with the city and its culture before making the move, so you can make the most of your time here. Be sure to take advantage of all the cultural activities Vienna has to offer and enjoy the beauty of the city. Make sure you make connections in the community, and take time to explore the surrounding areas so that you can get a complete sense of what it means to retire in Vienna," commented one retiree living in Vienna, Austria, Austria.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Vienna?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Vienna is navigating the limited pension system offered by the Austrian government, as the process of accessing social security benefits can be troublesome for expats. With costs of living in Vienna much higher than other parts of the country, adjusting to a lower income can be a financial challenge for retirees. Furthermore, the cost of foreign health insurance, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions, can be expensive and complicated. Another challenge for retirees is the language barrier, as an understanding of German is essential for living in Vienna. Finally, becoming socially connected in a new country can be difficult, and so making friends and being able to explore the city requires effort and understanding," said one retiree in Vienna, Austria.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world. Presently the AGS Group has over 141 locations in more than 95 countries and has one of the largest networks in the international removals industry. We relocate 85,000 families every year. Free moving quote!
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world. Presently the AGS Group has over 141 locations in more than 95 countries and has one of the largest networks in the international removals industry. We relocate 85,000 families every year. Free moving quote!
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Vienna?
"The most rewarding aspects of retiring in Vienna are being able to take advantage of the city's rich cultural offerings. With music and art, opera and theater, and endless historical sites and landmarks, there is something to do and see every day. Vienna has a lively cafe culture and amazing restaurants, so there are plenty of great places to eat and socialize with friends and family. With proximity to the great outdoors, it is also easy to enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces. Vienna is a safe place to live and the healthcare system is highly rated, so retirees can feel confident about their health and security," explained a retiree in Vienna, Austria.
What are healthcare services like in Vienna?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Vienna. They wrote:
"Vienna is renowned for its high quality healthcare services. Residents of the city are well-serviced with a robust and accessible medical infrastructure. There is a wide range of health insurance schemes covering the cost of a variety of services, ranging from surgery and consultations to dental care and physiotherapy. Primary care is provided through a network of general practitioners coordinated by the Vienna Medical Association. The city also has many private hospitals and clinics offering specialized treatments, such as cancer care, infertility treatments and assisted reproductive technology. Additionally, Vienna boasts a number of world-class universities producing a highly trained and experienced pool of medical professionals," remarked one retiree in Vienna, Austria.
How do I meet people in Vienna?
When we asked people living in Vienna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Vienna can join a number of organizations to meet people and participate in activities, such as International Women's Club of Vienna, the American Women's Club of Vienna, and the Vienna International Club. Besides joining a club or organization, expats can seek out activities and events that are intended for English-speaking people and newcomers, such as Meetup Vienna and Expat in Vienna. Expats can also take language classes, attend meetups or social events organized by expat groups, or even join a local sports team. Finally, many Viennese coffee houses and restaurants provide excellent places for socializing and networking," said a retiree who moved to Vienna, Austria, Austria.
"Going to discos, opera or joining a hiking club are great ways to meet Austrians," said one retiree in Vienna .
What is life like in Vienna?
When we asked people living in Vienna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Vienna as an expat or digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a high quality of life in Vienna, with excellent public transportation, a wide range of international restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is also home to a large expat community, making it easy to meet new people and make friends. Vienna is a great place to live for those looking for a safe and secure environment, with a low cost of living and plenty of job opportunities," explained one retiree living in Vienna.
"Lives evolve around work during the weekdays and relaxation on the weekends, some people are also fans of the Rapid Austria and Wien soccer clubs," said one retiree in living in Vienna , Austria.
The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
What do I need to know before retiring in Vienna?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Vienna, they said:
"Retiring in Vienna can be a wonderful experience as it offers a variety of cultural activities, excellent healthcare, and a high quality of life. Before making the move, it is important to familiarize yourself with the country's retirement policies and visa requirements. It is also essential to check the health insurance coverage offered in the country and acquire the right documents, such as a European Health Insurance Card. When it comes to finding a place to live, it is important to research the available housing options and find an area that best suits your needs. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cost of living in Vienna, as it is higher than in other parts of Austria. Lastly, expats should work with a local immigration authority to ensure that all the required paperwork is in order for a successful and stress-free transition," said a person in Vienna, Austria.
"Try to accept the local way of life and learn the language. This is perhaps the country in the whole world where speaking the local language and imitating local customs makes the difference between being truly "in" and just getting by," remarked one retiree in Vienna .
What type of recreational activities are there in Vienna?
"Vienna offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The Prater is a large public park located in the city center, offering a variety of activities such as a ferris wheel, roller coasters, and a variety of other amusement park rides. The Donauinsel is a large recreational area located along the Danube River, offering a variety of activities such as swimming, biking, and beach volleyball. The Wienerwald, or Vienna Woods, is a large forested area located just outside the city, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The city also offers a variety of indoor recreational facilities, such as the Vienna State Opera, the Vienna Zoo, and the Vienna Natural History Museum. Additionally, Vienna is home to a variety of sports facilities, such as the Ernst Happel Stadium, the Vienna Ice Rink, and the Vienna Sports Hall," said one member in Vienna.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Vienna?
"In Vienna, expats can find a variety of grocery stores and shopping centers to meet their needs. One popular grocery store is Billa, which has multiple locations throughout the city and offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other food items. For more specialized items, expats can visit the Naschmarkt, a large outdoor market that offers a variety of international foods, spices, and other items. For more general shopping, expats can visit the Mariahilfer Strasse, a large shopping street with a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. Additionally, the Donauzentrum is a large shopping mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options," said one retiree in living in Vienna, Austria.
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Vienna?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Vienna?
- Will I be able to find a job in Vienna?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Vienna appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Vienna?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Vienna accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Vienna like?
- How are healthcare services Vienna?
- What are medical services in Vienna like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Vienna?
- What are emergency services like in Vienna?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Vienna?
- How are local medical facilities in Vienna?
- As a foreigner living in Vienna, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
