Austria: A Friendly Country?

Austria has been described as unfriendly by expats, with some surveys ranking it as the worst country in the world for local friendliness. However, other frequent visitors to the country have expressed confusion at this characterisation, citing helpfulness and courtesy as common traits among Austrians.

While Austria ranks highly in the Quality of Life Index, it consistently scores poorly for Ease of Settling In, with many expats finding it challenging to form local friendships and adapt to the local culture. Language barriers and a reputation for directness among Austrians are often cited as contributing factors.

Racism in Austria, particularly against those from Eastern European countries, Africa, and West Asia, has also been noted as a potential factor in the country's unfriendly reputation. However, others have argued that Austrians are simply more direct and that their humour can be subtle and convoluted, which may be misinterpreted by those from other cultural backgrounds.

Austrians are considered the unfriendliest locals in the world

Austria's ranking as the least friendly country may be due to a combination of factors, including cultural differences, directness, and a language barrier. Some expats have reported experiencing racism and feeling unwelcome in the country. Making friends with locals can be challenging, and the country ranks low for ease of settling in.

However, it's important to note that Austria offers a high quality of life, ranking 5th in the Quality of Life Index. The country performs well in terms of travel options, healthcare, and environmental commitment. Expats also appreciate the affordability and accessibility of public transportation and healthcare services.

While Austria may have room for improvement in terms of local friendliness, it still has much to offer in other aspects of life. The mixed reviews suggest that cultural differences and expectations may play a significant role in how expats perceive the country.

One expat commented, ""I am finding it very hard to make friends and to create long-lasting friendships. I also find it very difficult to meet people." Another expat shared, ""I have had many a bizarre experience [in Austria], certainly, but none that I would call the least bit unfriendly."

Austrians are racist, especially towards those from Eastern Europe

Austrians are considered the unfriendliest locals worldwide, both in general and towards foreign residents in particular. More than two in five expats find that the locals are particularly unfriendly towards foreign residents, and 33% do not feel welcome in Austria. This could be because Austrians are racist, especially towards those from Eastern Europe.

Austria has ended up among the bottom 10 of the Ease of Settling In Index in nine out of the past ten years. In the Expat Insider 2023 survey, Austria comes 42nd out of 53 destinations, making it into the top 5 for the Quality of Life Index but placing last (53rd) for Local Friendliness.

One source states that Austrians are mostly racist against Muslims and migrants from South and Eastern Europe, as those are a bigger group of migrants. Another source mentions that there is a certain aspect of racism in Austria, especially against Eastern European countries. This is mostly with older generations but not exclusively.

Austria has no identifiable action plan against racism, with the government actively promoting anti-Muslim discourse and policies. Racial profiling of Black and Muslim people, as well as of the refugee population in Austria, has been rising.

Austrians are direct, which can be perceived as rude

In Austrian culture, people tend to be straightforward and blunt in their communication. They say what they think and feel without softening their words or beating around the bush. This directness can be seen as refreshing and honest by some, but it can also come across as harsh or impolite to those who are not used to it.

For example, an Austrian might tell you directly that they disagree with your opinion or that they don't like something you did. They might also be very direct in asking questions or giving instructions. This can be a bit of a culture shock to people from cultures where saving face and being polite are highly valued.

Additionally, Austrians may be less likely to use sarcasm or irony, which are often used to soften direct statements in other cultures. This can lead to misunderstandings, as people from other cultures may misinterpret their direct comments as rude or impolite.

It's important to note that directness does not necessarily equate to rudeness. Austrians may simply value honesty and efficiency in their communication. However, for expats or visitors from other cultures, especially those where indirect communication is the norm, adjusting to Austrian directness can take some time and effort.

To avoid misunderstandings and hurt feelings, it's crucial to recognize cultural differences in communication styles. Expats in Austria may need to adapt to the direct communication style of Austrians, while Austrians interacting with people from other cultures may need to be more mindful of how their directness is perceived.

Austrians are unfriendly towards foreign residents

Austrians are considered the unfriendliest locals in the world towards foreign residents. In the Expat Insider 2023 survey, Austria came last (53rd) for local friendliness, with more than two in five expats (43%) finding that Austrians are particularly unfriendly towards foreign residents, compared to 18% globally. This may be due to a language barrier, as German is difficult to learn and 45% of expats say it is hard to live in Austria without local language skills.

Some sources suggest that Austrians are simply direct, rather than unfriendly. However, this directness can be perceived as rude, especially by people from Asian cultures, who may mistake Austrian humour and banter for offence. One source suggests that Austrians are racist, especially towards people from Eastern European countries, Africa, and Western Asia. Another source suggests that Austrians are unfriendly towards tourists, but friendly towards expats.

Vienna, in particular, is consistently ranked as the most unfriendly city in the world by expats living there. However, some people suggest that Austrians are simply tired of other people and that their unfriendliness is not personal.

Austria is a beautiful yet lonely place for expats

Making friends with Austrians can be challenging, and many expats report feeling unwelcome in the country. The local culture can be difficult to adjust to, and language barriers make it hard to connect with locals. German is a tough language to learn, and without proficiency in the language, it is challenging to navigate daily life in Austria. This is further compounded by a lack of cashless payment options, which can be inconvenient for those who are not familiar with the local currency.

Racism is also prevalent in Austria, particularly against those from Eastern European countries, Africa, and West Asia. People of Asian descent have also reported experiencing racism and feeling that racist attitudes towards them are tolerated. However, it is important to note that these attitudes are not universal, and some Austrians actively call out and criticise racism when they encounter it.

Despite these challenges, Austria has much to offer in terms of quality of life. The country boasts excellent healthcare, travel options, and a clean, safe environment. Expats appreciate the affordability and accessibility of public transportation, as well as the abundant travel opportunities within Austria and to neighbouring countries. The urban environment is highly rated, and expats enjoy the availability of green spaces and recreational activities.

Austria's unique culture and traditions, including its famous coffee houses, cuisine, and music, also contribute to its appeal. The country is well-known for its delicious pastries, vibrant cities, and picturesque countryside. Overall, while Austria may present challenges for expats in terms of settling in and making local friends, it offers a high quality of life and a rich cultural experience for those who are willing to persevere.

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