Exploring Germany Vs Austria: Which Country To Visit?

Germany or Austria? Both countries are neighbours and share a language, but they differ in many ways. Germany is larger and flatter, while Austria is known for its breathtaking natural scenery. Austria has a more laid-back atmosphere, while Germany is more efficient and has better transportation. Germany has more big cities, but Austria's capital, Vienna, is renowned for its music, food, and culture. Both countries offer beautiful landscapes, unique cultures, and a range of attractions, making it a challenging choice for travellers.

Cost of living

Austria is considered one of the best countries in the world to live in, ranking highly for its quality of life. However, it is also quite expensive. The average cost of living in Austria is 10% more than in Germany, and a week in Austria can cost around €822 per person, compared to €849 in Germany.

The cost of restaurants and groceries in Austria is higher than in Germany. A basic meal with a drink at an inexpensive restaurant will cost 3.8% more in Austria, and groceries are 8.9% more expensive.

Transportation costs are also higher in Austria. A monthly public transit pass will cost 9.4% more, and a taxi trip in the downtown area is 5.2% more expensive.

Housing costs are slightly higher in Germany, with rent prices 1% higher. However, utility costs for a 700 sq ft apartment (including electric, gas, water, and heating) are 3.2% more expensive in Austria.

Other costs, such as entertainment, sports, and clothing, are also higher in Austria. A domestic beer will cost 2% more, and a monthly gym membership is 0.9% more expensive.

Overall, Austria is 3.7% more expensive than Germany, and the local purchasing power in Germany is 20.3% higher. However, it is important to note that prices can vary significantly between different cities in both countries, and your salary will be adjusted accordingly.

Student life

When it comes to student life, there are several factors to consider when choosing between Austria and Germany. Both countries offer a high standard of living, with excellent health systems and low crime rates. However, there are some key differences that may influence your decision.

One important consideration is the language barrier. While English-taught programs are available in Germany, most classes in Austria are taught in German. This means that proficiency in German is essential for studying in Austria, whereas Germany may be more accessible to international students who don't speak the language.

The cost of living is another factor to keep in mind. Austria has a slightly higher cost of living than Germany, with monthly living costs estimated at around €1,100 in Austria compared to €934 in Germany. However, rental properties tend to be cheaper in Austria, with a one-bedroom apartment in Vienna costing approximately €400 per month, compared to €700 in Berlin.

The university admission rate is also worth considering. The admission rate to universities in Austria is lower than in Germany, and some top universities in Austria do not publicly disclose their admission rates. As a result, your chances of getting accepted into a German university may be higher due to the larger number of universities and colleges in the country.

Additionally, the number of international students in each country differs significantly. Austria welcomes approximately 100,000 international students annually, while Germany hosts more than triple that number, with around 350,000 international students. As a result, you may encounter fewer international students in Austria and have a more local experience. However, if you're seeking a more diverse and cosmopolitan environment, Germany may be a better option.

Both countries offer the opportunity to work while studying, but there are some differences in the regulations. In Austria, only international students from certain nationalities are permitted to work, with limits on the number of hours they can work per week. In Germany, on the other hand, all international students are allowed to work part-time for 240 days or full-time for 120 days per year.

Lastly, the social and cultural aspects of each country may play a role in your decision. Austria is known for its beautiful mountains, classical music, and historical landmarks. The country has a strong focus on family values and is predominately Catholic, with most shops and businesses closed on Sundays. Austria also offers a relaxed university environment, with free education and no limit on the length of your degree. Socializing in Austria often revolves around enjoying time with friends and family, and binge drinking is less common compared to some other countries.

Germany, on the other hand, offers big cities and more professional opportunities. The country is larger and more diverse, with varying cultures and traditions across different regions. While some parts of Germany may be similar to Austria, such as the traditional Bavaria region, cities like Berlin offer a modern, international, and party-loving atmosphere. Germans are generally known for their punctuality, hardworking nature, and honesty.

In conclusion, both Austria and Germany offer unique student life experiences. Austria may be preferable if you seek a more traditional, relaxed, and culturally rich environment, while Germany could be a better choice for those seeking more diverse urban experiences and greater flexibility in terms of language and employment opportunities. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, budget, and study goals.

Job opportunities

When it comes to job opportunities, there are a few key differences between Austria and Germany. Both countries are German-speaking with similar cultures and a high standard of living. However, Austria is a smaller country with a strong focus on tradition and a healthy work-life balance. In contrast, Germany offers more diverse professional opportunities in its bigger cities.

Job Market in Austria

Austria has a variety of job opportunities, with 45,000+ jobs advertised on LinkedIn. The country values qualifications and traditional application processes. The Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) offers several web tools to help job seekers, including an orientation tool and an online platform for young career starters. The WORK in AUSTRIA TALENT HUB is another useful resource, where you can create a profile with a CV in German and English to attract Austrian companies.

The working languages in Austrian companies are mainly German and sometimes English, so learning German before starting your job search is recommended. Austrians value punctuality and formality, so it is important to be prepared and well-researched for interviews, which are usually conducted in German.

Job Market in Germany

Germany offers a wide range of job opportunities, with a focus on skilled workers in various sectors. The Federal Employment Agency (BA) is a valuable resource for job seekers, providing comprehensive advisory services and job listings. Germany also has a diverse range of private recruitment agencies that can assist in finding a job that suits your qualifications and preferences.

Germany has a similar application process to Austria, with a focus on qualifications and traditional application documents. The BA's website BERUFENET provides detailed information on professional fields and job titles in Germany. While German is the primary language of communication, some positions may accept English applications, particularly in international companies or those based in diverse cities like Berlin.

Visa Options

If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you will need a visa to work in either Austria or Germany. Both countries offer different types of work permits, student visas, graduate visas, and options for self-employment or starting a business. Austria offers restricted, standard, and unrestricted work permits, while Germany has a job seeker permit for recent graduates, internship visas, and various other options.

Income and Taxes

When considering income and taxes, it is important to look at the tax system in each country, as this will impact your take-home pay. Germany generally has a slightly higher tax rate, with employees paying around 36-38% of their gross earnings in taxes and social insurance contributions. In Austria, you can expect to pay around 30% of your gross earnings. However, Austria has a progressive income tax system, with higher tax brackets for higher earnings.

In conclusion, both Austria and Germany offer diverse job opportunities, with a focus on skilled workers and traditional application processes. Austria may be a better choice for those seeking a healthier work-life balance and a strong focus on tradition, while Germany offers more diverse professional opportunities in its bigger cities. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, career goals, and desired lifestyle.

Culture

Austria and Germany are neighbouring countries in Central Europe with a shared border of 818 kilometres. They have long held close cultural, political, economic, and familial ties. German is the official language of both countries, but there are variations in dialect and accent from region to region.

Language

German is the official language of both countries, but there are some differences in vocabulary and dialect. For example, in Austria, you might greet someone by saying "Moagn" (Good morning) instead of "Guten Morgen", as in Germany. Austrians also have different words for certain foods, such as "Palatschinken" for pancake and "Schlagobers" for whipped cream.

Communication Style

Austrians prefer direct and straightforward communication and questions. They tend to be more outgoing and cheerful than Germans, who are often more formal and distant upon first meeting. Austrians also tend to use the informal "du" when addressing others, whereas Germans prefer the more formal "Sie" to keep an emotional distance.

History and Culture

Both countries have a strong focus on family values and are considered traditional. However, Germans are more direct in their communication, while Austrians are seen as more reserved.

Germany was unified in 1871, ending a fragmented situation with 35 confederated states. From 1867 to 1918, Austria was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, led by the imperial Habsburg family. After World War I, both the German and Austro-Hungarian empires dissolved, and the countries emerged as republics. In 1938, Germany annexed Austria, marking the beginning of Germany's expansionist policies that led to World War II.

Food

Austria and Germany share similar styles of cuisine and have many dishes in common, such as Wiener Schnitzel, pretzels, and bratwurst. However, Austrian cuisine often incorporates notable influences from Eastern European and Italian cooking.

Education

Both countries offer free tuition at public universities for EU and non-EU students. However, students must pay a semester fee covering administrative costs, student union membership, and local public transportation. The admission rate to universities in Austria is much lower than in Germany, and top universities do not publicly disclose their admission rates.

Work Culture

Austrians tend to have more fluid decision-making processes in business, whereas Germans prefer clear hierarchical structures and strict decision-making processes. Austrians also blend their work and personal lives more than Germans, who keep them separate. Business meetings in Germany take place in designated rooms, while Austrians may meet for business lunches in cafes.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Austria is slightly higher than in Germany. The living cost in Austria is estimated at around €1,100 per month, compared to €934 per month in Germany. However, rental properties are lower in Austria, with a one-bedroom apartment in Vienna costing approximately €400 per month, compared to €700 in Berlin.

Language

German is the official language of both Austria and Germany, but there are some differences in the way it is spoken in each country. Austrian German is influenced by the Austro-Bavarian dialect and differs in vocabulary and grammar from German as spoken and written in Germany and Switzerland. German is the first language of around 97% to 98% of people in Austria, while in Germany, over 95% of the country speaks Standard German or a dialect of German as their first language.

Austria has a greater variety of languages than Germany, with Alemannic (Swiss German) and several minority languages also spoken. In Germany, recognised minority languages include North Frisian, Saterland Frisian, Upper and Lower Sorbian, Danish, Low German, and Romani.

Both countries have a wide range of dialects. In Austria, the main dialect outside Vorarlberg is Austro-Bavarian, with Central Austro-Bavarian spoken in the north-eastern parts of the country, and Southern Austro-Bavarian in the south. In Germany, there is a written and spoken standard language, but there are also large differences in the usage of the standard and local dialects. In Northern Germany, standard German is the vernacular, while in Central Germany there is a tendency towards dialect loss. In Southern Germany, dialects are still in use, except in Bavaria, where they are in decline.

If you are looking to learn German, both countries have a lot to offer. Germany has the advantage of being significantly larger than Austria, so you will have more options for places to visit and languages to hear. However, Austria's smaller size means that it is easier to get around and see a variety of places in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, Austria's laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty make it a great place to learn the language and explore the country.

Frequently asked questions