Renting A One-Bedroom Apartment In Austria: How Much?

Austria is a beautiful country with a high standard of living, making it a popular destination for international students and job seekers. The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Austria varies depending on the location and the city. In Vienna, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is €1,471 per month. The rental price depends on various factors, such as the size of the apartment, the location, and the amenities included. In general, renting in large cities like Vienna and Salzburg tends to be more expensive than in suburban or rural areas.

Vienna 1-bed apartments: average rent €1,471

Vienna, Austria's capital, is a popular place to rent, with many expats and students choosing to make it their home. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vienna is €1,471 per month, but prices can vary depending on the size and amenities of the property.

Renting in Austria

In Austria, it is common for people to rent rather than buy apartments, even among locals. The process of renting usually involves an inspection of the property, the conclusion of a contract, and payment of a deposit. It is important to note that the Austrian rental market heavily favours landlords, with many requirements for tenants. For example, tenants may need to show their employment contract and earnings.

When renting in Austria, it is essential to be aware of the additional costs, such as the provision commission to an agent, Kaution (a prepaid deposit), and Ablöse (covering the previous tenant's investments in the apartment). Landlords can also demand prepayment for the first six months, although this is not always the case.

Vienna's Rental Market

Vienna is Austria's largest city, with a population of almost 2 million people. The rental costs in Vienna are generally the highest in the country, especially in popular neighbourhoods like the Inner City, Leopoldstadt, and Wieden. However, more affordable options can be found in outer districts such as Favoriten and Donaustadt.

The city's unique architecture, high standard of living, and status as a cultural hub make it a desirable place to live. Additionally, Vienna is known for its musical heritage and the presence of natural landmarks like the Danube River and the Vienna Woods.

Finding 1-Bedroom Apartments in Vienna

There are several websites available for finding 1-bedroom apartments in Vienna, including Rentberry, HousingAnywhere, and Flatbee. These websites offer a range of options, from small apartments to shared flats, with prices starting from around €700 per month, including bills.

When searching for a 1-bedroom apartment in Vienna, it is important to start your search early due to the competitive rental market. Be prepared to provide documentation such as proof of income, a copy of your ID or passport, and a deposit. Additionally, consider learning some basic German, as this can be helpful when navigating real estate advertisements and communicating with landlords or agents.

Rental costs vary across Austria

The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Austria varies depending on location, with large cities like Vienna and Salzburg generally being more expensive than suburban or rural areas. The rental price also depends on the specific area within a city, with prestigious central areas usually commanding higher prices.

Vienna

In Vienna, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is €1,471 per month. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood and specific amenities. For instance, in popular neighbourhoods like the Inner City, Leopoldstadt, and Wieden, rental costs tend to be higher. On the other hand, more affordable options can be found in outer districts such as Favoriten and Donaustadt.

• €1,200 per month for a 35 square metre apartment (some bills included)
• €710-€770 per month for apartments ranging from 25 to 31 square metres (bills included)
• €720-€740 per month for apartments ranging from 26 to 29 square metres (bills included/excluded)

Salzburg

In Salzburg, a one-room apartment typically costs around €500 per month, while a two-room apartment starts from €600-€800. The price increases for larger apartments, with three-room apartments ranging from €800-€1200 per month.

Other Cities

In Graz, Linz, and Innsbruck, rental prices tend to be lower than in Vienna. However, it's important to note that prices can vary by neighbourhood or district, so it's essential to research and compare prices before making a decision. Additionally, suburban or rural areas outside of large cities may offer more affordable options, with larger apartments or houses available for the same price as a small city apartment.

The process of renting in Austria

Renting an apartment in Austria is a relatively straightforward process, with most properties being handled by real estate agents. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process of renting in Austria:

Search for Housing

You can choose to search for properties independently through websites or seek the help of a professional real estate agent. Websites like Willhaben, Flatbee, and Immobilienscout24 are popular for finding apartments in Austria.

Inspection of the Property

When inspecting the property, pay attention to the shortcomings of the home, especially if you plan to rent for a long time. Check the lighting, the direction the windows face, the heating system, the condition of the appliances, and any signs of damage or repairs needed.

Conclusion of Contract and Payment of Deposit

The rental contract should outline the rights and obligations of both the tenant and the landlord. It is advisable to have a well-drafted contract to protect both parties. The contract should also specify the amount of the rental deposit, which is usually equivalent to 3 months' rent.

Moving In

After signing the contract and paying the deposit, you can usually move into the rented apartment. Remember to set up your utilities and telecommunications services before moving in, as this may take some time to arrange.

Understanding Rental Costs

In addition to the monthly rent, there may be other costs to consider, such as a provision commission to an agent, the Kaution (rental deposit), and the Ablöse (covering costs invested in the apartment by the previous tenant).

Be Aware of Rental Laws

Familiarize yourself with the rental laws in Austria, such as the Tenancy Act (Mietrechtsgesetz), to ensure your rights as a tenant are protected.

Provide Necessary Documentation

When renting an apartment in Austria, be prepared to provide proof of identity, employment, and income. A visa may also be required, especially for foreigners.

Consider Shared Apartments

Sharing an apartment with roommates is a common practice in Austria and can be a more affordable option.

Start Your Search Early

The rental market in Austria can be competitive, especially in popular cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. It is advisable to start your search early to find the best apartments within your budget.

Understand the Notice Period

If you plan to move out before your lease ends, remember to check the "notice clause" in your contract. Typically, you will need to notify your landlord in writing at least three months before your intended move-out date.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of renting in Austria and find a suitable apartment that meets your needs and budget.

Websites for finding Austrian apartments

When looking for apartments in Austria, it is important to consider your budget, location, and personal preferences. Here are some popular websites to help you get started:

Willhaben

Willhaben is a go-to website for finding an apartment in Austria. It offers a wide range of listings and a user-friendly interface. You can easily search for apartments by city, district, or price range to find your ideal home.

Flatbee

Flatbee is perfect for those who want to live in Austria but have specific lifestyle preferences. It offers a unique feature that allows users to search for eco-friendly or pet-friendly apartments, ensuring you can live comfortably according to your values.

Immobilienscout24

This well-established real estate platform is popular throughout Europe and has a large selection of apartments for rent in Austria, including both furnished and unfurnished options. Immobilienscout24 makes it easy to find your dream home by searching by city, district, or price.

Home4students.at

If you're a student looking for accommodation in Austria, Home4students.at is the website for you. They specialize in offering affordable student housing and have a wide selection of dormitories and shared apartments in all major Austrian cities.

Flohmarkt

Flohmarkt is a classifieds website that is particularly popular in Vienna, offering a wide range of affordable apartments for rent. It's a great option if you're looking for a budget-friendly option in the city.

Rentberry

Rentberry offers a unique approach to renting by allowing tenants to bid on apartments, which can result in lower rental prices. It has a user-friendly interface and a wide range of listings, making it easy to find your dream home.

Mietguru

Mietguru stands out by allowing tenants to create personal profiles and connect directly with landlords. This platform offers a wide range of options, from small apartments to large shared flats, making it easier to find a place that suits your needs and budget.

Properstar

Properstar is another excellent resource for finding apartments and houses for rent in Austria. It offers detailed listings, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and monthly rent. You can easily search for properties based on your desired location and specific requirements.

Rentola

Rentola is a comprehensive platform that gathers the entire Austrian rental market in a single search. With over 9,950 available rentals, you can easily find your dream home without missing out on any opportunities.

Additional Tips for Your Apartment Search:

• Consider your budget and try to find apartments that fit within your desired monthly costs, including rent and any additional fees.
• Define your must-haves and nice-to-haves to prioritize your criteria and make your search more efficient.
• Act quickly when you find an apartment that interests you. Respond promptly to ads and make a good impression on the landlord.
• Prepare for apartment viewings by dressing neatly and bringing important documents, such as pay slips and your employment contract.
• If you're moving to Austria from another country, consider renting a furnished apartment for a limited time to give yourself the flexibility to find a more permanent home once you're in the country.

Tips for renting in Austria

• The rental market in Austria is a landlord's market, with high demand and many requirements. It is not common to negotiate rental costs, and the market is extremely strong, so be prepared to meet the landlord's listed price.
• The average rent in Austria is around €400 per month, with prices varying depending on the province and location within a city. In Vienna, rents for a one-room apartment range from €500 to €2,000.
• Apartments in Austria usually come unfurnished, with only the bare essentials like hot water and heating included. If you prefer a fully furnished home, consider a serviced apartment, but this will likely be more expensive.
• Leases in Austria are typically three years long, and it is uncommon to find regular apartments with shorter leases. There are two main types of rental contracts: primary leasehold and sublet.
• To rent an apartment, you will typically need to provide proof of identity, an Austrian visa, and proof of employment or a student ID. You may also be asked for references from previous landlords, and in some cases, proof of income.
• Rental deposits ("Kaution" in German) are usually equivalent to three months' rent but can be as high as six months' rent.
• It is important to carefully review the rental contract before signing, as it may contain complex legal clauses. If you are not fluent in German, consider consulting a local attorney or advisor to ensure you understand your rights and obligations.
• When viewing an apartment, schedule an inspection during daylight hours to check the lighting and direction the windows face. Pay attention to the heating system, the equipment in the kitchen, bathroom, and toilet, and look for any shortcomings or damage.
• To set up utilities and telecommunications, you will need an Austrian bank account and a local phone number. Allow at least two weeks to activate electricity and gas services before your move-in date.
• If you are moving to Austria from another country, consider renting a furnished apartment for a limited time to give yourself the flexibility to find a suitable long-term accommodation once you are physically in the country.
• If you plan to stay in Austria for an extended period, consider learning some basic German. While not always necessary, it can be helpful when searching for apartments, communicating with landlords, and understanding real estate advertisements and abbreviations.

Frequently asked questions