Tips for Affordable Housing in Vienna, Graz, and Salzburg
Planning to study in Austria? One of the first things international students consider after receiving their admission letter is finding suitable accommodation in Austria. From student dormitories to shared flats (WGs) and private apartments, Austria offers a variety of housing options that suit different budgets, lifestyles, and preferences.
This guide will help you explore the best student accommodation choices in Austria, understand average rent costs, and discover tips for affordable housing in popular student cities like Vienna, Graz, and Salzburg.
Why Finding the Right Student Accommodation in Austria Matters
Living in Austria as an international student is about more than just studying, it’s about experiencing a safe, affordable, and culturally rich environment. Having the right accommodation ensures:
- A comfortable and secure place to stay
- Proximity to universities and public transport
- Opportunities for social interaction with peers
- A balanced budget for rent, food, and leisure
Types of Student Accommodation in Austria
Student Dormitories (Studentenwohnheime)
Cost: €250 – €450/month
Key Features:
- Fully furnished rooms with shared kitchens and bathrooms
- Utilities (heating, water, electricity) and Wi-Fi often included
- Proximity to universities and city centers
- Social activities and cultural events for students
Why Choose Dorms:
- Most affordable option for first-year students
- Easy way to meet other international students
- Managed by trusted organizations like OeAD
Shared Flats (Wohngemeinschaft or WG)
Cost: €300 – €600/month
Key Features:
- Private rooms with shared common areas
- Flexibility to choose flat-mates
- Costs split between tenants, including utilities
Why Choose WGs:
- Balance between privacy and affordability
- More independence than dormitories
- Popular among Erasmus and long-term students
Private Apartments or Studios
Cost: €500 – €800/month (varies by city)
Key Features:
- Complete privacy with personal kitchen and bathroom
- Suitable for couples or students seeking independence
- May require additional costs for utilities and furniture
Why Choose Private Apartments:
- Full control over your living space
- Ideal for students who prefer quiet, independent living
Homestays
Cost: €300 – €500/month
Key Features:
- Stay with a local Austrian family
- Meals may be included
- Perfect for cultural immersion and language learning
Affordable Housing Tips for Vienna, Graz, and Salzburg
Vienna – Capital City with Plenty of Choices
- Average Rent: €350 – €650/month
- Tips:
- Apply early for student dormitories near University of Vienna or TU Wien
- Explore districts outside the city center for cheaper rents
- Use platforms like OeAD Housing or Housing Anywhere for verified listings
Graz – Austria’s Student-Friendly City
- Average Rent: €280 – €450/month
- Tips:
- Look for WGs near University of Graz or TU Graz
- Many apartments include utilities in rent—confirm before signing
- Consider student dorms for first-semester convenience
Salzburg – Culture Meets Student Life
- Average Rent: €350 – €700/month
- Tips:
- Book early for dormitories near University of Salzburg
- Shared flats near the historic center offer affordability with a cultural vibe
- Public transport makes commuting easy, even from suburbs
What’s Included in Student Rent in Austria?
Most student housing options include:
- Utilities (heating, electricity, water)
- Internet/Wi-Fi
- Furnished rooms
- Laundry facilities
- Legal contracts for student visa and Meldezettel (registration)
How to Apply for Student Housing in Austria
- Choose your city and university
- Browse available rooms on official housing platforms
- Apply online early – rooms fill up quickly before each semester
- Review contracts carefully for deposit, utilities, and cancellation policies
- Move in and register your address (Meldezettel)
Here’s a comparison table summarizing the costs, amenities, and housing options across the major student cities in Austria.
Student Accommodation Costs & Amenities in Austria (2025)
| City | Accommodation Type | Average Monthly Rent (EUR) | Amenities Included | Best For |
| Vienna | Dormitories | €350 – €450 | Utilities, Wi-Fi, Furnished Rooms, Laundry, Social Activities | First-year students, Erasmus students |
| Shared Flats (WG) | €400 – €600 | Shared Kitchen & Living Areas, Wi-Fi, Utilities (shared) | Students seeking independence + budget | |
| Private Apartments/Studios | €500 – €800 | Varies by provider, may exclude utilities | Couples, mature students | |
| Graz | Dormitories | €280 – €400 | Fully Furnished, Utilities, Wi-Fi | Affordable living, first semester |
| Shared Flats (WG) | €300 – €450 | Shared Kitchen, Wi-Fi, Utilities | Erasmus students, long-term stays | |
| Private Apartments/Studios | €450 – €700 | Privacy, Independence, Some furnished options | Students wanting more personal space | |
| Salzburg | Dormitories | €350 – €500 | Utilities, Wi-Fi, Furnished Rooms | Close to universities & cultural sites |
| Shared Flats (WG) | €400 – €600 | Shared Kitchen, Internet, Utilities | Students wanting affordability + culture | |
| Private Apartments/Studios | €500 – €700 | May require furnishing, Utilities separate | Independent students, quiet living | |
| Linz | Dormitories | €300 – €450 | Furnished Rooms, Wi-Fi, Utilities | Tech + art students, affordable living |
| Shared Flats (WG) | €350 – €500 | Shared Kitchen & Living Areas, Utilities | Students seeking independence + budget | |
| Innsbruck | Dormitories | €350 – €500 | Fully Furnished, Utilities, Wi-Fi | Outdoor lovers, Alpine city living |
| Shared Flats (WG) | €400 – €600 | Shared Kitchen, Wi-Fi, Utilities | Students balancing cost + lifestyle | |
| Leoben | Dormitories | €250 – €400 | Utilities, Furnished Rooms, Wi-Fi | Compact, student-centric living |
This table makes it easy for students to compare costs, housing types, and included amenities across Austria’s most popular cities.
Final Thoughts
Finding affordable student accommodation in Austria doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you choose a budget-friendly dormitory, a shared flat in Graz, or a private apartment in Vienna, early planning and the right resources will help you secure the perfect home.
With Austria’s high quality of life, safe cities, and affordable student housing options, you can focus on what truly matters—your studies and enjoying the vibrant Austrian culture.
FAQs: Finding Student Accommodation in Austria
1. What is the average cost of student accommodation in Austria?
On average, student housing in Austria costs between €250 and €650 per month. Dormitories are the most affordable, while private apartments tend to be more expensive.
2. Which cities in Austria offer the cheapest student accommodation?
Cities like Graz, Leoben, and Linz are known for lower rent prices, starting from €250 per month, compared to Vienna or Salzburg, where average rent is higher.
3. What types of student accommodation are available in Austria?
International students can choose from:
Student Dormitories (Studentenwohnheime)
Private Apartments/Studios
Homestays with local families
Shared Apartments
4. When should I start looking for accommodation in Austria?
It’s best to start searching 3–4 months before the semester begins, especially if you want a room in a popular dormitory or shared flat.
5. What is included in student rent in Austria?
Most student accommodations include utilities (water, heating, electricity), Wi-Fi, and furnished rooms. Some dormitories also provide laundry facilities and social activities.
6. How can I apply for student accommodation in Austria?
You can apply online through platforms like OeAD Housing, university housing offices, or private websites. You’ll need to provide personal details, proof of admission, and sometimes pay a deposit to secure your place.
7. Can international students work to cover their rent in Austria?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester, helping them manage living expenses, including rent.
8. Are shared flats (WG) popular among students?
Yes, WGs are very popular because they are affordable, offer private bedrooms with shared spaces, and provide opportunities for social interaction with other students.
9. Do I need to register my address (Meldezettel) when renting accommodation?
Yes, all students must register their address in Austria through the Meldezettel process, which is required for visa and residence purposes.
10. What tips can help me find affordable student accommodation in Austria?
Apply early to secure the best deals
Compare multiple options online before deciding
Consider shared flats for lower rent and utilities
Look outside the city center for cheaper housing
Websites where i can search for students accommodation
You can check out our accommodation and logistics page for links to accommodation details here on https://travellingscholars.com/accommodation you can also check WIST, Wilhaben
