If you’re planning to study in Austria as an international student, understanding the cost of living is essential. While Austria is one of the most affordable study destinations in Western Europe, it’s important to plan your student budget wisely to avoid financial stress.
In this guide by Austria Student Housing, we’ll break down the average international student expenses in Austria, offer budget-saving tips, and highlight how to manage your money as a student living in cities like Vienna, Graz, or Innsbruck.
📊 Average Monthly Expenses for International Students in Austria
Here’s a rough estimate of what international students typically spend per month in Austria:
| Category | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Student Housing | €350 – €600 |
| Food & Groceries | €200 – €300 |
| Public Transport | €30 – €78 |
| Phone & Internet | €20 – €30 |
| Health Insurance | €60 – €70 |
| Study Materials | €20 – €50 |
| Leisure & Social Life | €100 – €200 |
| Total | €780 – €1,300 |
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🏠 Student Housing Costs in Austria
Housing is usually the biggest monthly expense. Your cost will depend on the type and location of your accommodation:
- Student Dormitories: €350 – €500/month (includes utilities)
- Shared Apartment (WG): €400 – €600/month
- Private Studio: €600 – €800/month
At Austria Student Housing, we offer affordable, verified student accommodation in top cities like Vienna, Graz, and Innsbruck — all Meldezettel-eligible and close to your university.
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🍽 Food & Grocery Expenses
You can expect to spend around €200–€300/month on food. Shopping at supermarkets like Hofer, Lidl, or Spar helps reduce costs.
💡Student Tip: Cooking at home is much cheaper than eating out! Take advantage of student canteens (Mensen) which offer discounted meals.
🚇 Transportation Costs
Austria has an excellent public transport system. Students can save by buying:
- Semester Ticket (Vienna): ~€78 for 4-5 months
- Monthly Pass (other cities): €30 – €60
Biking is also a popular and cost-effective way to get around.
🏥 Health Insurance for International Students
International students in Austria are required to have valid health insurance. The public student health insurance (ÖGK) costs around:
- €66.79/month (2025 rate)
Make sure you register as soon as you arrive to avoid penalties.
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📚 Study & Personal Expenses
- Study materials (books, supplies): €20–€50/month
- SIM card/Internet: €20–€30/month
- Gym/fitness: €25–€40/month
- Leisure (movies, travel, clubs): €100–€200/month
With a valid student ID, you’ll get discounts at museums, concerts, gyms, and public transport.
💡 Budget Tips for International Students in Austria
- Apply for student housing early to avoid overpriced rentals.
- Open a local bank account to avoid foreign transaction fees.
- Track your expenses using budget apps like N26, Mint, or Revolut.
- Use student discount platforms such as ISIC or ÖH-card.
- Work part-time: International students can work up to 20 hours/week.
Need a job? Check out our Student Jobs Page for part-time opportunities in digital marketing, tutoring, sales, and more.
🔁 Can International Students Work in Austria?
Yes! As a non-EU/EEA student with a residence permit “Student,” you can work up to 20 hours/week during the semester.
Popular part-time jobs include:
- Social media assistant
- Retail associate
- Barista/waiter
- Virtual assistant
- Commission-based sales
Austria Student Housing also connects you with job openings tailored for international students.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Manage Your Budget, Live Better
Living in Austria as an international student can be both affordable and enjoyable with the right planning. At Austria Student Housing, we help you not only find the best housing options but also support your smooth financial transition into Austrian student life.
👉Browse Affordable Student Housing in Austria
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