Austria is one of Europe’s safest, cleanest, and most student-friendly countries. With top-ranking universities, strong research opportunities, affordable tuition, and a high living standard, it attracts thousands of international students every year.Finding the right accommodation early is important because student housing in Austria fills up quickly — especially in cities like Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, and Salzburg.This detailed 2025 guide will help you understand all accommodation types, rent prices, popular student areas, booking tips, and cultural expectations.
1. On-Campus & Student Dormitories in Austria
Most student accommodations in Austria are operated by student housing organizations rather than the universities themselves. Dorms are modern, safe, and well-maintained.
Top Dorm Providers
- OeAD Housing – Available in Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, and Innsbruck
- ÖJAB Student Housing – One of the largest networks
- Wihast Student Homes
- STUWO Student Housing
- Victor Student Housing
Benefits of Dormitories
Affordable compared to private apartments- Fully furnished rooms
- Utilities included (heating, electricity, WiFi)
- Common kitchens and study rooms
- Secure and well-managed
- Many international students
Average Monthly Dorm Costs
| City | Shared Room | Single Room |
| Vienna | €300–€450 | €400–€700 |
| Graz | €260–€380 | €350–€550 |
| Innsbruck | €320–€420 | €450–€650 |
| Linz | €250–€370 | €350–€500 |
| Salzburg | €280–€400 | €390–€580 |
Considerations
- Limited seats → apply 3–6 months early
- Shared kitchens (you cook your own food)
- Rooms are compact
- Strict rules (noise, visitors, cleanliness)
Best for:
First-year students, budget-focused students, and those wanting a multicultural community.
2. Off-Campus Housing in Austria
“WG” (Wohngemeinschaft) is Austria’s shared flat culture — very popular among university students.
Housing Options
- WG Shared Rooms – Cheapest and most social
- Private Studios / Apartments
- 1-Bedroom or 2-Bedroom flats (for families or groups)
Benefits
- Independence and privacy
- Choose your preferred location
- Cook your own food
- Larger living space
- Ideal for long-term students
2.1 Rent Prices in Vienna
Vienna is Austria’s most popular student city.Student-Friendly Areas:
- -Favoriten
- -Ottakring
- -Floridsdorf
- -Leopoldstadt
- -Wieden
- -Simmering
Average Rent in Vienna:
- A WG shared room costs around €350–€550 per month.
- A studio apartment ranges between €650–€950, while a 1-bedroom apartment costs €850–€1,300.
- Larger 2-bedroom apartments are usually €1,400–€1,900 monthly.
2.2 Rent Prices in Graz
Graz is Austria’s second-largest student city with a vibrant student lifestyle.Popular Student Areas:
- -Jakomini
- -Geidorf
- -Lend
- -Eggenberg
Average Rent in Graz:
- WG rooms cost around €280–€420.
- Studio apartments range €500–€750.
- 1-BHK / 1-bedroom apartments usually cost €650–€950 per month.
2.3 Rent Prices in Innsbruck
Innsbruck is a beautiful mountain city, slightly more expensive because of high student demand.
Average Rent in Innsbruck:
- WG rooms cost €350–€550 monthly.
- Studio apartments range between €700–€1,000.
- 1-BHK / 1-bedroom units cost €900–€1,300.
2.4 Rent Prices in Salzburg & Linz
Salzburg and Linz are mid-range cities with strong student communities—especially popular for arts, engineering, IT, and business courses.
Salzburg Rent:
- WG rooms: €320–€480
- Studio apartments: €650–€950
- 1-BHK / 1-bedroom: €850–€1,200
Linz Rent:
- WG rooms: €280–€420
- Studio apartments: €500–€800
- 1-BHK / 1-bedroom: €700–€1,000
3. Homestays in Austria
Homestays offer a more cultural, family-like environment.
Benefits
- Home-cooked meals
- Cultural immersion
- Extra support
- Good for younger students
Cost
€600–€1,000 per month (with meals)
Considerations
- House rules may be strict
- Limited privacy
- Not very common in all cities
4. Cost Comparison
| Type of Housing | Vienna | Graz | Innsbruck | Linz | Salzburg |
| Dorm (Single) | €400–€700 | €350–€550 | €450–€650 | €350–€500 | €390–€580 |
| WG Room | €350–€550 | €280–€420 | €350–€550 | €280–€420 | €320–€480 |
| Studio | €650–€950 | €500–€750 | €700–€1,000 | €500–€800 | €650–€950 |
| 1-BHK | €850–€1,300 | €650–€950 | €900–€1,300 | €700–€1,000 | €850–€1,200 |
5. Safety Tips for International Students in Austria
Austria is very safe, but here are key tips:
- Use official housing websites
- Avoid unregistered sublets
- Keep your apartment door locked
- Learn how to use public transport apps
- Avoid very cheap apartments (might be scams)
- Understand Mülltrennung (waste separation rules)
- Save emergency numbers (112)
6. Cultural & Social Adaptation
Austria has a rich European culture with many unique habits:
- Important Cultural Notes
- Punctuality is very important
- Public spaces are quiet
- Always greet neighbors politely
- Remove shoes in many homes
- Austrians value privacy
- Sundays are for rest — shops closed
Student Life
- Lots of cafés & libraries for studying
- Public transport is excellent
- Student discounts everywhere
- University culture is very independent
7. Where to Find Student Accommodation in Austria
Official Student Housing
- -OeAD Housing
- -ÖJAB
- -STUWO
- -Wihast
Popular Housing Portals
- -WG-Gesucht.de (best for WG rooms)
- -Willhaben.at
- -ImmobilienScout24.at
- -HousingAnywhere
- -Studieren.at Housing
Tips Before Booking
- Check heating type (gas is expensive)
- Confirm if utilities are included
- Ask about deposit (usually 1–3 months)
- Visit or request a video tour
- Read all contract rules carefully
- Avoid paying before signing contract
8. FAQ: Student Housing in Austria
Q1: Are dorms cheaper than apartments?
Yes — dorms are usually the most affordable option.
Q2: How early should I apply for student housing?
Apply 3–6 months before arrival.
Q3: Do apartments come furnished?
Many student apartments are semi-furnished. Dorms are fully furnished.
Q4: Is Vienna too expensive for students?
Vienna is more expensive than other cities but manageable with dorms or WG rooms.
Q5: Can I work part-time while studying?
Yes — depending on your visa type and work permit rules.
Conclusion
Austria is one of the best European destinations for international students — safe, clean, organized, and academically strong. Choosing the right accommodation can help you settle faster and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Whether you prefer modern dorms, shared WG flats, or private apartments in Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Linz, or Salzburg — Austria offers housing options for every budget. Applying early and using reliable platforms will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
