Vienna consistently ranks as the world’s most livable city — and for students, the combination of world-class universities, stunning architecture, and remarkably affordable housing (by Western European standards) is hard to beat. The city’s 200,000+ students attend the University of Vienna, TU Wien, WU (Vienna University of Economics), and several specialized universities.
Heim (Student Dormitories)
Vienna has an exceptional student dormitory system. The main providers (OEAD, Home4Students, STUWO) offer single rooms and small apartments at subsidized rates: €280–450/month including utilities. Apply early — waiting lists are real, especially for the October semester.
WGs (Shared Apartments)
The Austrian WG (Wohngemeinschaft) culture is well-established. Rooms in shared apartments:
- Alsergrund (9th): University of Vienna area. The main university building, Votivkirche, and the Spitalgasse medical campus. Rooms €350–550/month.
- Josefstadt (8th): Vienna’s smallest district, between the university and the city hall. Quiet, residential. Rooms €350–550/month.
- Wieden & Margareten (4th & 5th): South of the centre, near TU Wien. The Naschmarkt (Vienna’s largest food market) and Karlskirche. Rooms €340–520/month.
WU (Vienna University of Economics)
WU’s stunning Zaha Hadid-designed campus is in Leopoldstadt (2nd), near the Prater park. The area around the campus has modern apartment buildings. Rooms €350–550/month.
Budget-Friendly Outer Districts
Vienna’s excellent public transport makes outer districts viable:
- Ottakring (16th): Multicultural, the Brunnenmarkt (longest street market in Vienna), and 20 min U-Bahn to the university. Rooms €280–420/month.
- Favoriten (10th): Vienna’s most populous district. Hauptbahnhof area has new developments. Rooms €280–430/month.
FAQ
Is Vienna really that livable? Yes — the combination of reliable public transport (€75/semester for students), abundant green space, affordable cultural access (standing tickets at the Staatsoper for €3–4), and safe streets is genuinely hard to beat. What language are courses in? University of Vienna and TU Wien offer many English-language master’s programs. Bachelor’s programs are mostly German. Check your specific program. Monthly budget? €800–1,100/month including housing. Amazing value for a city of this quality.