Buying real estate in Austria?

We've created a guide to help you avoid pitfalls, save time, and make the best long-term investment possible.

What is the average apartment price per square meter in Vienna?

Last updated on 

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Austria Property Pack

property investment Vienna

Yes, the analysis of Vienna's property market is included in our pack

Vienna's apartment market offers attractive investment opportunities with prices averaging €6,500 per square meter in 2025.

The Austrian capital presents diverse pricing across districts, from €12,000-€15,000 per sqm in central areas to €6,000-€8,000 per sqm in suburban neighborhoods. Property buyers can expect total purchase costs including fees to reach 6.6-10% above the purchase price, while rental yields range from 2.5% in premium districts to 4.5% in outer areas.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Austria, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At InvestRopa, we explore the Austrian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What's the current average price per square meter for apartments in Vienna?

The current average price per square meter for apartments in Vienna stands at approximately €6,500 as of June 2025.

This figure represents a city-wide average that encompasses all districts and property types. Central districts command significantly higher prices, with Innere Stadt reaching €12,000-€15,000 per square meter, while suburban areas like Floridsdorf offer more affordable options at €6,000-€7,500 per square meter.

The Vienna apartment market shows clear geographical price stratification. Premium central locations such as Döbling and Innere Stadt consistently exceed €10,000 per square meter due to their historical significance, excellent infrastructure, and proximity to business centers. Mid-tier districts like Währing and Josefstadt typically range between €8,000-€10,000 per square meter, offering a balance between location and affordability.

Outer districts including Donaustadt and Floridsdorf present the most budget-friendly options, with prices often staying below €8,000 per square meter. These areas attract families and investors seeking higher rental yields, as they provide modern amenities and good transport connections at more accessible price points.

As we reach mid-2025, market analysts observe steady price growth driven by continued demand from both domestic buyers and international investors attracted to Vienna's stable economy and high quality of life.

How do average apartment prices vary between central, suburban, and outer districts in Vienna?

Vienna apartment prices show dramatic variation across district categories, with central areas commanding premium rates and outer districts offering value opportunities.

Central districts including Innere Stadt, Döbling, and Alsergrund represent the highest price tier at €8,000-€15,000 per square meter. These prime locations offer historical charm, cultural attractions, and excellent business district access. Innere Stadt tops the market at €12,000-€15,000 per square meter due to its UNESCO World Heritage status and limited housing supply.

Suburban districts such as Währing, Josefstadt, and Wieden occupy the middle price range at €7,000-€10,000 per square meter. These neighborhoods provide residential comfort with good infrastructure, parks, and transport links while maintaining more reasonable pricing than central areas. They particularly attract young professionals and small families seeking quality living without premium location costs.

Outer districts including Floridsdorf, Donaustadt, Favoriten, and Simmering offer the most affordable options at €3,000-€8,000 per square meter. These areas feature modern developments, family-friendly environments, and strong rental demand from residents priced out of central locations.

The price differential between central and outer districts can exceed 100%, making location choice crucial for both investment strategy and budget considerations. It's something we develop in our Austria property pack.

What are the price differences between old buildings, new builds, and luxury apartments?

Property age and condition significantly impact Vienna apartment pricing, with new builds and luxury properties commanding substantial premiums over older stock.

Old buildings requiring renovation offer the most affordable entry point at €3,000-€4,000 per square meter in outer districts, though even renovated historic properties in central areas can reach €8,000-€12,000 per square meter. These older properties often feature high ceilings, period details, and solid construction but may require significant renovation investment.

New builds typically command €6,000-€12,000 per square meter depending on location, reflecting modern amenities, energy efficiency, and contemporary design. Developers focus on suburban and up-and-coming districts where land costs allow profitable development while meeting current building standards and buyer expectations.

Luxury apartments represent the premium segment, with prime central properties averaging €1.5 million or more per unit. Premium penthouses in Innere Stadt can exceed €3-€8 million, featuring exclusive amenities, top-tier finishes, and prestigious addresses that attract high-net-worth buyers and investors.

The price gap between property categories reflects Vienna's diverse housing market, where buyers can choose between affordable renovation projects, modern convenience, or luxury prestige depending on their budget and investment objectives.

How much does a typical apartment cost in total, including all taxes, fees, and notary costs?

Total apartment purchase costs in Vienna include the property price plus approximately 6.6-10% in additional fees and taxes.

The fee structure comprises several mandatory components: real estate agency fees (3% plus VAT), notary costs (1.5-2% plus VAT), land registry fees (1.1%), and various administrative charges. These fees are non-negotiable and must be paid regardless of financing arrangements.

For a typical €260,000 apartment (40 square meters at €6,500 per square meter), buyers should budget €26,000-€30,000 in additional costs, bringing the total investment to approximately €286,000-€290,000. A larger €455,000 property (70 square meters) would require €45,500-€50,000 in fees, totaling around €500,000-€505,000.

Luxury purchases face proportionally higher absolute costs but similar percentage rates. A €1.2 million apartment would incur approximately €120,000 in fees, creating a total investment of €1.32 million. These costs must be paid upfront and cannot typically be financed through mortgage arrangements.

Smart buyers factor these expenses into their initial budget calculations to avoid financing shortfalls during the purchase process.

Don't lose money on your property in Vienna

100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.

investing in real estate in  Vienna

What mortgage options are available for buying an apartment in Vienna, and what's the average down payment and interest rate?

Vienna apartment financing requires substantial down payments with current mortgage rates reflecting European Central Bank policies.

Austrian banks typically require 30% down payment for primary residences, 40% for new construction properties, and 50% for investment or second homes. These requirements ensure borrower equity and reduce lending risk in a competitive property market.

Current mortgage interest rates average 2.5-3.5% as of mid-2025, with recent market rates near 3.4% reflecting broader European economic conditions. Fixed-rate mortgages provide payment certainty, while variable rates may offer initial savings but carry interest rate risk.

Loan-to-value ratios typically reach maximum 70% of property value, meaning buyers must provide substantial cash equity. Banks evaluate borrower income, employment stability, and existing debt obligations when determining loan eligibility and terms.

International buyers face additional documentation requirements and may encounter stricter lending criteria, making local bank relationships and professional assistance valuable for successful financing arrangements. It's something we develop in our Austria property pack.

How have apartment prices in Vienna changed compared to 1 year ago and 5 years ago?

Vienna apartment prices demonstrate consistent upward momentum with accelerating growth in recent years.

Compared to one year ago, Vienna apartment prices increased approximately 4% from 2024 to 2025, reflecting continued demand pressure and limited housing supply. This growth rate exceeds general inflation while remaining sustainable compared to more volatile markets in neighboring countries.

Looking back five years to 2020, Vienna apartment prices have risen approximately 22.5% cumulatively, representing an average annual growth rate of roughly 4.5%. This steady appreciation reflects Vienna's economic stability, population growth, and international investment appeal.

The price trajectory shows particular strength in suburban districts where remote work trends have increased demand for larger living spaces and family-friendly environments. Central district prices have grown more modestly but from higher baseline levels, maintaining their premium positioning.

Market fundamentals supporting price growth include Vienna's role as a regional business hub, limited developable land within city boundaries, and strong rental demand from both local residents and international students and professionals seeking accommodation in Austria's capital.

What is the price forecast for apartments in Vienna in 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years?

Vienna apartment price forecasts indicate continued moderate growth driven by fundamental demand-supply imbalances and economic factors.

One-year outlook suggests 3-5% price appreciation through 2026, supported by ongoing population growth, limited new construction, and sustained international investment interest. Economic stability and Vienna's high quality of life ranking continue attracting residents and investors.

Five-year projections indicate cumulative growth of 15-25% through 2030, assuming continued economic expansion and controlled inflation. Suburban districts may outperform central areas as remote work flexibility drives demand for larger, more affordable properties with good transport connections.

Ten-year forecasts depend heavily on broader economic conditions, regulatory changes, and demographic trends. Moderate growth appears likely barring major economic disruptions, with Vienna's apartment market benefiting from its position as a stable European capital with strong institutions and infrastructure.

Investors should consider that past performance doesn't guarantee future results, and local factors including zoning changes, infrastructure development, and tax policy modifications can significantly impact specific districts and property types over extended timeframes.

Which areas in Vienna are currently the most expensive, which are up-and-coming, and which are the most budget-friendly?

Category Districts Price Range (€/sqm) Key Characteristics Investment Appeal
Most Expensive Innere Stadt, Döbling €12,000-€15,000 Historic center, luxury, prestige Capital preservation, status
Premium Central Alsergrund, Josefstadt €9,000-€12,000 Cultural district, universities Stable appreciation
Up-and-Coming Brigittenau, Leopoldstadt €7,000-€10,500 Revitalization, new developments High growth potential
Emerging Areas Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus €6,500-€8,500 Transport improvements, young professionals Early-stage appreciation
Family Suburban Favoriten, Simmering €6,500-€8,000 Schools, parks, family amenities Steady rental demand
Budget-Friendly Floridsdorf, Donaustadt €6,000-€8,000 New builds, transport links Higher rental yields
Value Options Outer district renovations €3,000-€6,000 Renovation opportunities Renovation-dependent returns
infographics rental yields citiesVienna

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Austria versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Can you give example purchase prices (with fees) for 40m², 70m², and 100m² apartments in different neighborhoods?

Apartment Size District Price per sqm Base Price Fees (8%) Total Cost
40m² Favoriten €6,500 €260,000 €20,800 €280,800
40m² Währing €8,000 €320,000 €25,600 €345,600
40m² Innere Stadt €12,000 €480,000 €38,400 €518,400
70m² Floridsdorf €6,000 €420,000 €33,600 €453,600
70m² Leopoldstadt €8,500 €595,000 €47,600 €642,600
70m² Döbling €11,000 €770,000 €61,600 €831,600
100m² Donaustadt €7,000 €700,000 €56,000 €756,000
100m² Josefstadt €9,500 €950,000 €76,000 €1,026,000
100m² Innere Stadt €14,000 €1,400,000 €112,000 €1,512,000

What are the smartest investment choices right now for someone who wants to live, rent short term, rent long term, or buy to resell?

Investment strategy choice in Vienna depends on your primary objective and risk tolerance, with different districts offering advantages for each approach.

For personal residence, central districts like Josefstadt and Alsergrund provide excellent quality of life with cultural amenities, while suburban areas like Währing and Döbling offer larger spaces and family-friendly environments. These locations maintain strong resale value and provide enjoyable living experiences.

Short-term rental investments perform best in central tourist areas, particularly near Innere Stadt and major attractions. However, investors must carefully research local regulations governing short-term rentals, as Vienna has implemented restrictions to protect long-term housing supply. Higher nightly rates can generate strong returns but require active management and compliance with tourism regulations.

Long-term rental strategies favor suburban districts like Floridsdorf, Donaustadt, and Favoriten where rental yields reach 3.5-4.5% annually. These areas attract stable tenant populations including families, young professionals, and students seeking affordable accommodation with good transport connections to central Vienna.

Buy-to-resell opportunities concentrate in up-and-coming districts such as Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt, where infrastructure improvements and urban regeneration projects drive appreciation potential. Early investment in these areas before full gentrification can capture significant capital gains over 3-7 year holding periods. It's something we develop in our Austria property pack.

How do Vienna's apartment prices compare to other similar cities like Munich, Prague, or Zurich?

Vienna offers competitive pricing relative to other major Central European capitals, positioning itself as an attractive investment destination.

Compared to Munich, Vienna apartment prices remain approximately 20-30% lower, with Munich city center properties averaging €10,000-€12,000 per square meter versus Vienna's €9,000-€15,000 range. Munich's stronger German economy and corporate presence drive higher prices, making Vienna more accessible for international investors.

Zurich represents the premium end of the regional market, with central properties averaging €23,000 per square meter compared to Vienna's €12,000-€15,000 maximum range. Swiss financial sector salaries and limited housing supply create price levels roughly 50-60% above Vienna, making the Austrian capital appear relatively affordable.

Prague offers the most budget-friendly alternative, with central district properties averaging €5,000-€7,000 per square meter versus Vienna's higher baseline. However, Vienna provides superior infrastructure, political stability, and EU market access that justify its price premium over the Czech capital.

Vienna's positioning between expensive Western European markets and emerging Eastern European cities creates opportunities for investors seeking established market stability with reasonable entry costs and strong rental demand fundamentals.

If I plan to buy and rent out the apartment, what is the expected rental yield for short-term and long-term rentals in different districts?

Vienna rental yields vary significantly by district and rental strategy, with suburban areas generally outperforming central locations for long-term income generation.

Central districts including Innere Stadt and Döbling typically generate 2.5-3.5% gross rental yields for long-term rentals. While yields appear modest, these areas offer stable tenant demand, minimal vacancy periods, and strong capital appreciation potential that can enhance total returns over time.

Suburban and outer districts such as Floridsdorf, Donaustadt, and Favoriten provide superior rental yields of 3.5-4.5% annually. These areas attract families, young professionals, and students seeking affordable accommodation, creating consistent rental demand and higher percentage returns on investment capital.

Short-term rental yields can exceed long-term rates in tourist-heavy central areas, potentially reaching 5-7% in prime locations near major attractions. However, short-term rentals require active management, face regulatory restrictions, and carry higher vacancy risks during low tourism periods.

Up-and-coming districts like Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt offer balanced opportunities with 3.5-4.0% yields plus appreciation potential as these areas undergo urban regeneration. The combination of moderate rental income and capital growth prospects makes these districts attractive for balanced investment strategies.

Successful rental property investment requires consideration of management costs, vacancy periods, maintenance expenses, and tax obligations that can reduce gross yields by 1-2 percentage points annually.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. InvestRopa Vienna Average Apartment Prices
  2. InvestRopa Vienna Market Data
  3. Ohne Makler Vienna Properties
  4. InvestRopa Vienna Real Estate Market
  5. Investors in Property Austria Purchase Costs
  6. Aparthotel Austria Property Financing
  7. The Global Economy Austria Mortgage Rates
  8. Engel & Völkers Vienna Property Prices
  9. InvestRopa Vienna Real Estate Forecasts
  10. InvestRopa Vienna Area Guide