Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Austria often means falling under the spell of the Alps, Viennese coffeehouses, and a quality of life among the best in the world. But behind the picture-postcards, the country follows very specific social codes, sometimes baffling for newcomers. Language, relationship with time, hierarchy, daily life, education, health, housing: understanding these cultural differences before you pack your bags can save you a lot of misunderstandings… and speed up your integration.
A Highly Developed Country, but More Conservative Than It Seems
Austria is a prosperous federal republic, with a diversified economy and a solid welfare state. The country has fewer than 10 million inhabitants, yet boasts a high standard of living, a healthcare system ranked among the best in the world, and widely accessible education.
Society aims to be egalitarian: the “power distance” index is very low, meaning relationships are rather horizontal and citizens value equality. In practice, a class system lingers in the background, mainly linked to income level and professional position, but it manifests in a more subdued than ostentatious way.
The Catholic religion remains culturally significant, with over half the population identifying as Catholic, despite a decline in practice and an increase in those with no religion. Islam represents nearly 8% of the population, and various other communities (Orthodox, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist) coexist. Religious freedom is guaranteed by the Constitution.
This backdrop explains certain social codes: a calendar largely filled with Catholic holidays, a valuing of family and “respectability,” and a moderate, sometimes cautious, attitude toward societal changes, even though notable developments have occurred, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2019.
Austria Is Not Germany: Language, Humor, and “Schmäh”
For many French-speaking expats, German = Germany. But in Austria, German has a very distinct flavor and spirit. Yes, the official language is German, spoken natively by 98% of the population, but it is Austrian German, with specific vocabulary, a distinct pronunciation, and numerous regional dialects.
A More Indirect, More Ironic German
Austrian German is often perceived as more ambiguous and indirect than the German spoken in Germany. Where a German would be very upfront, an Austrian tends to “soften” the message, sometimes “durch die Blume,” literally “through the flower,” meaning with polite circumlocutions or a touch of irony.
Schmäh is a typically Viennese tone that mixes humor, self-deprecation, and slight cynicism. It can disconcert foreigners who take it too literally. A remark that seems dry is often a coded joke, while “not bad” can actually mean “really very good.” To decode it, you must consider the context, tone of voice, and your relationship with the speaker.
Sometimes Baffling Dialects
In addition to standard German (Hochdeutsch) used in media, administration, and schools, each state has its dialect: Viennese, Bavarian-Austrian, Alemannic in Vorarlberg, Styrian or Carinthian dialects, etc. Some are hard to follow, even for experienced German speakers.
Austrians typically switch easily between dialect and standard German, especially around foreigners, but not always spontaneously. For an expat, it is useful to:
– master standard German for administrative procedures and professional life;
– gradually familiarize yourself with local expressions, for example Jänner for January, Sackerl for “bag,” Topfen for “quark,” Paradeiser for tomato, Erdapfel for potato.
In Austria, several minority languages are recognized and spoken, such as Burgenland Croatian, Slovenian in Carinthia, Hungarian in certain regions, as well as Serbian and Turkish, which are very present in large cities. Although English is widely spoken in urban and professional settings, relying solely on it clearly limits integration. Learning and using these languages, in addition to German, fosters deeper immersion and a better understanding of Austrian society.
Greetings That Say a Lot
Forms of greeting reveal a lot about the social context. In formal settings, you’ll hear Guten Morgen or Grüß Gott, a phrase still very common, especially outside Vienna. In more familiar contexts, Servus works as a versatile “hi,” while Griaß di is often used in the countryside or mountains.
For saying goodbye, expressions like Servus, Baba, Pfiat di, or Wiederschauen sometimes pile up: it’s not uncommon to hear two or three phrases in a row. Learning a few of these expressions and using them daily is an effective shortcut to win locals’ sympathy.
Politeness, Formality, and Punctuality: The Three Pillars of Daily Life
In social life, two traits stand out clearly: formal politeness and punctuality.
The Cult of “Sie” and Titles
Austrians place considerable importance on titles and forms of address. “Herr” (Mr.) and “Frau” (Mrs./Ms., no distinction) are very often accompanied by the last name and, if possible, the academic or professional title: Herr Doktor, Frau Magister, Herr Ingenieur, etc.
The switch to the familiar “du” in a German-speaking professional context is not automatic. It is usually offered, rarely imposed, and by the oldest or highest-ranking person. Without this explicit agreement, the formal “Sie” remains the norm, even after years of collaboration. Using a colleague’s or superior’s first name without permission can be seen as disrespectful.
In written exchanges, even emails are treated as formal letters, with highly codified salutations and closings.
Absolute Punctuality
Being on time is not a detail; it is a mark of respect. Arriving even five minutes late for a business meeting or dinner can be perceived as rude, even unprofessional. The implicit norm is to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early.
And if a delay is unavoidable, always alert them by phone or message. This relationship with time contrasts with the flexibility of other European cultures: in Austria, the clock is part of the social contract.
Relationship with time in Austria
Privacy and Sensitive Topics
The boundary between private life and professional life is clear. Austrians willingly talk about weather, food, mountains, skiing, hiking, culture, or immediate family, but rarely discuss their income, debts, political opinions, or religion, especially with people they don’t know well.
Certain topics are frankly best avoided in light conversation: World War II, the Holocaust, highly polarized debates on immigration. It’s better to tread carefully, and only in a context of trust.
An Egalitarian Society… but Still Marked by Gender Roles
On paper, gender equality is enshrined in the Constitution, and many mechanisms support it: shareable parental leave, high female employment rate (68.1% for ages 15–64 in 2021), a significant share of women with higher education degrees (20.6%, higher than men).
This is the average gender pay gap in percentage in the workplace.
For an expatriate, this means expecting an environment that is generally open to mixing genders, but not yet fully aligned with Nordic equality standards. Younger urban generations, especially in Vienna, Graz, or Innsbruck, are adopting much more egalitarian patterns, including in the division of household chores.
Work and Business: Subtle Hierarchy, Efficiency, and Work-Life Balance
Work culture in Austria balances tradition and modernity. The country has a dominant service economy, but remains attached to a certain formalism.
Clear Hierarchy, but Not Authoritarian
Organizational charts are very structured and responsibilities are well defined. Important decisions are often made at the top, after sometimes long and meticulous consultation processes. Hierarchy is highly respected but is not expressed through outward signs of authority: the tone remains discreet, criticism is restrained, and loyalty to the company is valued.
For an expat used to very participatory organizations or, conversely, very authoritarian ones, Austria can be surprising with this mix: discussions happen, consensus is sought, but the final word usually rests with senior management.
Hours, Working Time, and Vacation: The Real Weight of the Weekend
Weekly working time is generally between 38 and 40 hours, based on an eight-hour day. Typical hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a lunch break. Working late in the evening is not seen as a sign of motivation, but rather as poor organization. Overinvesting at the expense of private life is not valued.
Weekends, especially Sundays, are reserved for personal life and many stores are closed. Professionally, the months of July–August and the Christmas period are periods of lower activity when many colleagues are on leave, which affects responsiveness. It is advisable to take this into account when planning projects or important signatures.
Communication Style in Business
In meetings, the agenda is strictly followed. Speaking turns are rather measured, without emotional outbursts or grand gestures. Contributions are expected to be factual, structured, backed by figures or concrete evidence.
In a French professional context, if a proposal is met with prolonged silence rather than a clear objection, it may indicate polite disagreement. For instance, during a meeting, a colleague who does not openly contradict a plan but also does not express support might actually disagree. It is therefore crucial to decode these non-verbal signals and encourage constructive feedback in a nuanced way, as direct confrontation or interrupting someone would be considered disrespectful.
Working relationships remain formal for a long time. It is not unusual, even after years of collaboration, to use the formal “Sie” and maintain a clear distance between private and professional life. Networking events exist, but take place in a very professional setting, far from loud “afterworks.”
Dress Code: Sober and Neat
In terms of clothing, the norm is discreet elegance. In the office, dark suits, white shirts, and sober ties dominate for men; tailored suits, classic dresses, and carefully chosen accessories for women. Jeans may be tolerated in some environments, but not in client-facing roles.
Sportswear, shorts, or overly casual outfits on the street or in urban offices are generally frowned upon. For the theater, the opera, or certain concerts, dressy attire is expected, almost required.
Social Life, “Gemütlichkeit,” and the Importance of Coffeehouses
The word Gemütlichkeit has no real English equivalent: it evokes a warm, relaxed, comfortable atmosphere where you feel at home. This notion infuses Austrian social life, whether in a mountain hut after a hike, at a Heuriger (wine tavern) on the outskirts of Vienna, or in a traditional coffeehouse.
Coffeehouses: Salons of Public Life
The Viennese coffeehouse is not just a bar: it is an institution. People spend hours there reading the newspaper, working, meeting friends, or simply watching the world go by. The coffee menu itself is a field of cultural discovery: Melange, Verlängerter, kleiner Brauner, Einspänner… so many codified ways of consuming your coffee.
Settling into a coffeehouse involves respecting implicit rules: don’t be offended by sometimes distant service, order something even for a long stay, speak softly, and let time flow. For an expat, regularly frequenting “your” coffeehouse is an excellent lever for integration into local life.
Meals, Toasts, and Invitations
Meals, especially dinner, play a central role in social relationships. Whether in a restaurant or at home, the following codes are important:
Wait until everyone is served and the host says “Guten Appetit” before starting. Finishing your plate is a sign of respect. For a toast, look your fellow diners in the eye and say “Prost.” During a business meal, let the host initiate professional discussion. The person who invites usually pays the bill, though splitting is more common among younger urban generations in private settings.
Being invited to someone’s home is a rather rare honor, especially for a foreigner. You never visit an Austrian without warning, and bringing a gift for the host is a must: flowers (in odd numbers, avoiding red roses, red carnations, or lilies), a quality bottle of wine, fine chocolates, or a specialty from your home country.
Alcohol: Present but Regulated
Alcohol consumption is an accepted part of the culture. Beer and wine are ubiquitous, and the legal drinking age is 16 for most beverages. Austrians drink on average more than the European average.
That said, ostentatious drunkenness is rather frowned upon outside of certain festive events. In daily life, alcohol accompanies meals or get‑togethers, but should not become the focus of the evening, especially in professional settings.
Housing and Neighbors: The Cult of Quiet and Contract
Housing policy in Austria, especially in Vienna, is often cited as a model. Over 60% of Viennese live in subsidized housing, accessible not only to low-income households but also to part of the middle class. Social housing complexes can include pools, gardens, daycare centers, and offer a high level of comfort.
A Highly Regulated but Demanding Rental Market
For an expat, the market is still competitive, especially in large cities. Leases are often set for a minimum of three years. Early termination is regulated: a tenant can usually only give notice after 16 months, with three months’ notice, unless a specific clause (such as a repatriation clause) exists.
The security deposit is typically three months’ rent, sometimes more. Apartments are often unfurnished, sometimes even without a fitted kitchen. Negotiating rent is not common practice. Regarding agency fees, the law states that the party that hires the agent (often the landlord) must pay the commission, but these fees can still be substantial.
Very Strict Condominium Rules
Apartment building life is marked by a strong culture of respect for others:
Respecting neighbors involves observing quiet hours (e.g., 10 p.m.–6 a.m. and often Sundays), keeping common areas clean, informing neighbors about renovations or moves, and using noisy appliances (drill, vacuum, washing machine) at appropriate times.
Failure to follow these rules can quickly create tensions, especially since Austrians do not hesitate to report to the authorities what they perceive as incivilities (noise, obstructive parking, etc.). For an expat coming from a country that is more tolerant in this regard, the adjustment can be significant.
Health and Social Protection: Solidarity as a Principle
Austria has a universal healthcare system, funded by social security contributions proportional to salary, split almost equally between employers and employees. Nearly 100% of residents are covered by public insurance, which operates on a principle of solidarity: everyone contributes according to their income, and access to care is not conditioned by age, gender, or income level.
The “e‑card” and Panel Doctors
As soon as you work or are affiliated with social security, you receive an e‑card, an electronic card that serves as proof of insurance and also includes the European Health Insurance Card. You present it for each consultation with a panel doctor (Kassenarzt or Alle Kassen), which provides near‑full coverage.
Discover the different types of care included in your coverage.
Consultations with your general practitioner or specialist, in office or at home.
Coverage during a hospital stay, including surgery and accommodation.
Laboratory tests, X‑rays, CT scans, and other medical imaging.
Medications dispensed at pharmacies with a medical prescription.
Routine care, scaling, fillings, and in some cases, dentures.
Glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids depending on contract conditions.
– general medicine and specialists;
– hospitalization;
– preventive exams;
– maternity care and basic dental and vision care;
– prescription drugs (with a flat co‑payment per medication).
Waiting times for consultations remain relatively moderate, averaging around ten minutes, though some specialties may be more saturated.
Private Supplemental Insurance: Comfort Rather Than Necessity
Private insurance is optional. A minority of residents take it out for comfort benefits: access to certain non‑panel doctors, reduced waiting times for non‑urgent procedures, a private room in the hospital, better dental coverage, etc. Premiums are no longer income‑based but risk‑based (age, health status), with costs easily exceeding €200 per month.
For non‑European expats, international private health insurance is often mandatory to obtain a visa or residence permit. It has the advantage of providing coverage when traveling outside Austria. However, for everyday life on the ground, the Austrian public healthcare system is generally sufficient to cover essential needs.
Education: A High‑Performing, Highly Structured System
School is compulsory for nine years, from ages 6 to 15. The state funds nearly the entire public system through the Ministry of Education, while the states manage the schools. Student performance is above the European average, with low inequality… except for children from immigrant backgrounds, who are more exposed to grade repetition and dropout.
Early Tracking and Strong Vocational Tracks
After four years of primary school (Volksschule), students choose a path: general secondary education or the start of the academic track with the equivalent of middle/high school (Gymnasium). This choice, around age 10, has major consequences, even though bridges exist later.
Between ages 10 and 18, secondary education comes in several options:
– general secondary schools (Neue Mittelschule);
– pre‑vocational schools and apprentice schools (Berufsschule) in a dual system, highly valued;
– higher technical or commercial secondary schools (BHS), combining general education and vocational training;
– the Gymnasium track, which prepares for the Matura, the secondary school leaving exam that grants access to university.
The weight of vocational education is remarkable: over 80% of 15–19‑year‑olds are in vocational or dual tracks, highly integrated into the economic and industrial fabric.
The Role of International Schools for Expats
For expatriate families, the public system is of a high standard but can be challenging if children do not speak German. Bilingual or international schools (English‑speaking, French‑speaking, etc.) are numerous in Vienna and a few other large cities, but their tuition fees are high, ranging from €5,000 to €50,000 per year or more for boarding schools.
The choice between a French school and a local school in Germany presents a cultural dilemma: prioritizing continuity of the original curriculum or fostering linguistic and social integration. In any case, mastering German is a key asset for continuing studies and accessing the job market.
Cost of Living and Purchasing Power: A Subtle Balance
Austria is among the most expensive countries in Europe for the cost of living, but in return offers decent salaries, a powerful subsidized housing system, and relatively moderate prices for food, especially fresh and organic products.
Some Key Figures
To better gauge the standard of living, it is useful to compare some orders of magnitude.
Average Monthly Cost (Order of Magnitude)
| Profile | Estimated total monthly cost (rent included) |
|---|---|
| Single person | Around €1,900 to €2,200 |
| Family of four | Around €4,600 to €5,200 |
| Student | Around €1,200 |
The average net salary is around €2,500–2,600 per month, with a notable particularity: most employees receive 14 salaries per year, with the 13th and 14th being tax‑advantaged (vacation and Christmas pay).
Housing and Transport
| Item | Average level (order of magnitude) |
|---|---|
| Rent 1‑bedroom city center (national average) | ~€870 / month |
| Rent 3‑bedroom outside center (national average) | ~€1,240–1,330 / month |
| Local transport pass (monthly) | ~€50–51 |
| Annual all‑transport pass in Austria (Klimaticket) | ~€1,180 per year (~€98 / month) |
The expenditure structure highlights a significant housing cost, but relatively contained compared to some neighbors, especially thanks to social housing, and very reasonable transport costs for such a developed country.
Daily Life Paced by Moderation
Austrians tend to favor a balanced consumption style: little ostentation, attention to value for money, a strong culture of organic and local products (Austria is among the European champions of organic farming). Farmers’ markets, weekly supermarket promotions, and second‑hand shopping are deeply ingrained habits.
To better absorb the general price level, it is advisable to adopt several strategies: plan your shopping in advance, use available transport passes, and take advantage of social housing networks when possible.
Immigration, Integration, and Expectations of Newcomers
Austria hosts a significant foreign population: about one in four residents is of non‑Austrian nationality. The German, American, Romanian, British, Turkish, and Balkan communities are particularly visible.
A Structured… and Demanding Integration Policy
For third‑country nationals (non‑EU/EEA/Switzerland), obtaining a residence permit comes with an integration agreement that requires, depending on the case, acquiring an A1 then B1 level in German, as well as basic knowledge of Austrian institutions and legal system. These requirements are formalized in two modules and condition access to certain long‑term residence statuses and, eventually, citizenship.
Beyond administrative obligations, society expects newcomers to respect a set of implicit norms:
– strict respect for laws and rules (parking, noise, waste, taxes, etc.);
– learning, at minimum, the basics of German;
– gradual understanding of social codes, especially regarding politeness, punctuality, and respect for public spaces.
Tensions and Perceptions Around Immigration
In recent years, political debates have become tense around migration issues and Islam. Some parties capitalize on anti‑immigration rhetoric, which can locally translate into a certain distrust of newcomers, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
Expatriates generally enjoy a high quality of life, a strong sense of security, and a good level of tolerance, especially in large cities. However, successful integration requires strict adherence to local rules and norms.
What Might Surprise an Expat… and How to Adapt
From expatriate testimonies, a few “culture shocks” come up regularly.
The Mixture of Warmth and Distance
Austrians can seem cold at first: little gratuitous smiling, marked reserve, a formality that feels stiff. But once you get past the first layer, relationships become stable, lasting, reliable. Friendship is not built in a few days, but once forged, it endures.
You need to accept this slower pace for building your social network, by multiplying opportunities for encounters: sports clubs, associations, hiking groups, language courses, expat communities, volunteering.
Rigor in Public Spaces
Whether it’s respecting a pedestrian red light even when no car is coming, waiting patiently in line without cutting, or scrupulously separating your waste, Austria applies a very regulated vision of communal life. Behaviors considered trivial elsewhere (loud music, repeated lateness, lack of discretion) can earn you reprimands or fines.
This rigor generates a strong sense of safety, overall cleanliness of cities and natural areas, and a high level of trust in institutions.
The Weight of the Mountains and Nature
Finally, a major cultural aspect is the relationship with nature. Over 65% of the territory lies in the Alps. Hiking, skiing, cycling, swimming in lakes: Austrians spend a huge amount of time outdoors, with family or friends. Integrating also means accepting to put on hiking boots or skis, even if you are not a big sportsperson, to share these moments of alpine Gemütlichkeit.
Conclusion: Settling in Austria, an Implicit Pact
Moving to Austria is not just about learning a few German words and finding an apartment. It means accepting an implicit pact with a highly structured society that values:
– formal politeness and the use of titles;
– near‑sacred punctuality;
– a clear separation between private and professional life;
– respect for common rules, the environment, and quiet;
– seriousness at work, but also a real work‑life balance.
In exchange, Austria offers rare security, an outstanding quality of life, robust healthcare and education systems, accessible housing thanks to proactive policies, spectacular nature, and a rich cultural heritage.
Understanding these differences before you leave not only helps you avoid missteps, but above all allows you to fully enjoy what the country has to offer. Adaptation takes time, curiosity, and a real willingness to learn the language and local codes. But for those who play the game, the reward is commensurate: the chance to put down lasting roots in a country that, behind its apparent reserve, knows how to welcome those who respect its rules and share its taste for stability, conviviality, and the beauty of everyday life.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
