Austria vs Norway
Austria costs roughly 14% less than Norway. Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Austria is approximately 14% less expensive than Norway based on cost of living including rent. This makes Austria a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Austria has a FIRE Score of 39/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The country's safety index is 70.5, which is relatively safe.
Recommended profile: Austria is well-suited for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.
About Austria
Austria has a digital nomad visa available or a fast path to citizenship, neither exists here. High earners also face a 55% top tax rate above EUR 1M. But retirees clearing EUR 2,548/mo qualify for a settlement permit, and with a 70.5 safety index and strong healthcare, it suits those prioritizing stability over low taxes or easy paperwork.
$774/mo
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About Norway
Best for digital nomads thanks to its Independent Contractor Visa — one of few clear legal paths for remote workers in Europe. Safety Index of 67 and US Travel Advisory Level 1 mean crime rates far below most US metros, while healthcare is excellent (life expectancy 82.9 years) and English proficiency high. The catch: housing costs ($1,348 for a 1BR in city center) and a progressive tax up to 38.2% make it expensive, and the visa can lead to permanent residence.
$266/mo
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Living Costs (excl. rent)
Rent Per Month
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Country Details →Battle of Lifestyles
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| Metric | Austria | Norway |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Advisory | Level 1: Normal Precautions | Level 1: Normal Precautions |
| Quality of Life Index | 192.9 | 195 +2.1 |
| Healthcare Index | 77.9 +2.3 | 75.6 |
| Safety Index | 70.5 +3.5 | 67 |
| Cost of Living Index | 60.7 +8.3 | 69 |
| Living Costs (Single, excl. rent) | $1,223.3 +163.1 | $1,386.4 |
| Living Costs (Family, excl. rent) | $4,250.6 +743.2 | $4,993.8 |
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $1,002.63 +345.46 | $1,348.09 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $817.87 +252.29 | $1,070.16 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $1,814.94 +283.29 | $2,098.23 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $1,455.52 +234.71 | $1,690.23 |
| Avg Internet Speed | 199.98 Mbps +28.4 | 171.54 Mbps |
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Income thresholds, fees, processing time and residency paths for Austria and Norway, side by side.
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