Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 70)
Hernals sits in the western reaches of Vienna, a district shaped by a temperate continental climate with warm summers that can reach highs near 34°C and cold winters that dip to lows around -10°C. Humidity hovers near 72%, a level typical of Vienna's western districts, and the elevation is 180 m above sea level. The timezone is Europe/Vienna. Expats tend to settle in Dornbach and Gersthof, two neighborhoods within Hernals that offer a quieter residential feel while keeping the city within reach. The population is 57 thousand, and the overall expat score is 69/100, with a large and active expat community.
Living costs in Hernals reflect a city that is more affordable than many Western capitals. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for $1,200/mo, while outside the centre it drops to $950/mo. For larger households, a three-bedroom in the centre costs $2,250/mo, and outside the centre it is $1,750/mo. A single adult can expect a budget tier total of $2,250/mo including rent, a mid-range tier of $2,950/mo, and a comfortable tier of $4,100/mo. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $1,100/mo, and a family of four about $3,700/mo. The cost of living index is 69/100 with New York City at 100.
Safety is a strong point here, with a safety index of 85/100 and a crime index of 15/100, where lower is safer. Air quality is moderate, with an index of 45 where lower is better. Healthcare quality is rated excellent, giving residents confidence in medical services. Internet speeds average 110 Mbps, supporting remote work and daily connectivity. The expat score of 69/100 is joined by a FIRE score of 68/100, a retiree score of 67/100, and a digital nomad score of 69/100, suggesting a balanced profile across different lifestyles.
For longer stays, the settlement permit except gainful employment requires a minimum monthly income of $2,548/mo, and the Austria Digital Nomad Visa (Freelancer Visa) is available for independent workers. The nearest airport is VIE, located 13 km away. English proficiency is limited, so learning some German helps with daily life. Hernals suits expats who want a residential Vienna address with reasonable rents, strong safety, excellent healthcare, and a large active community, whether they are retiring, working remotely, or pursuing financial independence.
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A category breakdown is not available for Hernals yet. We publish a breakdown only when every category can be priced from local data, rather than showing figures we cannot stand behind.
Still needed for a full breakdown: grocery prices, restaurant prices and utility bills.
A 1BR in the center runs about $1200/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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See how Hernals's cost of living compares with Eisenstadt
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Hernals is a very safe residential district in Vienna's 17th district, with a Safety Index of 85 reflecting low violent crime and strong police presence. Petty theft and bike theft occur occasionally, particularly near transit hubs, but serious crime is rare. The neighborhood feels secure for daily life, with well-lit streets and active community engagement. Main precautions: standard urban awareness (securing valuables, avoiding isolated areas late at night) rather than specific crime concerns. For Americans accustomed to major U.S. cities, Hernals presents significantly lower risk and is an excellent choice for remote workers or retirees seeking a peaceful, orderly environment.
See how Hernals's healthcare compares with Eisenstadt
Hernals experiences a temperate continental climate with warm summers (highs ~34°C) and cold winters (lows ~-10°C), offering distinct seasons with moderate humidity (72%) typical of Vienna's western districts.
Part of Vienna, offering cultural experiences with all modern necessities.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Sektor5 | Located in the neighboring Josefstadt district, Sektor5 is a popular coworking space known for its community and events, making it ideal for expats looking to network. It offers various membership options and a creative atmosphere. |
| Regus Vienna Westbahnhof | While not directly in Hernals, Regus Vienna Westbahnhof is easily accessible and offers a reliable, professional environment. Its proximity to a major transportation hub makes it convenient for those exploring Vienna and beyond. |
| Impact Hub Vienna | Located in the 7th district (Neubau), Impact Hub Vienna is a well-known coworking space focused on social impact and innovation. It's a great option for digital nomads interested in connecting with like-minded individuals and participating in workshops and events. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Hernals long-term? Austria Digital Nomad Visa (Freelancer Visa) lets remote workers live legally.
View full requirements →Working remotely from Hernals? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
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See how Hernals's digital nomad life compares with Eisenstadt
Vienna's 17th district. It is very popular with expats for its mix of urban life and green space (Wienerwald).
Areas of Hernals that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Green, quiet, upscale residential
Neuwaldegg is known for its villas, green spaces, and proximity to the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods). It's a peaceful area popular with families and retirees seeking tranquility. Public transport is available, but owning a car is beneficial. Expect higher prices and a more suburban feel.
Village-like, relaxed, family-oriented
Dornbach retains a village-like atmosphere with Heurigen (wine taverns) and local shops. It's a good option for those seeking a quieter, more authentic Viennese experience. While not as central, it's well-connected by trams and buses. It's a bit less international than other areas, but still welcoming.
Bustling, convenient, local shopping
The area around Hernalser Hauptstraße, the main street, offers a mix of shops, restaurants, and apartments. It's a convenient location with good public transport links. While not specifically geared towards expats, it provides an authentic Viennese living experience at a more affordable price point. Some German language skills are helpful here.
Residential, green, slightly elevated
Located along the Alszeile, this area offers a mix of apartment buildings and green spaces. It's a more residential area with a slightly elevated position, offering some nice views. Public transport is good, and it's a pleasant area for walking and cycling. It's a good balance of quiet living with easy access to the city center.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1200/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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