Living and working in Austria: Your move made easy with KOCH Moving Logistics

Austria fascinates with an impressive blend of majestic Alpine nature, rich cultural heritage and one of the highest qualities of life in Europe. For many emigrants, moving to the Alpine republic becomes an exciting career step – and KOCH Moving Logistics stands by your side as a reliable partner. Discover what makes living and working in Austria so special.

Austria ranks among the wealthiest countries in Europe and offers German skilled professionals attractive career opportunities, a good salary level by European comparison, and an exceptional quality of life. No wonder Austria is one of the most popular emigration destinations for Germans – every year around 20,000 Germans move to the Alpine republic. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, access to the labour market for Germans is completely straightforward.

The Austrian labour market is stable: the number of employees is rising towards four million, and the unemployment rate is stabilising at around 6.5%. The skills shortage remains high – qualified workers are particularly in demand in crafts, hospitality, electrical engineering and IT. The average gross salary is around €51,185 per year – with significant regional differences: the best salaries are paid in Vienna, Vorarlberg and Upper Austria. At the same time, the cost of living is moderate compared to Germany, which is an additional incentive for many emigrants.

Austrian work culture is characterised by strict punctuality (in Austria: "Five minutes early is the Austrian's punctuality"), flat hierarchies with direct, open communication, and a high regard for initiative and personal reliability. At the same time, great importance is placed on a healthy work‑life balance – weekends and leisure time are consistently used for family, recreation and nature. The statutory holiday entitlement of five weeks (25 working days based on a five‑day week) as well as many bridge days and public holidays also support this. This combination of professionalism and quality of life – where a good working atmosphere (more important than salary for almost three quarters of employees) and appreciation are key – makes Austria particularly attractive for international skilled professionals.

Austrian labour law differs from German law in several key respects. The statutory probation period is generally one month and can be extended to a maximum of three months. During this period, the employment relationship can be terminated by either side at any time without notice. Thereafter, ordinary notice periods depend on length of service: in the first and second years, the notice period is six weeks; from the third year, two months; from the sixth year, three months; from the 16th year, four months; and from the 26th year, five months. The maximum weekly working time may not exceed an average of 48 hours, or up to 60 hours in individual weeks, with flexible working time models such as flexitime, trust‑based working hours or the four‑day week being common in many industries. Women are entitled to statutory maternity protection from eight weeks before to eight weeks after birth (for high‑risk pregnancies, multiple births or caesarean sections, the protection period extends to 16 weeks), and fathers have the option of parental leave and the "Papamonat" – one month of paid special leave.

The statutory normal working hours are 40 hours per week(deviations possible within collective agreements). Statutory holiday entitlement is at least five weeks per year (25 working days based on a five‑day week). Notice periods depend on length of service: during the one‑month probation period, it is 14 days; in the first year of service, one month to the end of the month; from the second to the fifth year, two months; from the sixth to the 15th year, three months; and from the 16th year, four months to the end of the month or quarter.

Austria may be small, but its cultural diversity is great. From the baroque old towns of Vienna and Salzburg, to the traditional Alpine pastures in Tyrol and Vorarlberg, to the idyllic lake landscapes of the Salzkammergut – you will encounter unique customs, dialects and ways of life everywhere. Well‑known traditions include the Vienna Opera Ball, the the Salzburg Festival, the Villach church days , and the cattle drive in autumn. UNESCO intangible cultural heritage includes Austrian coffee house culture, the classical equestrian art of the Spanish Riding School, and the "Samsontragen" in the Lungau region. At the same time, Austria is a cosmopolitan, modern country: numerous museums such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Museum of Modern Art (MUMOK) in Vienna, international music festivals such as the Danube Island Festival and the renowned Ars Electronica in Linz, and a thriving creative scene make Austria culturally highly attractive for emigrants.

Austria's high quality of life is the result of an intact environment, comprehensive healthcare and an excellent education system. The crime rate is low, cities are clean and safe, and public life is characterised by a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

The cost of living in Austria is slightly above the German level by European comparison, but remains within a moderate range. Operating costs for an average rented apartment are somewhat lower than in comparable German cities. Popular target regions for emigrants include Burgenland (low cost of living, quiet landscapes), Carinthia (ideal mix of nature and moderate prices), as well as the cities of Graz and Linz, which offer a high quality of life at reasonable rental prices.

In the workplace, punctuality is not only a virtue but an expression of respect. Communication is characterised by politeness and a clear distinction between formal and informal address. In a professional context, the formal "Sie" is often used, although hierarchies in many industries are flatter than in traditionally structured German companies. Work‑life balance also has a high priority: overtime is the exception, and leisure time is consistently used for family, friends and hobbies.

The public transport network is excellently developed. Austria's public transport system is considered one of the best in the European Union – a dense network of rail, bus and urban transport connections allows mobility without a car. The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) were among the most reliable railway operators in Europe in 2025, with a punctuality rate of around 95%.

Living in Austria can vary greatly depending on the federal state and city. From modern apartments in metropolises such as Vienna, Graz, Linz or Salzburg to rural single‑family homes in the Alps or Burgenland, there are numerous options. Understanding Austrian housing culture – particularly the often‑required household insurance and the usual one to three months' notice period – can help you settle in more quickly and enjoy your new home.

KOCH Moving Logistics supports you with your move to Austria with comprehensive services tailored to your needs. From planning to execution, our team ensures that your move runs smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: your new life and work in Austria.

• Personal advice: Individual solutions for your move.
• Logistics expertise: Efficient planning and implementation.
• Local network: Support with integration in Austria.

KOCH Moving Logistics not only offers standardised moving services but also places special emphasis on personal advice and tailor‑made solutions. Our experts are on hand at every stage of the moving process to ensure that all your needs are met. We help you to quickly find your feet in your new surroundings and offer support with administrative matters, such as registering with authorities and opening a bank account.

Experience the smooth transition to your new adventure with the comprehensive service of KOCH Moving Logistics. Whether it's packing your belongings or organising your new home, we are here for you. Contact us and start your move to Austria today!