Graz vs. Kaunas: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

This report provides a detailed comparison of the cost of living and quality of life between Graz, Austria, and Kaunas, Lithuania, based on data from 2026. The analysis covers key factors such as housing, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and environmental conditions. While Graz has a higher cost of living, it offers a higher quality of life with better environmental conditions and healthcare. Kaunas is more affordable but has lower quality of life metrics, particularly regarding pollution and commute times.

Housing is one of the most significant factors in the cost of living. In Graz, the average price per square meter for an apartment in the city center is €4,802, compared to €3,803 in Kaunas. For a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center, Graz averages €3,402 per square meter, while Kaunas is slightly lower at €2,276. Monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in Graz is €1,950, versus €686 in Kaunas. While housing in Kaunas is more affordable, the difference is most pronounced in property prices, with Graz being nearly 25% higher.

Groceries in Graz are more expensive overall. A monthly household budget for groceries in Graz is €850, compared to €550 in Kaunas. Fast food meals and dining out are also more costly in Graz, with a two-person meal at a mid-range restaurant costing €60 on average, versus €30 in Kaunas. Additionally, utility costs for a standard 85 m² apartment are €200 in Graz versus €227 in Kaunas.

Transportation costs are lower in Kaunas. A monthly public transport pass costs €75 in Kaunas versus €100 in Graz. However, the commute time is longer in Kaunas, averaging 30 minutes compared to 20 minutes in Graz. A monthly car payment for a standard sedan is €300 in Kaunas versus €350 in Graz.

Healthcare quality is significantly higher in Graz, with a healthcare index of 92/100 versus 85/100 in Kaunas. Emergency services are faster in Graz, with an average response time of 15 minutes compared to 20 minutes in Kaunas. Safety is also better in Graz, with a safety index of 88/100 versus 80/100 in Kaunas.

Graz has a much better environmental quality, with a pollution index of 35/100 versus 65/100 in Kaunas. Green spaces are more abundant in Graz, with an average of 15 parks per 100,000 residents compared to 5 in Kaunas. The climate in Graz is also more temperate, with fewer extreme weather events.

The average monthly salary in Graz is €3,200, while in Kaunas it is €2,000. However, the cost of living in Kaunas is lower, meaning that residents can save more money even with a lower salary. Employment opportunities are similar in both cities, with both offering a mix of public and private sector jobs.

Graz offers a higher quality of life with better healthcare, safety, and environmental conditions, but at a higher cost of living. Kaunas is more affordable, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing budget savings. The choice between the two cities depends on individual priorities—those seeking a higher quality of life may prefer Graz, while those prioritizing affordability may choose Kaunas.