Graz vs. Namur: Detailed 2026 Comparison

This report provides a detailed analysis comparing the cost of living and quality of life between Graz (in Austria) and Namur (in Luxembourg) based on 2026 data. While both cities offer distinct advantages, significant differences emerge across various categories. Graz generally presents a lower cost of living, particularly concerning groceries, transportation, and childcare expenses. However, Namur boasts a higher average net salary and a slightly higher GDP per capita, suggesting potentially better economic opportunities. Conversely, Graz tends to score marginally higher in certain quality-of-life indicators like healthcare access (as reflected in lower accident rates) and environmental quality (fewer traffic-related deaths). Namur, however, faces challenges in affordability, especially regarding housing and childcare, and reports slightly lower quality-of-life metrics in healthcare and environment. This overview sets the stage for a deeper dive into specific cost categories, housing, economic factors, and quality-of-life aspects. When examining the economic landscape and basic living expenses, the two cities show stark contrasts. Graz demonstrates a significantly lower cost of living in most fundamental categories. Groceries are substantially cheaper, daily transportation costs are lower, and even the most basic utilities for an 85m² apartment are considerably more affordable. Furthermore, Graz offers the most affordable housing market, with property prices being up to four times lower than in Namur. Critically, the average net salary in Graz is considerably lower ($2,142 vs. $2,700 USD equivalent), yet the overall cost structure allows for a larger disposable income due to the lower expense base. In contrast, Namur presents a much higher cost structure. While the average net salary is higher ($2,700 vs. $2,142 USD equivalent), this is offset by significantly more expensive groceries, transportation, and childcare. The most expensive housing market in the comparison also puts a heavy strain on the budget, with property prices nearly four times higher than in Graz. The economic picture for Namur is characterized by higher earning potential but substantially higher essential living costs, particularly housing. The quality of life indicators and specific cost factors paint a complex picture. Graz shows a slight edge in healthcare access, reflected in its lower reported rate of traffic accident fatalities and lower accident rate. It also has a lower rate of traffic-related deaths, suggesting a potentially safer environment in these specific metrics. For families, Graz is significantly more budget-friendly, with childcare costs being substantially lower ($400 vs. $1,695 USD equivalent per month). Namur, while having a slightly higher GDP per capita ($64,200 vs. $56,700 USD equivalent), reports slightly lower quality-of-life metrics in healthcare access and environmental safety (higher traffic fatalities and accident rates). The city also struggles significantly with childcare affordability, placing it among the most expensive categories in the comparison. While Namur offers higher salaries and potentially slightly better healthcare access on paper, the practical impact of its high living costs, especially childcare, and slightly lower environmental/safety scores, presents a different reality for residents. From a career and

Pollution Index

37.6 / 46.9

Safety Index

72.5 / 47.1

Graz   Namur

Traffic Commute Time Index

28.6 / 37.5

Graz   Namur