Living in Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a small European country nestled between Switzerland and Austria. Despite its tiny size, Liechtenstein has grown into one of the wealthiest nations in the world with the highest GDP per capita. This high quality of life, political stability, picturesque villages, and central European location attract many expats to live in Liechtenstein. This guide covers everything you need to know about living in this unique Alpine microstate.

Why Move to Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein offers a number of compelling benefits for expats considering a move:

• Extremely high standard of living and quality of life. Liechtenstein regularly tops rankings for both.
• Low crime rate makes it one of the safest places to live in the world. Violent crime is minimal.
• Stunning natural landscapes from the Rhine River to the Alpine mountains. Outdoor recreation abounds with hiking, biking, and winter sports.
• Central European location makes it easy to travel to Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and beyond.
• Tax advantages including low business taxes. The personal income tax is a flat rate under 15%.
• Politically and economically stable. Modern infrastructure and services on par with neighboring Switzerland.
• Strong privacy and data protection laws. A haven for personal and financial privacy.
• High-income economy with abundance of jobs in sectors like manufacturing, finance, services and trade.
• Family-friendly culture makes it an appealing choice for raising children.

Living in Liechtenstein: Pros and Cons

While the high quality of life is a major plus, there are some potential disadvantages to weigh when considering Liechtenstein:

Pros :

1. Incredibly safe, stable country
2. Scenic natural beauty
3. Central European location
4. Low income taxes
5. High salaries compared to cost of living
6. Modern infrastructure and amenities
7. Prestigious, discreet banking culture
8. Tight-knit, family-oriented communities
9. Outdoor recreation like skiing, hiking and biking

Cons :

1. Very high cost of living, especially housing
2. Limited number of grocery stores and shops
3. Not as cosmopolitan as neighboring countries
4. Can feel isolated or boring for some people
5. Property ownership restricted to citizens
6. Long process to obtain residency or citizenship
7. Small job market lacking diversity
8. Public medical insurance has high premiums
9. Landlocked country with no coastline

As one of the richest but smallest sovereign states in the world, there are certainly some accessibility challenges. But the breathtaking landscapes, elegant villages, and excellent public services prove alluring to many.

The Cost of Living in Liechtenstein: A Comprehensive Guide

The cost of living in Liechtenstein is high, even by Swiss and Austrian standards. Housing, in particular, is a major expense. Here is a breakdown of typical costs:

Housing

• Renting starts around 2,000 CHF ($2,100 USD) per month for a 1-2 bedroom unit.
• Properties for purchase average 1-4 million CHF ($1-4 million).

Groceries

• Expect to pay 50-100% more for food and staples than neighboring countries.
• Groceries average 500 CHF ($525 USD) per month for two.

Dining Out

• Meal prices are similar to Switzerland.
• Sit-down restaurants cost 30-60 CHF ($30-60 USD) per person.

Childcare

• Like other costs, childcare is expensive at 2,000-4,000 CHF ($2,100-4,200 USD) per month for full-time care.

Transportation

• Public transportation is reasonable starting around 40 CHF ($40 USD) for a monthly pass.
• Cars are pricey to purchase and fuel costs 1.5-2 CHF per liter.

Healthcare

• Public insurance has high premiums of 400-500 CHF ($420-525 USD) monthly for basic coverage.
• Private plans provide more choice.

Taxes

• Income tax is a flat rate under 15% for high incomes.
• VAT (sales tax) is 7.7%. Social contributions are below 10%.

Utilities

• Internet costs around 50 CHF ($50 USD). Electricity is around 0.20 CHF ($0.20 USD) per kWh.
• Garbage collection fees apply.

Liechtenstein offers very high salaries and low taxes that help offset the steep prices. But expect everything from groceries to housing to cost considerably more.

Quality of Life in Liechtenstein

Despite the high costs, Liechtensteiners enjoy an exceptional quality of life:

1. Safety – There is virtually no violent crime, with one of the lowest crime rates worldwide. Police unions state no citizens carry guns.
2. Healthcare – Healthcare regularly ranks among the best globally in terms of positive outcomes. Insurance ensures affordable access.
3. Environment – Liechtenstein has high air quality, low pollution, and policies prioritizing sustainability and natural spaces.
4. Standard of Living – Exceptional infrastructure, strong economy, modern amenities and purchasing power provide comfort and stability.
5. Work-Life Balance – Employees enjoy generous leave policies, limited overtime, and a family-oriented culture with time for leisure.
6. Education – The education system produces some of the highest global scores in key subjects like math and sciences.
7. Equality – Women enjoy the same rights and opportunities as men. Discrimination based on race, religion, orientation or the like is prohibited.
8. Government Services – Citizens have access to high-quality government services from utilities to healthcare to arts and recreation.

Achieving such a high bar does come at a literal cost. But those who can afford it gain excellent standards across measurable quality of life indicators.

A Beginner’s Guide to Liechtenstein Culture

Liechtenstein culture is influenced by its German roots and Alpine traditions:

• The official language is German. Most speak English as well.
• Traditional cuisine features cheese, meat, bread, stews, dumplings, strudel pastries and beer.
• Liechtensteiners tend to be more formal and conservative, valuing privacy and discretion.
• Village festivals that celebrate customs like costume parades, music, and food are popular.
• Outdoor sports are very common, including hiking, skiing, cycling, and mountain climbing.
• Arts like theatre, music, and fine arts are generously funded by the government to enrich society.
• Religion plays a larger role than in some European countries, especially Catholicism.
• Families are central to society. Households often include extended family members.
• Highly industrialized and business oriented, especially manufacturing, finance and research.
• Very small, tight-knit communities where most people know each other.

The culture balances Alpine tradition with modern affluence and business prowess. etiquette leans more formal.

Best Places to Live in Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein only has 11 municipalities, but each has its own character. Top places include:

1. Vaduz – The capital and largest city with half the population. Offers the most amenities as the cultural and economic hub.
2. Balzers – Second largest town, known for its wines and charming Old Town with hilltop castle ruins.
3. Triesenberg – Attractive resort town in the Alps with hiking trails and ski resort access.
4. Schaan – A smaller town with Roman ruins and one of the larger commercial areas.
5. Eschen – Centrally located in the Upper Country, Eschen has the friendly feel of a village with well-kept homes.
6. Triesen – This village has historic buildings, restaurants, and recreation like golf, swimming and tennis.

There are limited options in tiny Liechtenstein. But each municipality provides scenic views, charm, and accessibility to nature along with modern conveniences.

The luxurious lifestyle, beautiful landscapes, and ample amenities make Liechtenstein a top choice for those who can meet its high costs. Despite the small size, families and professionals alike can thrive in this unique European microstate.