Who is still eligible for subsidized housing in Vienna?

Von . - 14.10.2025 11:14 (Akt. 14.10.2025 12:40)

Verschiedene Kriterien entscheiden über die Vergabe von gefördertem Wohnraum in Wien. ©APA/GEORG HOCHMUTH (Symbolbild)

In times of rising rents, affordable housing is increasingly becoming a social issue. Especially in Vienna, where more than 60 percent of people live in subsidized housing, social housing plays a central role. But who actually still qualifies for a subsidized apartment today?

The requirements to obtain subsidized housing in Vienna are clearly regulated, but are repeatedly adjusted: income limits, main residence obligation, and the duration of stay in Vienna determine who gets a chance. In May 2025, new regulations came into effect with the "New Housing Allocation". Here is an overview of who still qualifies for subsidized housing in Vienna.

Main Criteria for Eligibility for Subsidized Housing in Vienna

Age & Residence Requirements

Mindestens 18 Jahre alt (früheste Anmeldung ab 17)
Hauptwohnsitz in Wien: für geförderte Mietwohnungen und Genossenschaftswohnungen seit 2 Jahren ununterbrochen, seit Mai 2025 unabhängig von Adressen in Wien, zuvor an einer Wiener Adresse

Income Limits

Für Miet‑ und Genossenschaftswohnungen (bis 31. Dezember 2025 gültig):
- 1 Person: bis 59.320 Euro
- 2 Pers.: 88.400 Euro
- 3 Pers.: 100.030 Euro
- 4 Pers.: 111.660 Euro
- Jede weitere Person: +6.510 Euro
Für geförderte Eigentumswohnungen gelten leicht höhere Obergrenzen (z. B. Einzelperson: bis zu 65.820 Euro)
Angestellte müssen den Jahreslohnzettel des Vorjahres sowie die Gehaltszettel der letzten drei Monate vorlegen. Selbstständige benötigen den Einkommenssteuerbescheid des letzten veranlagten Kalenderjahres.

Urgent Housing Need

Es muss ein nachgewiesener Bedarf bestehen (z. B. Überbelegung, gesundheitliche Gründe, Alter, beruflicher Ortswechsel, Alleinerziehung etc.), insbesondere für Gemeindewohnungen
Nach dem Einzug ist die Aufgabe der Vorwohnung innerhalb von 6 Monaten Pflicht

Citizenship & Household

Österreichische Staatsbürgerschaft oder gleichgestellter Status (z. B. EU/EWR, anerkannte Flüchtlinge)
Zusammenlebende Personen (Paar, Familie) müssen gemeinsam anmelden. Einzelhaushalte gelten ebenso

Special Subsidies & Bonus Criteria

Bonuspunkte für bereits lange in Wien Lebende (z. B. 3 Monate pro 5 Jahre Wohnsitz, max. 9 Monate)
Seit Mai  2025 werden zudem Haushalte mit hohen Wohnkosten durch Wohn‑ oder Mietbeihilfe bevorzugt

"Apartment Allocation NEW" for Subsidized Housing in Vienna

With the introduction of the "Apartment Allocation NEW" since May 2025, the main residence in Vienna is required for access to a municipal apartment or a subsidized apartment, regardless of the number of registered addresses. Additionally, a new allocation category supports households affected by inflation. It is aimed at people who can no longer afford their housing costs despite working. A positive decision for the new housing allowance or rent allowance is required.

Central Vienna Housing Ticket for Allocation of Subsidized Housing in Vienna from 2026

From next year, a central Vienna housing ticket is intended to simplify access to affordable housing by merging municipal apartments and subsidized apartments. Those seeking housing can register for both types of housing with a single ticket. A flexible system of (bonus) points replaces the previous fixed housing needs reasons to better consider individual life situations.

Subsidized housing is to be made more accessible from 2026, for example, for people in education, with family growth, or when life situations change. Independent living is also to be supported in old age: Barrier-free apartments and home care are specifically promoted. Unlimited rental contracts are intended to provide long-term security, especially now when many private rental contracts are limited. Additionally, those who have lived in Vienna for a long time continue to have an advantage in apartment allocation, as the Vienna bonus remains. More information is available here.

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