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Living in Liechtenstein: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Liechtenstein | Expat Exchange
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Living in Liechtenstein

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 10, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Liechtenstein as peaceful, safe, and prosperous. Expats love the country's stunning natural beauty, its low crime rate, and its excellent infrastructure. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $3,000 to $4,000 per month. The population of Liechtenstein is estimated to be around 38,000 people. The largest cities in Liechtenstein are Vaduz, Schaan, Triesen, Balzers, and Eschen. The cons of living in Liechtenstein include the high cost of living, the small size of the country, and the limited job opportunities. Additionally, the country is not part of the European Union, so expats may have difficulty accessing certain services and benefits.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do I need to know about living in Liechtenstein?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Liechtenstein, they said:

"Before retiring in Liechtenstein, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other countries in Europe. Additionally, Liechtenstein is a small country with a population of only 38,000 people, so expats should be prepared to live in a close-knit community. Expats should also be aware that Liechtenstein is a German-speaking country, so it is important to have a basic understanding of the language. Furthermore, Liechtenstein has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate, so expats should be prepared to find a job if they wish to stay in the country. Finally, expats should be aware that Liechtenstein has a high standard of living, so they should be prepared to pay higher taxes than in other countries," commented one expat who made the move to Liechtenstein.

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How do I meet people in Liechtenstein?

When we asked people living in Liechtenstein about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Liechtenstein can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language clubs, and cultural clubs. Expats can also join local meetup groups, which are a great way to meet people with similar interests. Additionally, expats can attend local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending church services, volunteering, or joining a local gym," said one expat who made the move to Liechtenstein.

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We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.

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Universal Tax Professionals

We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.

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What is life like in Liechtenstein?

When we asked people living in Liechtenstein what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Liechtenstein is a small, landlocked country located between Switzerland and Austria, and is a great destination for expats and digital nomads. The country is known for its stunning alpine scenery, low taxes, and high quality of life. Expats and digital nomads in Liechtenstein can enjoy a safe and secure environment, with excellent infrastructure and a high standard of living. The country is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and cuisine. Liechtenstein is a great place to live and work, with plenty of opportunities for networking and collaboration. The country is also well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it easy to travel and explore the region," remarked one expat living in Liechtenstein.

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Is there a lot of crime in Liechtenstein?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Liechtenstein is generally considered to be a very safe country with low levels of crime. The country has a very low rate of violent crime and property crime is also relatively rare. The government of Liechtenstein has taken steps to ensure that the country remains safe, including increasing police presence and introducing new laws to combat organized crime," said one expat who made the move to Liechtenstein.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Liechtenstein accepting of differences?

"Liechtenstein is a small, landlocked country in the heart of Europe, and its population is relatively homogenous. However, there is a small but growing diversity in the country, with a small number of immigrants from other European countries, as well as a small number of refugees. People in Liechtenstein are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a strong commitment to human rights and equality," remarked one expat living in Liechtenstein.

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We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Universal Tax ProfessionalsUniversal Tax Professionals

We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
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What are the schools in Liechtenstein like?

"The International School Liechtenstein (ISL) is one of the best international schools in Liechtenstein. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. ISL offers a rigorous academic program with a strong emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and global citizenship. The Liechtenstein International Bilingual School (LIBS) is another excellent school in Liechtenstein. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering a bilingual curriculum in German and English for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. LIBS is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with a strong emphasis on the development of language skills, cultural understanding, and global citizenship. The Liechtenstein International School of Business (LISB) is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering a business-focused curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. LISB offers a rigorous academic program with a strong emphasis on the development of business and financial skills, entrepreneurship, and global citizenship," commented one expat when asked about in Liechtenstein.

Is the cost of living in Liechtenstein high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Liechtenstein, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Liechtenstein is generally considered to be high, with prices for basic goods and services being comparable to those in other European countries. Housing costs are particularly high, with rental prices for apartments in the capital city of Vaduz being among the highest in Europe. Groceries and other everyday items are also expensive, although the cost of dining out is relatively low. Transportation costs are also high, with petrol prices being among the highest in Europe," said one expat who made the move to Liechtenstein.

"The cost of living in Liechtenstein is generally high, with prices for goods and services being higher than in many other countries. The capital city of Vaduz and the ski resort of Malbun tend to have the highest costs of living, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Liechtenstein is around $1,500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $2,000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Liechtenstein can cost around $30 USD per person," mentioned one expat inLiechtenstein.

What type of recreational facilities are in Liechtenstein?

When we asked people living in Liechtenstein about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Liechtenstein offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. Outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing are popular in the country's mountainous terrain. There are also several lakes and rivers for swimming, fishing, and boating. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Liechtenstein has several parks and gardens, as well as a number of museums and galleries. Additionally, Liechtenstein has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants," remarked one expat living in Liechtenstein.

What is the weather like in Liechtenstein?

"Liechtenstein has a temperate climate with mild summers and cold winters. The average temperature in summer is around 20°C and in winter it can drop to -5°C. The country experiences a lot of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and August. Snowfall is common in the winter months, especially in the higher elevations," mentioned one expat inLiechtenstein.

Are there good restaurants in Liechtenstein?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Liechtenstein is the Restaurant Schatzmann, located in the heart of Vaduz. This restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Swiss and Liechtenstein cuisine, as well as international dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a friendly staff, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. https://www.schatzmann.li/ Another popular restaurant in Liechtenstein is the Restaurant Schlosswald, located in the village of Triesen. This restaurant specializes in traditional Liechtenstein cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, as well as a selection of wines and beers. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. https://www.schlosswald.li/," said one expat living in Liechtenstein.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Liechtenstein?

"People living in Liechtenstein typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty stores. There are also a variety of markets and shops in the country's towns and villages, offering a wide range of products. Additionally, online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Liechtenstein, with many stores offering delivery services," mentioned one expat inLiechtenstein.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Liechtenstein?

"In order to visit Liechtenstein, citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not need a visa. Citizens of other countries may need to apply for a Schengen visa. The application process for a Schengen visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds. In order to apply for residency in Liechtenstein, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, and a criminal record check. Applicants must also provide proof of accommodation in Liechtenstein, such as a rental agreement or a purchase contract. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit," remarked one expat in Liechtenstein.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Liechtenstein?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Liechtenstein are generally considered to be expensive. The cost of healthcare is high due to the country's small size and limited resources. Health insurance premiums are also high, as the country has a mandatory health insurance system that requires all residents to have health insurance coverage. Despite the high costs, Liechtenstein has a high quality of healthcare and a well-developed healthcare system," commented one expat who moved to Liechtenstein.

Universal Tax Professionals

We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.

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Universal Tax Professionals

We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.

Learn MoreConnect

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

US tax firm specializing in US taxes for Americans living abroad.
Learn More

Universal Tax ProfessionalsUniversal Tax Professionals

US tax firm specializing in US taxes for Americans living abroad.
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