AUSTRIA AND VILLACH IN NUMBERS - A LOOK BACK AT 2024
CULTURE AND HOSPITALITY
Austria Named Friendliest Country in Europe for the First Time.
In the Condé Nast Traveller 2024 Readers' Choice Awards, Austria claimed the top spot as the friendliest European country, dethroning last year's winner, Ireland. This marks Austria's debut on the list, with readers praising the welcoming atmosphere and hospitality throughout the country.
EXPAT LIFE
Austria Offers Top Quality of Life.
According to the Expat Insider 2024 Survey, Austria ranks 24th out of 53 countries for expat satisfaction. It shines in Quality of Life (2nd) and Working Abroad (10th), thanks to excellent infrastructure, healthcare, safety, and job security. Over 80% of expats feel financially secure, with disposable income meeting their needs.
INNOVATION
Austria ranks 17th among 133 economies in the 2024 Global Innovation Index, with a strong performance in innovation outputs (19th). It places 10th in Europe and 16th among high-income economies. Austria also has one science and technology cluster in the global top 100. In addition, the Alpine Republic has made progress in the Global Innovation Tracker, showing both improvements and areas for growth.
VILLACH DRIVES INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY LOCALLY
Taking these national strides further, Villach stands out as a model city for innovation and sustainability. The city is not only embracing Austria’s national goals but is also creating its impact through initiatives in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and family-friendly projects. Villach’s commitment to integrating these values into daily life showcases how Austria’s broader innovation landscape is being realized on a local level.
SUSTAINABILITY
Villach has earned e5 Gold status for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable mobility for the third time. This recognition highlights the city’s advancements in energy efficiency, climate protection, renewable energies, environmentally friendly mobility, and other sustainability initiatives, reinforcing its leadership in sustainability.
By winning the European Energy Award in Gold, Villach 2024 has also proven itself to be a climate pioneer city in a Europe-wide comparison. Only 64 out of 1,900 European municipalities were recognized for their continuous commitment to climate protection, energy efficiency, and renewable energies at the highest level.
FAMILY FRIENDLY INITIATIVES
In April 2024, Villach was re-certified as a ‘familienfreundliche Gemeinde’ (family-friendly municipality). Since 2014, the city has enhanced services for families, youth, and seniors. Notable initiatives include the ‘demenzfreundliche Gemeinde’ (dementia-friendly municipality) project and active Youth Council involvement, along with improvements like more green spaces and the family-friendly Panorama Beach.