Building Savings in Austria 2025: The Complete Guide to Bausparen
Everything about building savings (Bausparen) in Austria 2025: 1.5% state premium, current interest rates, all 4 building societies compared, and tips for your contract.
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Building savings (Bausparen) is one of the most popular savings options in Austria - and for good reason. With government subsidies, guaranteed interest rates, and the option for affordable home financing, a building savings contract offers security in uncertain times. In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about building savings in 2025.
What is Bausparen (Building Savings)?
Bausparen is a government-subsidized savings scheme that has been established in Austria for decades. The principle is simple: you save a certain amount regularly, receive interest on your savings, and get a state premium on top. After a minimum term of 6 years, you can freely access your saved capital.
Benefits at a Glance
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| State Premium | 1.5% on deposits up to €1,200/year |
| Safe Investment | Guaranteed interest, no risk of loss |
| Tax-Free | Premium exempt from capital gains tax |
| Loan Option | Eligibility for affordable building loan |
The State Building Premium 2025
The building premium (Bausparprämie) is the heart of building savings. For 2025, the following conditions apply:
- Premium Rate: 1.5% per year
- Maximum subsidized savings: €1,200 per year
- Maximum Premium: €18 per year
- Tax Exemption: Premium is exempt from capital gains tax
Important: The building premium rate is set annually by the Ministry of Finance and is based on interest rate developments in the capital market. It can range between 1.5% (minimum) and 4% (maximum).
How the Premium is Calculated
With an annual deposit of €1,200, you receive:
- Premium: €1,200 × 1.5% = €18 per year
- Over 6 years: €108 in government subsidies
- Plus: Interest on your capital
The 4 Building Societies in Austria
Austria has four authorized building societies, all subject to the Building Society Act:
1. Raiffeisen Bausparkasse
The largest building society in Austria with the most extensive branch network. Benefits from the strong Raiffeisen Group and offers comprehensive on-site advice.
2. s Bausparkasse (Sparkassen)
The building society of Austrian savings banks with strong regional presence. Known for good customer service and solid conditions.
3. start:bausparkasse
The youngest and most innovative building society focusing on digital solutions. Particularly attractive for tech-savvy customers.
4. Wüstenrot Bausparkasse
International experience and flexible products. Part of the German Wüstenrot Group with a long tradition in building savings.
Current Interest Rates 2025
Overview of interest rates for building savings contracts in 2025:
| Interest Model | Rate | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible Standard | 3.25% p.a. | 1st year fixed, then variable |
| Flexible with Bonus | 3.5-4.0% p.a. | 1st year fixed + bonus |
| Fixed Rate | 1.5-2.5% p.a. | 6 years fixed |
| Youth Saver | up to 4.0% p.a. | Under 25 years |
Tip: With currently relatively high key interest rates, variable rates can be more attractive in the first years than fixed-rate models. Compare offers carefully!
Sample Calculation: What Does Building Savings Really Yield?
Let's say you save €100 monthly (€1,200 annually) for 6 years:
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Deposited Capital (6 years) | €7,200.00 |
| State Premium (1.5%) | + €108.00 |
| Interest (approx. 2.5% average) | + approx. €330.00 |
| Payout after 6 years | approx. €7,638.00 |
Return: Approximately 6% total return on deposited capital - tax-free!
Who is Building Savings Suitable For?
Ideal for:
- Parents & Grandparents - Perfect gift for children and grandchildren
- Young People - Special youth rates with bonus interest
- Safety-Oriented Savers - No risk of loss
- Future Homeowners - Foundation for affordable building loan
Less suitable for:
- Investors who need quick access to their money
- People seeking high returns (ETFs, stocks offer more potential)
- Those who cannot commit to the 6-year minimum term
Important Tips for 2025
Tip 1: Deposit as early in the year as possible - you'll earn more interest on your capital.
Tip 2: A lump-sum payment at the beginning of the year yields the highest return compared to monthly payments.
Tip 3: For families: Every family member (including children!) can have their own premium-subsidized contract.
Beware of Early Termination!
If you terminate your building savings contract before the 6-year period ends, you lose:
- The entire state premium
- Part of the interest
- Possibly bonus payments
Plan realistically and only sign a contract if you can commit to the 6 years.
Compare Building Savings Now
Conditions vary between building societies - comparing is worth it! With our partner durchblicker.at, you can compare all offers for free and without obligation.
Compare Building Savings Now
Conclusion: Is Building Savings Worth It in 2025?
Yes, building savings is still worthwhile - especially for safety-oriented savers and as a gift for children. The state premium of 1.5% is historically low, but combined with currently attractive interest rates of up to 4% in the first year, you get a solid return with zero risk.
Compare offers from the four building societies and choose the rate that best suits your needs. The comparison is free and non-binding - so what are you waiting for?
As of December 2025. All information without guarantee. Conditions may change.
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Information as of: November 2024. All information without warranty. Changes and errors excepted.