Heating Costs Comparison Austria 2025: Pellets, Gas, Oil and Heat Pumps
Compare current heating costs in Austria for winter 2025. Pellets, gas, heating oil or heat pump – which heating system is cheapest? Including subsidies.
Heating Costs Comparison Austria 2025: Which Heating System is Cheapest?
Winter 2025 poses a crucial question for many Austrian households: How can I reduce my heating costs? With the end of various energy relief measures and rising prices for some fuels, it's worth taking a close look at the different heating options. In this guide, we compare the current heating costs for pellets, gas, heating oil, and heat pumps.
⚠️ Legal Notice: All price and cost information in this article is for general orientation only and is based on publicly available average values. Actual costs may vary significantly depending on region, provider, building condition, and individual consumption. Prices are subject to change. As of: November 2025. No advice or recommendation.
Heating Costs Overview: Winter 2025
Heating costs vary significantly depending on the energy source used. Here's an overview of average annual heating costs for a typical single-family home in Austria.
ℹ️ Calculation Basis: The following values are averages for a single-family home with approx. 130 m² living space and medium insulation standard. Your individual costs may differ significantly.
| Heating Type | Average Annual Costs | Trend 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Heat Pump | approx. €715 | Cheapest Option |
| 🥈 Pellet Heating | approx. €740 | Very Affordable |
| Oil Heating | approx. €1,055 | Medium |
| Gas Heating | approx. €1,180 | More Expensive |
| District Heating | approx. €1,245 | Most Expensive |
Fuel Prices in Detail
Pellets: The Cheapest Heating Alternative
Wood pellets are currently the cheapest fuel in Austria. In November 2025, prices are around 35-36 cents per kilogram for loose pellets when ordering 6 tonnes.
| Pellet Metric | Current Value (approx.) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Price per kg | 35-36 cents | For 6 tonne orders |
| Price per kWh | approx. 7.4 cents | Incl. transport |
| Annual Requirement (Average) | approx. 4-6 tonnes | Depending on building |
| Annual Costs | approx. €1,850-2,150 | Fuel incl. transport |
| Price Development 2025 | +11% vs. last year | Still cheapest option |
Heating Oil: Moderate Price Development
Heating oil has increased by about 4% compared to last year and is significantly more expensive than pellets.
| Heating Oil Metric | Current Value (approx.) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Price per litre | approx. €1.04-1.10 | Extra light heating oil |
| Annual Requirement (Average) | approx. 2,500-3,000 litres | Depending on building |
| Annual Costs | approx. €3,100-3,300 | Incl. transport |
| Comparison to Pellets | approx. 49% more expensive | At same heating value |
| Price Development 2025 | +4% vs. last year | Moderate increase |
Natural Gas: Significantly More Expensive Than Alternatives
Natural gas is currently one of the more expensive heating options and is priced well above pellets.
| Natural Gas Metric | Current Value (approx.) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Price per kWh | approx. 8-12 cents | Depending on tariff |
| Comparison to Pellets | approx. 124% more expensive | At same heating value |
| Grid Fees 2026 | +18% expected | Further increase |
| CO2 Tax | Continues to rise | Additional costs |
Savings Potential When Switching Heating Systems
Switching from fossil fuels to pellets or heat pumps can bring significant savings.
| Switch From | Switch To | Possible Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Oil (3,000 L) | Pellets | approx. €1,430 possible |
| Natural Gas | Pellets | approx. €2,065 possible |
| Heating Oil | Heat Pump | Significant (varies) |
| Natural Gas | Heat Pump | Significant (varies) |
📊 Note: Actual savings depend on many factors: building insulation, heating behaviour, chosen system, and regional prices. Individual consultation with a professional installer is recommended.
Subsidies for Heating System Replacement 2025
The Austrian government and federal states offer attractive subsidies for switching to climate-friendly heating systems.
Federal Subsidies
| Subsidy | Amount (maximum) | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Heating Replacement | Up to €8,500 | Replacing fossil heating |
| Special Subsidy 2025 | 30% of costs, max. €3,500 | Additionally possible |
| With State Subsidy | Up to €18,000 | Combination possible |
State Subsidies (Additional)
Each federal state offers its own subsidy programmes. Combination with federal subsidies is possible in many cases.
| Federal State | Additional Subsidy | Info Source |
|---|---|---|
| Vienna | State subsidy available | wien.gv.at |
| Lower Austria | State subsidy available | noe.gv.at |
| Upper Austria | State subsidy available | land-oberoesterreich.gv.at |
| Styria | State subsidy available | wohnbau.steiermark.at |
| Carinthia | State subsidy available | ktn.gv.at |
| Salzburg | State subsidy available | salzburg.gv.at |
| Tyrol | State subsidy available | tirol.gv.at |
| Vorarlberg | State subsidy available | vorarlberg.at |
| Burgenland | State subsidy available | burgenland.at |
💡 Tip: Before replacing your heating system, check with the relevant state authority about current subsidy options. Subsidy guidelines may change.
Reduce Heating Costs Immediately: Practical Tips
Even without replacing your heating system, you can reduce your heating costs. Experts estimate that about 90% of households don't fully utilise their savings potential.
Short-term Measures (Immediately Implementable)
| Measure | Savings Potential | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Lower room temperature | approx. 6% per degree | Immediately |
| Proper ventilation (burst ventilation) | Up to 10% | Immediately |
| Bleed radiators | Improved efficiency | Immediately |
| Don't block radiators | Better heat distribution | Immediately |
| Lower hot water temperature | Noticeable | Immediately |
| Lower heating at night | Several percent | Immediately |
Medium-term Measures
- Optimise heating curve: Have a professional adjust settings
- Replace thermostat valves: Programmable thermostats enable automatic reduction
- Seal windows and doors: Avoid draughts
- Use roller shutters: Closed shutters at night reduce heat loss
Compare Fuel Prices
Comparing fuel prices can be worthwhile:
- Pellets: Prices vary by supplier and order quantity
- Heating oil: Collective orders with neighbours can be cheaper
- Gas: Check tariff comparisons and provider switching
Which Heating System Suits Me?
Choosing the right heating system depends on various factors:
| Heating Type | Suitable For | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Pump | Well-insulated buildings, new builds | High purchase costs, low running costs |
| Pellet Heating | Single-family homes with storage space | Storage space for pellets required |
| District Heating | Urban areas with connection | No own heating system needed |
| Gas Heating | Existing gas connections | Fossil fuel, CO2 tax rising |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is replacing the heating system financially worthwhile?
When switching from oil or gas to pellets or heat pumps, you can save several hundred to over a thousand euros annually. With current subsidies, the investment can pay off within a few years. Individual calculation by a professional is recommended.
When is the best time to replace the heating system?
The summer months are suitable for heating system replacement, as heating isn't needed then. However, subsidy applications should be submitted in good time.
Are pellets really environmentally friendly?
Pellets from sustainably managed forests are considered CO2-neutral, as only as much CO2 is released during combustion as the tree absorbed during growth. Look for certifications like ENplus.
How much does a new pellet heating system cost?
Costs for a pellet heating system typically range between €15,000 and €25,000 (without subsidies). With subsidies, net costs can be significantly lower.
Can I continue to operate my gas heating?
Existing gas heating systems can generally continue to be operated. However, new regulations apply when replacing them. From 2035, no new fossil heating systems are to be installed in Austria.
Checklist: Optimise Heating Costs
- ✅ Determine current heating costs and consumption
- ✅ Compare fuel prices
- ✅ Implement immediate saving tips (temperature, ventilation, bleeding)
- ✅ Have heating curve checked by professional
- ✅ Research subsidies (federal + state)
- ✅ For older heating systems: Consider replacement
- ✅ Get quotes from multiple installers
- ✅ Check building insulation
Conclusion
Heating costs in Austria vary significantly depending on energy source. Winter 2025 shows:
- Heat pumps and pellets are the cheapest heating options
- Gas and district heating have become significantly more expensive
- Subsidies of up to €18,000 make switching more attractive
- Immediate measures can save several hundred euros without investment
A heating system replacement should be well planned. Take advantage of available subsidies and get advice from professional installers.
As of: November 2025. All figures are averages and may vary regionally and according to individual consumption. This guide is for general information only and does not constitute advice. For current prices and subsidies, contact the relevant authorities. All information without warranty.
Disclaimer and Legal Information
No Financial or Legal Advice: The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. It does not replace individual consultation with a professional expert.
No Warranty for Accuracy and Timeliness: Despite careful research, we cannot guarantee the completeness, accuracy, and timeliness of the information. Prices, terms, and services may change at any time. Please verify all information directly with the respective provider.
No Recommendations: The mentioned products, services, or providers do not constitute a personal recommendation. The selection was made for informational purposes. Every decision is your own responsibility.
Liability Disclaimer: We assume no liability for damages or losses that could arise from the use of the information provided. This applies in particular to financial decisions based on this information.
External Links: For content of external websites we link to, their operators are exclusively responsible.
Information as of: November 2024. All information without warranty. Changes and errors excepted.