Moving to Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a small landlocked country in north-western Europe between France, Belgium and Germany. It’s known for its cosmopolitan cities and excellent quality of life. Due to its large foreign population, the country is a melting pot of cultures and expats should feel right at home whether living in the bustling urban centres or gorgeous rural countryside.   

Living in Luxembourg as an expat

While the entirety of Luxembourg is picturesque and provides its residents with a rich life, the majority of expats live in and around the capital. With a large foreign population, the city has a rather international feel to it and, as the economic centre of the country, it is also where the vast majority of jobs are based.

The main industries in Luxembourg are banking, steel, IT, tourism and agriculture. The financial and IT fields especially are in high demand, and expats with skills in these fields are at an advantage when it comes to looking for work in Luxembourg.

Luxembourg is home to one of the best state-sponsored healthcare systems in Europe. Healthcare of the highest quality is available for free or at subsidised rates to all legal residents, who pay compulsory health insurance each month. Private healthcare is also an option.

In 2020, Luxembourg became the first country in the world to make all public transport, including buses, trains and trams, free of charge. On top of it being free, expats can expect all networks to be quick, reliable and clean. Only those crossing the border or travelling in first class will need to purchase a ticket to use any form of transport in the country.

Cost of living in Luxembourg

Luxembourg's cost of living is relatively high. That said, the capital city is certainly the priciest part of the country, and those living outside of it will therefore at least be afforded cheaper rentals. Housing, food and, surprisingly, clothing, are expenses that will take a decent chunk out of an expat’s monthly budget. On an expat salary, however, new arrivals in Luxembourg will be able to live a comfortable life in the country.

Expat families and children

Although Luxembourg boasts one of the best education systems in the world, the language barrier may be an issue for many expats. Luckily the country is also home to several international schools that can help ease expat children into life in their new home.

With plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities available in Luxembourg, families who enjoy spending time in nature will have an array of options at their fingertips. They will be able to take advantage of every sunny day in the country's many parks, zoos, playgrounds, hiking trails and more. Inevitably, expats can also expect many rainy days, which can be spent in Luxembourg’s countless museums.

Climate in Luxembourg

Luxembourg has a moderately temperate climate characterised by cold winters and mild summers. Expats can expect temperatures of between 57ºF (14ºC) and 66ºF (19ºC) in the summertime, while winter temperatures generally hover above 32ºF (0ºC). Rain is common and plentiful throughout the year in Luxembourg, although the warmer months do generally get around seven hours of sunshine per day.

Expats moving to Luxembourg can expect to live a good life in the country. Along with its excellent healthcare and schooling systems and free public transport, crime rates are low, and expats will not have to worry when it comes to their safety and security. With so much on offer in this tiny yet absolutely beautiful country, expats are sure to live a high-quality life in Luxembourg.

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Fast facts

Population: About 640 thousand

Capital city: Luxembourg City

Neighbouring countries: Luxembourg is bordered by Belgium to the west and north, Germany to the east and France to the south.

Geography: Luxembourg is characterised by rolling uplands and wide, steep valleys. With the foothills of the Ardennes situated in the north of the country, this region is rather mountainous. The rest of the country slopes down towards the southeast where the Moselle flood plain is situated.

Political system: Parliamentary representative democratic monarchy

Major religion: Roman Catholic

Main language: Luxembourgish, French and German

Money: Euro (EUR). ATMs are widespread in Luxembourg and expats should be able to use their credit cards throughout the country.

Tipping: A service charge is generally included in the bill at restaurants in Luxembourg. An additional tip isn’t required but most people will give a Euro or two for good service.   

Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs with two round pins are generally used.

Internet domain: .lu

International dialling code: +352

Emergency numbers: 112

Transport and Driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. The public transport system in Luxembourg is extensive and reliable, with trains, trams and buses travelling throughout the country, as well as networks connecting the main centres to its neighbouring countries.