Moving to Luxembourg

Located in northwestern Europe between France, Belgium, and Germany, Luxembourg is a small landlocked country. 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, so expats moving to Luxembourg should feel right at home whether living in the bustling urban centres or the 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. As the economic centre of the country, Luxembourg City 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 you will be at advantage when it comes to looking for work in Luxembourg if you have skills in these fields.

Luxembourg is home to one of the best tax-funded 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, you can expect all networks to be quick, reliable, and clean. Only those crossing the border or travelling in first class must 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 can live a comfortable life in the country.

Families and children in Luxembourg

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 can take advantage of every sunny day in the country's many parks, zoos, playgrounds, hiking trails and more. Inevitably, you 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. You can expect temperatures of between 57ºF (14ºC) and 66ºF (19ºC) in the summer, while winter temperatures generally hover above 32ºF (0ºC). Rain is common and plentiful throughout the year in Luxembourg, although the warmer months typically get around seven hours of sunshine per day.

If you're moving to Luxembourg, you 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 you will not have to worry about your safety and security. With so much on offer in this tiny yet absolutely beautiful country, you are sure to live a high-quality life in Luxembourg.

Fast facts

Population: About 660,000

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. The foothills of the Ardennes are situated in the north of the country, making the region rather mountainous. The rest of the country slopes down towards the southeast, where the Moselle floodplain is situated.

Political system: Parliamentary representative democratic monarchy

Major religion: Roman Catholic

Main language: Luxembourgish, French, and German

Money: The currency is the 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 largely 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.