Pros and Cons of Living in Luxembourg as a Foreigner

Ever wondered what it’s like to live in a country with free public transport, top-tier salaries, and nearly stress-free healthcare?

Welcome to Luxembourg—a tiny yet ridiculously rich gem squeezed between France, Germany, and Belgium. It’s underrated, super international, and a wild mix of luxury and simplicity.

I’m Polish, and I moved there in Feb 2020—just before COVID shut everything down. Spent five years in Luxembourg City, working in an investment bank with just English. But eventually, I ditched the 9-to-5, booked a one-way ticket to Vietnam, and never looked back!

Now, I’m here to spill the tea on the real pros and cons of living in Luxembourg as a foreigner.

Let’s go! 🚀

Can You Live in Luxembourg with Just English?

Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. One of the biggest concerns for expats is whether they can survive in Luxembourg with just English.

From my experience, yes, you can! 🙂

Many of my colleagues and I only spoke English and Polish, and I managed to live comfortably. I did pick up some basic French for day-to-day tasks like ordering in restaurants or grocery shopping.

However, knowing French or German is a huge advantage and can make it easier to find a job. Many companies in Luxembourg require French, so if you don’t speak it, you may face challenges in the job market.

Is Luxembourg a Good Place for Foreigners?

Absolutely! Luxembourg is a melting pot of cultures. Over 47% of the population is made up of expats, and you’ll meet people from all around the world.

Here’s why Luxembourg is a great destination for foreigners:

• Diverse expat community – You’ll find Facebook groups and meetups for every nationality and interest.
• High standard of living – Luxembourg ranks as one of the wealthiest countries in the world.
• Safe and welcoming – It’s one of the safest countries in Europe, with a high quality of life.

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Luxembourg?

The cost of living in Luxembourg is high. Here’s a rough estimate of what you’ll need:

• Single person: €3,000–€4,000 per month (after tax)
• Family: €5,000–€7,000 per month

While salaries are high, so are expenses. Many locals shop across the border in Belgium, France, or Germany to save money.

Pros of Living in Luxembourg

Despite its small size, Luxembourg offers many advantages. Here are the biggest perks:

1. Free Public Transportation

Luxembourg is the first country in the world to offer completely free public transport! Whether you take the bus, tram, or train, you won’t need to pay a cent.

2. High Salaries

Luxembourg has one of the highest average salaries in the EU. If you land a job in finance, IT, or EU institutions, you’ll earn significantly more than in other European countries.

3. Central Location in Europe

Luxembourg is nicknamed the “Heart of Europe” because of its prime location:

• 20 min to Belgium (IKEA!)
• 30 min to Trier, Germany
• 3 hours to Paris
• 4 hours to Amsterdam

4. Safety

It’s one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a peaceful atmosphere.

5. Great Healthcare

Luxembourg offers excellent healthcare, with both public and private options available. 80–90% of medical costs are reimbursed, so you will only have to pay 10% to 20% of the total for most visits. Plus, if you have additional life insurance, such as Foyer, you can still get your money back for the remaining amount, which means your doctor’s visit will be reimbursed in full. 

6. Multicultural Environment

With people from all over the world, Luxembourg is a fantastic place for cultural exchange and networking.

Cons of Living in Luxembourg

While Luxembourg has many perks, there are also some downsides:

1. Bad Rainy Weather

The biggest complaint among residents is the weather—grey skies, frequent rain, and mild temperatures dominate most of the year. Summers rarely go above 25°C (77°F), and winters can be damp and chilly.

2. High Cost of Living

• Rent is expensive: A small studio apartment costs at least €1,400 per month.
• Buying a home is nearly impossible for many, with prices reaching €1 million+.
• Groceries and dining out are pricey compared to neighboring countries.

3. Language Challenges

While English is common in the workplace, daily life can be tricky if you don’t speak French or German. Many administrative tasks, medical appointments, and contracts are in these languages.

4. Small Size & Limited Entertainment

If you love nightlife, big-city vibes, and endless entertainment, Luxembourg may feel boring. The country is quiet, with few bars and nightclubs, and most shops close early.

5. Limited Job Opportunities

While salaries are high, the job market is competitive. Many roles require fluency in French or German, making it tough for English-only speakers.

6. Visa Challenges for Non-EU Citizens

If you’re from outside the EU, getting a work visa is difficult. Employers must prove they couldn’t find a suitable candidate within the EU before hiring you.

7. Limited Opening Hours

Shops close early (by 7 p.m.) and remain shut on Sundays. If you’re used to 24/7 convenience, this can be frustrating.

Is Luxembourg Worth It?

Luxembourg is a unique mix of financial security, multiculturalism, and high living standards. But it’s not for everyone.

Who is Luxembourg perfect for? ✅ High earners in finance, IT, or EU institutions ✅ Expats looking for safety and stability ✅ Families who want a secure future for their children ✅ People who enjoy a quiet, peaceful lifestyle

Who might struggle in Luxembourg? ❌ Those who need constant sunshine and warm weather ❌ People looking for a buzzing nightlife and entertainment scene ❌ Non-EU citizens who need a work visa ❌ Those who don’t speak French or German and want job flexibility

Final Thoughts on Pros and Cons of Living in Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a country of contrasts. It offers fantastic salaries, a great location, and a high quality of life—but at a high cost. If you’re considering moving here, do your research and weigh the pros and cons carefully.

For me, Luxembourg was an incredible experience that allowed me to save money, meet amazing people, and build my future. But after five years, I was ready for a change.

Would you consider moving to Luxembourg? Let me know in the comments!

Further Reading: Cost of Living in Luxembourg (2025) – A Real Expat’s Budget Breakdown