The Vienna Economic Chamber reported Tuesday that Vienna faces a significant housing shortfall for 2026. Only 9,600 of the 12,600 planned units are expected to be finished, while Michael Pisecky estimates completions could drop as low as 8,000 apartments.
The construction sector has shrunk for four straight years through 2025, with output falling 5.9 percent in 2024. WIFO recently revised its 2024 economic outlook to a 0.2 percent contraction, though investment is forecast to grow 1.0 percent by 2027.
Returning to 2021/22 completion levels requires 7.8 billion euros in annual investment, according to an iföw study. Such funding could generate 4.6 billion euros in gross value added, supporting an industry where many work for small firms under ten people.