site.btaEurovision to Bring EUR 57 Mln Economic Boost to Vienna in 2026, Study Shows

Vienna, which will host the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest next year, expects to generate an economic boost of EUR 57 million, while the event’s costs are estimated at EUR 36 million, according to a recent study by the economic research institute ECO Austria.

The contest is projected to attract 88,000 additional visitors to Vienna, contributing around EUR 21 million to the city’s economy. Total costs, including EUR 5 million from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), amount to EUR 36 million. The total estimated economic impact of EUR 57 million is expected to stimulate local businesses and boost demand across sectors such as hospitality and tourism.

State Secretary for Tourism Elisabeth Zehetner noted that Eurovision would bring not only short-term economic benefits, but provide advertising value for the entire country, adding that the global media exposure for Austria is valued at EUR 730 million.

The 2026 Eurovision is also expected to create 550 full-time jobs and generate around EUR 22 million in additional tax revenue, helping offset Vienna’s projected expenses. According to study author Wolfgang Schwarzbauer the spending will provide a short-term boost with long-term effects.

At a joint press conference with Vienna’s mayor, ORF Director General Roland Weissmann emphasized the broadcaster’s aim to keep costs below those of the Basel contest, which totaled about EUR 64 million, of which the city covered EUR 37.3 million. 

Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig expressed support for the cost-conscious approach, noting that other federal provinces will not be overlooked. The city’s maximum budget allocation of EUR 22.6 million for Eurovision is higher than the EUR 17 million spent in 2015, the last time Vienna hosted the event. Back then, the economic benefit was estimated at EUR 28 million, with an additional EUR 100 million in advertising value. Ludwig expects even greater returns in 2026, justifying the investment.

The mayor also promised numerous free side events, similar to the 80 held in 2015. The main attraction will again be the Eurovision Village on the square in front of City Hall, featuring a giant screen for live viewing for those without tickets.