Last Updated on November 27, 2022 by
Switzerland is known for its high cost of living. The lovely Alpine lifestyle, political and economic stability, excellent healthcare, and high standard of living in Switzerland all come at a cost. Despite its high cost of living, Switzerland is allegedly still a popular destination for foreigners, with British expats ranking it the 14th most popular country. According to the Swiss statistics office, the foreign population of Switzerland is a little over 2.2 million people, accounting for around a quarter of the total population of almost 8.7 million people. (25.3%).
Cost Of Living In Zurich
Housing
Individuals should anticipate spending 25-40% of their net wage on rent or mortgage payments, depending on where they reside and the type of home. For example, in Zurich, rent is roughly 3% cheaper than in Geneva. The table below shows the average rental costs in Switzerland’s four largest cities.
Most of your costs will be transportation, meals, and lodging, none of which are inexpensive. The good news is that high wage rates and general quality of life in the city may offset these potentially stressful charges. Negotiating good pay, planning your relocation, and thoroughly enjoying this wonderful city will be impossible without knowing your living expenses.
What is the rent in Zurich?
The average rent for homes up for sale is CHF 2,000 per month. 80 percent of properties have a monthly rent around CHF 369 & CHF 5,445 as their range. In Zürich, the average yearly rent per square metre is CHF 321/m2/year.
Accommodation
Couchsurfing is your best choice if you’re visiting Zurich alone. It won’t be challenging to locate someone to stay with for free if you’ve been a community member and have good evaluations and testimonies. Airbnb is an excellent option if you’re not comfortable with this living environment. Private rooms may be had for as little as $20 per night, but you’ll have to live in areas outside of the city center or near universities. If you’re traveling with someone else, a hotel in a more convenient location for two people will cost roughly $60 to $80 each night.
Hostel dorms are also an option, but they will cost you $50 and $80 per night. Living in the heart of Zurich is a whole different story. Apartment rentals are highly pricey, and you’ll have difficulty finding one for less than $1,000 a month. These homes are often located outside of the city and are unfurnished studios. Another stumbling block would be landlords’ and agencies’ erratic behavior with renters. With the influx of students and young professionals to Zurich, landlords increasingly scrutinize each candidate before selecting the one with the most outstanding credentials.
Read More: A Comprehensive Overview Of Cost Of Living In Manchester
Little place at a premium price
There are lines at the end of the block on occasion. And that was all for a bit of place at a premium price. Isn’t it crazy? An apartment in a moderately handy location will cost between $2,000 and $3,000 per month. You get to enjoy larger areas at reduced rental charges, and you won’t have to bother about outfitting the space if there is already a renter. There is also the advantage of reduced paperwork and the opportunity to meet new individuals who can assist you in learning about Zurich.
You may browse current advertisements or create your ad to receive notifications about rooms that fit your criteria. Students and young professionals are more likely to use these locations, reducing rental rates in desirable neighborhoods. Tutti.ch is an excellent classified ad site. However, it is not in English. If your WG searching is successful, you may expect to pay $700 to $1,000 monthly rent. Your room will most likely remain unfurnished, but you’ll have access to a comfortable shared space, a handy location, and other amenities (hopefully).
Zurich nightlife & eating out
With its meandering pedestrianized alleyways, Niederdorf, often known as a ‘small village,’ is a fantastic spot to discover one. You can’t visit Switzerland without eating some great chocolate, and Lindt, Frey, and Camille Bloch are three brands to look out for. A must-try local specialty is Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, sliced veal in a cream sauce served with Rösti (Swiss potato pancake). Muesli was created as a health snack in Switzerland, and delicious bratwurst with crusty bread is a favorite street dish.
Insurance
Switzerland has no free public health services, so private healthcare is required by law. Expats must purchase insurance within three months of arrival unless you’re just a tourist passing by. Like everything else in Zurich, health insurance is not inexpensive, but you know you’re getting the most definitive treatment. Premiums can range from $250 to more than $500 per month without dental care.
Hospitalization and doctor consultations are covered by your primary or Grund insurance. However, most companies will provide accident insurance. If not, these are generally inexpensive premium add-ons that cost approximately $10 per month. If you have a work visa, immigration will call you a month after you arrive to verify that you have health insurance. Yes, it is required!
Zurich getting around
Swiss public transportation is clean, safe, and quick, making it a great way to move around the city. Tickets are purchased from vending machines before boarding the network’s trams, buses, cable cars, and boats. The Old Town, Lakeside promenade, railway station, and many nearby sites are worth exploring on foot. You may not require public transportation once you’ve arrived in Zurich.
