| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apartment Rental (1 bedroom in City Center) | Approximately CHF 1,200 – 1,500 per month |
| Apartment Rental (1 bedroom Outside of City Center) | Approximately CHF 1,000 – 1,300 per month |
| Apartment Purchase Price (City Center) | Approximately CHF 8,000 – 10,000 per square meter |
| Apartment Purchase Price (Outside of City Center) | Approximately CHF 6,000 – 8,000 per square meter |
| Public Transportation (Monthly Pass) | Approximately CHF 70 – 100 |
| Groceries (Monthly for 1 person) | Approximately CHF 300 – 400 |
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | Approximately CHF 20 – 30 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | Approximately CHF 80 – 120 |
| Utilities (Monthly for 1 person) | Approximately CHF 150 – 200 |
| Private School Tuition (Preschool) | Approximately CHF 1,500 – 2,000 per month |
| Private School Tuition (Elementary School) | Approximately CHF 2,000 – 2,500 per month |
| Private School Tuition (Middle School) | Approximately CHF 2,500 – 3,000 per month |
| Private School Tuition (High School) | Approximately CHF 3,000 – 3,500 per month |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Bern
“Living in Bern is considered to be quite expensive. The cost of housing is high, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being significantly more than in other cities. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are also costly. Groceries in Bern are also expensive, with basic items such as bread, milk, and eggs costing more than in many other countries. Eating out at restaurants can also be quite pricey, especially in the city center. Transportation costs in Bern can add up, especially if you own a car, as gasoline prices are high. However, public transportation is efficient and widely used, but it is also more expensive compared to other cities. Healthcare in Switzerland is of high quality, but it is also costly. Everyone is required to have health insurance, and premiums are high. In terms of leisure activities, prices for things like cinema tickets, gym memberships, and other entertainment options are also higher than in many other countries. Overall, while salaries in Bern are also generally high, the cost of living is considered to be one of the highest in the world,” said one expat living in Bern.
Can I live in Bern on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Bern for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $1,500 a month would be quite challenging, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. The cost of living in Switzerland is one of the highest in the world. Rent alone can eat up a significant portion of that budget. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost you around $1,200 per month. If you’re willing to live a bit further out, in neighborhoods like Bethlehem or Bümpliz, you might find something a bit cheaper, maybe around $900-$1,000 per month. But even then, that doesn’t leave much for utilities, groceries, transportation, and other expenses. Groceries can be quite expensive here, especially if you’re buying imported goods. A monthly public transportation pass in Bern costs around $70. If you’re used to dining out or enjoying nightlife, you might have to cut back on that as well. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around $20, and a pint of beer can set you back $7. As for neighborhoods to avoid due to high cost, the Old Town is beautiful but very expensive, as are Kirchenfeld and Breitenrain. In general, the closer you are to the city center, the more expensive it will be. So, while it’s not impossible to live on $1,500 a month in Bern, it would require some significant lifestyle adjustments and careful budgeting,” commented an expat living in Bern.
Can I live in Bern on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Bern for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $3,000 a month is possible, but it will require some careful budgeting and sacrifices. Bern is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so you’ll need to be mindful of your spending. Rent will be your biggest expense. If you want to live in the city center, you’re looking at around $1,500 to $2,000 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. However, if you’re willing to live a bit further out, you can find cheaper options. Neighborhoods like Bethlehem, Bümpliz, and Betlehemacker are more affordable and still have good access to public transportation. On the other hand, neighborhoods like Kirchenfeld or Matte are quite expensive, so you might want to avoid those. Groceries are also quite pricey here. You can expect to spend around $500 a month if you cook at home most of the time. Eating out is expensive, so that’s one of the sacrifices you’ll have to make. Public transportation is excellent and a monthly pass costs around $70, so you won’t need a car. Health insurance is mandatory and that will cost you around $300 a month. So, if you add it all up, you’re looking at around $2,500 to $2,800 a month for basic expenses, leaving you with a few hundred dollars for entertainment, travel, and other expenses. It’s definitely doable, but you’ll have to live a bit more frugally than you might be used to. You won’t be able to eat out often, you’ll have to limit your travel, and you won’t be able to splurge on luxury items. But if you’re okay with that, you can definitely make it work,” said one expat living in Bern.
Can I live in Bern on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in Bern for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is possible, but it will require some careful budgeting. Bern is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so you’ll need to be mindful of your spending. Rent is likely to be your biggest expense. If you want to live in the city center, in neighborhoods like Matte or Kirchenfeld, you can expect to pay upwards of $2,000 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. However, if you’re willing to live a bit further out, in neighborhoods like Bethlehem or Bümpliz, you can find cheaper options, around $1,200 to $1,500 a month. Groceries are also quite expensive here. I usually spend around $500 a month on groceries, but I try to save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl, and by cooking at home as much as possible. Eating out can be quite pricey, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around $30 to $40 per person. Public transportation is excellent in Bern, so you won’t need a car. A monthly pass for the bus and tram system costs around $70. Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland and can cost around $300 a month, depending on your plan. As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Bern. The city is full of beautiful parks and museums, and the Bernese Alps are just a short train ride away. However, if you’re a big fan of nightlife or high-end shopping, you might find Bern a bit lacking. In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the luxuries you’re used to. You’ll likely need to live in a smaller apartment, cook at home more often, and limit your discretionary spending. But in return, you’ll get to live in a beautiful, safe, and clean city with a high quality of life. It’s all about finding the right balance for you,” commented an expat living in Bern.
