Geneva, Switzerland
Last updated on May 06, 2023
Summary: People describe Geneva, Switzerland as a beautiful, cosmopolitan city with a stunning lake and mountain backdrop. Expats love the city's international atmosphere, its excellent public transportation system, and its proximity to the Alps. The weather in Geneva is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The average cost of living for an expat is quite high, with estimates ranging from $2,500 to $4,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Geneva is typically around $1,500 to $2,500 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 per month. The approximate population of Geneva is around 200,000 people.
What do I need to know about living in Geneva?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Geneva, they said:
"Before retiring in Geneva, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. They should also be aware of the language barrier, as French is the main language spoken in Geneva. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Geneva, as it is different from many other countries. It is also important to research the tax system in Geneva, as taxes can be high. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for living in Geneva, as they may need to obtain a residence permit," said one expat who made the move to Geneva.
"Life is very insular in Geneva, a social life does not immediately await you, you absolutely have to make the effort to join things to fit in and meet people as socialising with work colleagues is not overly common as in England," explained one expat living in Geneva, Switzerland.
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What do I need to know before moving to Geneva?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Geneva
- Discover the Best of Geneva
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Best Places to Live in Switzerland
- Real Estate in Switzerland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Switzerland
- Moving with a Pet to Switzerland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Switzerland