Zurich, Switzerland
Last updated on May 06, 2023
Summary: People describe Zurich, Switzerland as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a stunning natural landscape. Expats love the city's high quality of life, excellent public transportation, and the fact that it is a safe and secure place to live. The weather in Zurich is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (0-20 Celsius). The average cost of living for an expat is quite high, with estimates ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Zurich is typically around $2,000 USD per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost up to $3,500 USD per month. The approximate population of Zurich is 400,000 people.
What do I need to know about living in Zurich?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Zurich, they said:
"Before retiring in Zurich, it is important to research the cost of living and compare it to your expected income. As Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, it is important to take into account things like housing, transportation, food and medical costs. It is also important to have an understanding of the tax system in Switzerland and ensure that you are prepared to comply with it while living in the country. When retiring in Zurich, it is also important to learn about Switzerland's retirement laws and pension systems before settling down. It can be beneficial to also research the healthcare system and find out what type of coverage is available and whether you qualify for public or private health insurance. Finally, it is important to consider the quality of life Zurich has to offer and the amenities that you enjoy. Consider whether the city can provide activities and services to suit your lifestyle and needs. Learning some of the language, customs, culture and laws of the city is also recommended," explained one expat living in Zurich, Switzerland.
"LEARN GERMAN,and make sure that you can get a tax specialist who speaks your langauge if you mother tongue is not German, French or Italian," said one expat in Zurich.
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What do I need to know before moving to Zurich?
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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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Zurich?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Zurich?
- Will I be able to find a job in Zurich?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Zurich appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Zurich?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Zurich accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Zurich like?
- How are healthcare services in Zurich?
- What are medical services in Zurich like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Zurich?
- What are emergency services like in Zurich?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Zurich?
- How are local medical facilities in Zurich?
- As a foreigner living in Zurich, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?