Retire in Olten, Switzerland
Last updated on Aug 27, 2024
Summary: Olten, Switzerland is a charming city located in the canton of Solothurn, and is known for its picturesque views of the Swiss Alps. Retirees are attracted to Olten for its peaceful atmosphere, excellent public transportation, and proximity to larger cities like Zurich and Basel. The weather in Olten is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer and the mid-20s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit in the winter. There are several retirement communities in Olten, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Olten is around $400,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home is around $500,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Olten?
"Retiring in Olten can be a great experience for seniors. Olten is a peaceful town situated in central Switzerland, close to the Swiss Alps. The town is quite picturesque and has plenty of cultural attractions, such as lush green parks, a beautiful old town, and art galleries. Olten boasts excellent healthcare options for those over 65 and other services for retirees to take advantage of. Highly rated retirement homes, recreational centers, and fitness facilities provide seniors with plenty of activities and chances to stay active. Transportation is well-organized and has convenient public transport options. The area is well-connected to nearby cities, such as Zurich and Basel. Olten’s climate is mild and typically experiences high temperatures during the summer and low temperatures during the winter. Overall, Olten is a great choice for anyone looking to retire in a peaceful and vibrant place," remarked one retiree in Olten.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Overseas retirees often recommend conducting extensive research before making a decision to retire abroad. This includes researching tax laws and benefits, cost of living, health care, employment opportunities, and the culture and customs of the new country. Additionally, it helps to talk to locals about their experiences and to visit the country for an extended period of time to get a better sense of the place. Retirees also suggest that one should consider the best means to transport their belongings from their home country to their new overseas location, as well as the the policies for renewing visas and the long-term financial implications of retiring abroad. It's important to understand what resources are available for legal or financial assistance should any issues arise. Finally, retirees often remind those who retire abroad to factor in the cost of travel to visit loved ones, as well as potential language-barrier complications," explained a retiree in Olten.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Olten?
"The cost of living in Olten can be expensive and finding adequate housing can be difficult as the area is known to lack a good selection of rental offerings. The town is not known for its large variety of amenities or bustling social atmosphere, so retirees may need to travel in order to take advantage of recreational activities, cultural events, and restaurants. Additionally, there are limited transportation options for those not comfortable driving, as the public bus system is not as accessible or efficient as it is in larger cities. The language barrier can also be a challenge for retirees who are not fluent in German," said one retiree in Olten.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Olten?
"The most rewarding aspects of retiring in Olten include the cost of living, strong transportation links, diverse range of activities, a beautiful and welcoming town centre, a bustling nightlife and cultural scene, and access to various health and wellness resources. Retirees can enjoy the slow pace of life in Olten and take advantage of opportunities to make new friends and form meaningful connections with their neighbours. Olten's proximity to Zurich and Bern makes it an ideal base for those interested in travelling around Switzerland or enjoying day trips to a variety of attractions," said a person in Olten.
What are healthcare services like in Olten?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Olten. They wrote:
"In Olten, healthcare services are provided by a team of healthcare professionals including doctors, nurses, dentists and pharmacists. Olten has an extensive network of hospitals, clinics and ambulatory care centers which offer a wide array of services. These facilities offer general and specialist medical care, as well as emergency services. In addition, there are a number of home healthcare providers who can provide care from the patient's home. Olten also has a range of pharmacies and opticians, which provide medications and eyecare services. Other healthcare providers include physiotherapists, chiropractors, and even veterinarians. Furthermore, alternative and complementary therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy are also available in Olten," said one retiree in living in Olten, Switzerland.
How do I meet people in Olten?
When we asked people living in Olten about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Olten is a great place to meet new people. One way to meet people is to join a local organization or club. Go to local meet-ups, gatherings, or events. Talk to your neighbors or coworkers. Stop in at a local café or pub and strike up a conversation with someone. Attend church or religious gatherings. Join a sports team or sign up for a class. Volunteer in the local community or put out an ad online to find like-minded people," said one retiree in Olten.
What is life like in Olten?
When we asked people living in Olten what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Olten as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding experience. The city is small but vibrant, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. The cost of living is relatively high, but the quality of life is excellent. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city is well-connected to the rest of Switzerland and Europe. Olten is a great place to live for those looking for a peaceful and safe environment, with plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside," remarked one retiree in Olten.
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What do I need to know before retiring in Olten?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Olten, they said:
"-Olten is a small city in Switzerland, located in the canton of Solothurn. -It is known for its easy access to major metropolitan areas such as Zurich, Basel and Geneva. -The cost of living in Olten is relatively high compared to other Swiss cities, but is compensated by its excellent public services, infrastructure and quality of life. -The public transportation in Olten is excellent, with frequent train, bus and tram services connecting Olten to other cities in the region. -There is a wide variety of outdoor activities available in and around Olten, including hiking, climbing, cycling and water sports. -The health care system in Olten is world-class, and there are many private clinics and hospitals in the area. -The climate in Olten is mild and temperate, with an average temperature of around 10 degrees Celsius in the winter and 25 degrees in the summer. -It is important to ensure that you have adequate health insurance cover before retiring in Olten," said a retiree who moved to Olten, Switzerland.
What type of recreational activities are there in Olten?
"Olten offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents and visitors. The Olten Sports Center is a popular destination, offering a wide range of activities such as swimming, fitness, and squash. The Olten Adventure Park is a great place for families to enjoy outdoor activities such as mini-golf, trampolining, and a climbing wall. The Olten Zoo is a great place to observe a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and monkeys. The Olten Golf Club is a great place to practice your golfing skills, with a 9-hole course and a driving range. The Olten Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun, with a beach volleyball court and a playground. Finally, the Olten Skate Park is a great place for skateboarders and BMX riders to practice their tricks," remarked one retiree in Olten.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Olten?
"In Olten, expats can find a variety of grocery stores and other shopping options. Coop is a popular grocery store chain in the area, with a location at Bahnhofstrasse 8. Here, expats can find a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and other grocery items. For other shopping needs, the Olten Shopping Center is a great option. This shopping center offers a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. Additionally, the Olten Market is a great place to find fresh produce, meats, and other local products," explained one retiree living in Olten.
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 Olten
- Cost of Living in Olten
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Best Places to Live in Switzerland
- Real Estate in Switzerland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Switzerland
- How to Navigate the Health System in Switzerland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Switzerland