Cost of Living in Bern, Switzerland
Last updated on Jun 13, 2023
Summary: What is the cost of living in Bern, Switzerland? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Bern talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.
Is the cost of living in Bern high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bern, they wrote:
"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," wrote a person living in Bern.
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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.