Areas and suburbs in Geneva

The best places to live in Geneva

Choosing which area or suburb of Geneva to live in is a major decision, and you’ll likely have your choices restricted by the lack of availability and high property prices. With a vacancy rate of just 0.5 percent as of 2024, Geneva’s property market is fiercely competitive. With its many parks, beautiful bodies of water and surrounding mountains, there are plenty of neighbourhoods in Geneva that can provide the perfect living environment.

That said, there are factors to consider before deciding to live in a particular area. More and more people share flats or take on short-term sublets while looking for long-term accommodation, especially as the market continues to show rising values and higher demand for residential properties.

Public transport in Geneva is good, so even if you don’t live in the city centre you won’t waste too much time commuting. The well-developed UNIRESO system connects trams, buses, boats and trains with unified tickets. It’s also cheaper and easier than trying to find parking in the city.

Many residents decide to live in France, just six miles (10km) away from Geneva’s centre. Towns such as Ferney-Voltaire, Gex, Divonne, Annemasse, Evian and St Julien-en-Genevois are nearby and are usually cheaper. As a cross-border worker, you’ll need to obtain a G-Permit from the cantonal authorities before starting employment. Basically, rental prices get less expensive the further you go from the centre of Geneva.

City living in Geneva

Central Geneva

The centre of Geneva is beautiful and historic, but it’s one of the city’s most expensive neighbourhoods. Living here gives you access to a huge range of restaurants, bars and cafés. Properties close to the lake in the Eaux Vives area are particularly popular among young professionals and executives with higher disposable incomes. You’ll enjoy natural beauty, cultural depth, and modern city life all in one spot, with parks, the lake, and quick weekend escapes to the French Alps right at your doorstep.

Acacias

This area houses numerous company headquarters and has a somewhat industrial feel. Once a remote zone, Acacias has transformed into a thriving industrial and commercial hub. Apartments are small, and buildings tend to be a little older. Transport links from Acacias are excellent, so you’ll find it easy to get around. Notable landmarks include the Vernets barracks, an ice skating rink that hosts the Genève-Servette hockey team, and the iconic Hans-Wilsdorf Bridge.

Pâquis

Pâquis is one of the city’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan neighbourhoods and has a lovely bohemian atmosphere. Newcomers to the city often gravitate to this neighbourhood for its distinctly international character – the diverse mix of nationalities and cultures here stands out even in cosmopolitan Geneva. You’ll find an impressive range of dining spots and entertainment venues scattered throughout the area. Getting around is a breeze thanks to excellent public transport.

Family-friendly areas in Geneva

Grottes/Saint-Gervais

Despite being located close to the centre of Geneva, these areas have somewhat of a village feel. Once a working-class district, Grottes/Saint-Gervais owes its survival to the commitment of its inhabitants. With the great sense of community found here, they are brilliant options if you’re looking to raise a family in Geneva. The social mix makes the neighbourhood interesting and rich, with easy walking access to groceries, restaurants, banks, and the lake. Access to good schools is also a drawcard if you’re moving to Geneva with kids.

Champel/Malagnou/Florissant

These areas offer you a peaceful retreat from the pace of daily life in the city. The properties are larger and suitable for families, who make up the majority of the residents. These suburbs are located close to several good schools, making them good options if you’re moving to Geneva with children. The International School of Geneva (Ecolint) and Institut Florimont are among the prestigious international schools in the vicinity, offering bilingual education options for expatriate families.

Cologny

Despite being located quite a distance from Geneva, living here treats you to stunning panoramic views of the city. Properties are large, and the prices reflect this. It’s a good option if you have a family and want your children to have access to open spaces and nature. Cologny offers a tranquil environment while still maintaining good connections to the city centre, making it a popular choice for those who can afford its premium price tag.

Chênes-Bougeries

Chênes-Bougeries is a leafy middle-class area with relatively affordable property. It is another good option if you have children, thanks to its location and proximity to a handful of good international schools. The municipality consists of the town centre and several neighbourhoods, including Grange-Canal, Malagnou, Le Vallon, La Pommière and Conches, as well as newer high-rise developments. Well-connected by public transport with three major roads as well as tram and bus lines.